One of the best things about wildlife viewing in Aspen is how easy it is. We are one among many species here, surrounded, right out the front door of our mountain town lodge, you may see a deer or bear walk by. It’s important to always keep a safe distance from the animals. Remembering never try feeding or petting them, never chase or harass them for selfie vanity, will ensure you and the wildlife stay safe and healthy. We’ve listed some of the big attractions but it’s not until you learn to see the little ones that you will begin to see the great ones. Living in close proximity with wildlife allows for great opportunity to learn about the natural world, but it also means we have a responsibility to recognize that we are only one species in an area that is home to many.

    Moose

    Notoriously cantankerous and equally elusive, moose can sometimes be spotted in our parks and preserves. Wherever you spot them, enjoy them from afar. This old bull was sadly put down due to a foolish encounter. Turning and running is the best option when encountering a moose. Get away from the situation as soon as possible, and try to avoid contact. Unlike mountain lions and bears, moose are not easily spooked, and they do not fear humans.

    Black Bears Around Aspen

    Black bears around Aspen have become quite comfortable coming into town and neighborhoods in search of food during late night and early morning hours. Although black bear are typically passive, they are still wild animals and remain very dangerous. This amazing creature escorted my family down the drive as they came came home one evening.

    Eagle

    ACES iconic golden eagle resident of 38 years, died this past year but seeing them in the wild is rewarding in its own right. For any bird lover, the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies offers wonderful bird watching adventures spotting high elevation inhabitants from raptors to hummingbirds and have educated countless generations over the years.

    Elk Migration

    One of nature's truly incredible phenomenon happens in Aspen annually, as multiple different Elk herds pass through. These herds, numbering in the hundreds, spend summers feasting in the high mountain meadows, at times near the Maroon Bells, then migrate down valley. The majestic bugles are a primal experience everyone should experience.

    Red Fox

    The sly fox ventures down from Ajax Mountain into town early mornings, leaving their tracks in the snow as they meander about. In the wild, you'll be much more likely to be seen than to see them yourself. Up in the Maroon Bells meadows, they have become quite opportunistic, showing little inhibition to the masses of people flowing through their environment. Either way, it is a special treat to see these animals in the wild.

    Mountain Goat

    These majestic beacons in the high mountains are a treasure to see although they occupy a unique and controversial position in the world of Colorado wildlife. Nevertheless, the gullible high mountain explorer will inevitably be told these beasts like to kick rocks down to tumble upon climbers below, so wear head gear.