Wildlife Viewing

Do you yearn to see birds in their natural habitats?

Over 66 million Americans are now actively engaged in wildlife viewing, and you are likely to see wildlife in Colorado wherever you look. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has a website, http://www.coloradobirdingtrail.com, designed to help people discover all kinds of wildlife.

The State has more than 400 bird species and in the Carbondale area you can find wildlife while participating in other activities, such as hiking, biking, sightseeing, or fishing.

Heading to the mountains or valleys to watch wildlife is fun and you can see deer, black bears, eagles, and an infinity of birds just around the corner. Taking a stroll to see the local wildlife is a great way to wrap up a family outing, relax or get exercise. Carbondale also is the home for the Roaring Fork Conservancy and for the Audubon Society that organizes several bird watching trips around the Valley.

Everyone can watch wildlife, regardless of age or physical ability. It doesn't require a 10-mile backpack into the wilderness. In fact, some of the best viewing experiences are from the car. Carbondale also is the gateway for the West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway, considered one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S.

Destinations for Hiking

Red Hill/Mushroom Rock
Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking,
Right at the intersection of Highway 82 and 133, is a local's favorite for a quick lunch break hike with the dog, or a challenging mountain bike trail system.  The Red Hill Recreation Area is... read more
The Crown Trails
Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking,
Single-and double-track through scrub oak and sage. ... read more
Thompson Creek Trail
Activities: Climbing, Hiking,
This short, but scenic trail is tucked away in Thompson Creek area West of Carbondale. The trail follows Thompson Creek and is great for a short hike, trail run, or a sport climbing escape as there ar... read more
Mount Sopris
Activities: Hiking,
A must-do for anyone looking to spend the day hiking to the best view in the valley. This 13 mile hike is as tough as any 14er, complete with lakes, rock fields, and false summits. ... read more
Sunlight Mountain
Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Skiing, Snowshoeing, XC Skiing,
Sunlight ski area offers great hiking in the summer to the summit. In the winter, a local's favorite is a evening escape via snowshoe or AT skis to the summit.  ... read more