Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, Nature reserve in Commerce City, United States.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area near Denver in Colorado, covering thousands of hectares with grasslands, wetlands, and open water. Bison graze across the plains, while deer, coyotes, and migratory birds move through the varied habitats.
This land served as a production site for chemical weapons during World War II and was gradually cleaned and restored over the following decades. The official designation as a wildlife refuge came in 2004, after extensive remediation work was completed.
The visitor center features exhibits showing how native wildlife has returned to this landscape and now thrives in restored grasslands and wetlands. Rangers guide groups through the grounds, explaining how different animals interact and how visitors can spot signs of their presence along the trails.
Several walking routes lead through the area and provide access to different landscapes, while a longer driving route allows visitors to cover larger sections. Fishing is permitted at two lakes during certain months, with local regulations posted on site.
Bald eagles were spotted wintering here in the eighties, prompting the first discussions about permanent protection for the site. Today, several eagle pairs regularly nest in trees along the water bodies.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.