Bird Watching and Wildlife In Alamosa

Out of the 500 bird species native to Colorado, over 300 can be found in San Luis Valley—and they’re not just visiting for the views. Our valley acts as one of North America’s most significant stopovers for migratory bird species as they make their way back and forth across the Central Flyway, which spans between Canada’s Boreal Forest to Mexico’s Highlands. While both ends of the Central Flyway are paramount to the bird’s breeding and wintering seasons, finding a consistently favorable stopover in between is integral for these weary travelers to find some rest after a long flight.

This stopover is mutually beneficial to the health of our ecosystems as these migratory birds distribute key nutrients, balance the food chain, and strengthen local biodiversity. The end result? The San Luis Valley becomes a more inviting place for a wide range of wildlife making it an outstanding destination for nature lovers. In addition to the waterfowl, sandhill cranes, great blue herons and numerous other migratory birds that frequent the area, there’s a long-list of residential avian species that can be spotted regularly.

Top Locations Near Alamosa to Find Wildlife

Explore the best wildlife viewing spaces the San Luis Valley has to offer.

San Luis Valley National Wildlife Complex

With over 199,000 acres to explore, the Alamosa, Monte Vista, and Baca Wildlife Refuges offer some of the best bird and wildlife watching in the San Luis Valley. Each refuge features diverse habitats and stunning landscapes.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve offers an outstanding wildlife watching venue in itself, packed with layers of naturally diverse ecosystems spanning dunefield to alpine tundra. Over 250 bird species have been identified within the park alone.

San Luis Lakes State Park

San Luis Lakes is a state park offering a wide variety of recreation and wildlife viewing all in one. With close proximity to the Great Sand Dunes, visitors can camp, fish, and even motorboat (conditions permitting) on the lake while enjoying the vast views of the valley.

Get inspired for your wildlife viewing trip:

Whether it’s your first time out or you’re an avid nature lover, being a responsible traveler helps protect yourself and our outdoor spaces. Click the buttons below to uncover tried and true wildlife viewing tips.