Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

A 15,000-acre wildlife sanctuary northeast of Denver contains diverse habitats supporting more than 330 species including bison, deer, coyotes, and migratory birds.

The land transformed from a World War II chemical weapons facility to a protected wildlife area through extensive environmental restoration efforts completed in 2004.

Educational programs at the visitor center introduce guests to conservation practices while ranger-led tours explain the relationships between native species and their habitats.

The refuge offers 20 miles of hiking trails, seasonal fishing at Lake Mary and Lake Ladora, and an 11-mile wildlife drive through different ecosystems.

The discovery of bald eagle winter roosts in 1986 initiated the transformation of this former military site into one of the largest urban wildlife refuges.

Location: Colorado

Inception: 1992

Operator: United States Fish and Wildlife Service

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/rocky_mountain_arsenal

GPS coordinates: 39.83330,-104.84200

Latest update: May 27, 2025 11:33