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The Rocky Mountain Arsenal Safari offers a unique chance to see urban wildlife in Denver, Colorado. This 2.5-hour tour takes place aboard the Roaming Bison, a specially designed safari vehicle with a pop-top roof for 360-degree wildlife viewing. The tour is run by The Wild Source, known for their private, year-round excursions into the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.
This experience stands out for its fully outfitted vehicle with window seats and high-quality binoculars and spotting scope to enhance wildlife spotting. The climate-controlled vehicle ensures comfort regardless of Colorado’s unpredictable weather, and the expert guide doubles as your driver and wildlife specialist. This tour is particularly suited for nature lovers who want an intimate, accessible encounter with local animals like bison, bald eagles, coyotes, and possibly the endangered Black-footed ferret.
While the tour is private and tailored to your schedule, it’s essential to note that start times vary seasonally—typically around 3 hours before sunset—and early morning options are available for photographers. The cost is not detailed but includes all amenities, refreshments, and equipment to maximize wildlife observation.
Key Points
- Duration of 2.5 hours provides a focused wildlife experience without feeling rushed
- Private group tours ensure personalized attention and flexible timing
- Fully outfitted vehicle features pop-top roof, window seats, and climate control for comfort and optimal viewing
- Expert wildlife guide offers insights into over 330 species including bison, bald eagles, and prairie dogs
- Year-round tours operate in any weather, with high-quality binoculars and a spotting scope onboard for better wildlife sightings
- Departure from the Pat Schroeder Visitor Center with a brief safety briefing and welcome refreshments
Starting Point at Pat Schroeder Visitor Center
The safari begins at the Pat Schroeder Visitor Center, where guests receive a short safety briefing and welcome refreshments. This meeting spot serves as the hub for the adventure, providing a comfortable space to gather before heading into the 15,000-acre wildlife refuge.
The center’s location makes it easy to access from Denver, just 10 miles away, and provides all necessary information for the upcoming guided tour. The brief introduction ensures everyone is prepared for the safety protocols and suitable clothing for Colorado’s weather.
The Custom Roaming Bison Safari Vehicle
The Roaming Bison is a highlight of this safari, modeled after African safari vehicles. Its design includes a pop-top roof that can be opened for full 360-degree views, perfect for photography and wildlife spotting.
Inside, there are six upgraded bucket seats with adjustable tracks, ensuring everyone has a window view—a significant advantage over traditional tours with back seats or obstructed windows. The vehicle’s climate control with front and rear heat and A/C makes it suitable for any season.
Plus, onboard features like high-quality binoculars, a spotting scope, and a refrigerator to keep drinks cold make the experience both comfortable and practical. The padded lip on the window rails allows for bean bags or camera mounts, aiding in wildlife photography.
Guided Wildlife Viewing Along the 11-Mile Wildlife Drive
The tour follows the 11-mile Wildlife Drive within the Rocky Mountain Arsenal. This route offers constant opportunities to see iconic animals like bison, deer, prairie dogs, and various birds such as bald eagles, hawks, and waterfowl.
Seasonal highlights include burrowing owls nesting in prairie dog burrows and migratory birds. The guide’s insights help guests identify and understand each species, making the drive both educational and engaging.
Wildlife activity peaks at dusk, influencing the timing of the departures to maximize animal sightings. The safari typically includes two full loops of the route, depending on sightings, with opportunities to pause and observe at key spots.
The Expertise of Your Wildlife Guide
Your seasoned guide from The Wild Source acts as both host and wildlife expert. They share knowledge about mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish found in the refuge, making the experience insightful for both casual nature lovers and avid birders.
The guides are prepared to answer questions, point out species, and explain behaviors, enriching the educational value of the safari. Their local expertise ensures you get the most out of every wildlife sighting, even in Colorado’s variable weather.
Seasonal and Weather Considerations
Tours operate year-round, allowing visitors to experience the refuge in any weather condition. The climate-controlled vehicle ensures comfort during snow, rain, or heat.
Timing is adapted seasonally, with departures typically scheduled around early evening to coincide with peak wildlife activity at dusk. For photographers, early morning tours can be arranged, offering great lighting and less crowded conditions.
Guests are advised to dress in layers, bring a pen and paper or sketchpad for notes, and carry a reusable water bottle. The tour provides light snacks and soft drinks, but bringing additional personal snacks is optional.
What’s Included in the Price
The tour’s included amenities encompass the fully outfitted safari vehicle, expert guide, binoculars, spotting scope, refreshments, and safety briefing. These elements combine to create a comfortable, educational, and flexible wildlife experience.
Guests can reserve their spot with full flexibility, as the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later options. The private group format ensures a personalized experience tailored to your interests.
Accessibility and Practical Tips
The Roaming Bison is designed to accommodate most guests with its climate control and adjustable seats. However, guests should be prepared for seasonal weather and bring appropriate clothing.
Bringing binoculars and a camera enhances the experience, especially during peak wildlife hours. The padded window rails allow for camera stabilization, making it easier to capture animals in their natural habitat.
The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive wildlife encounter without a lengthy commitment, while the private group setup offers a more intimate experience.
The Sum Up: Denver’s Best Urban Wildlife Safari
The Rocky Mountain Arsenal Safari provides a convenient, engaging, and well-equipped way to explore Colorado’s urban wildlife. The combination of a custom safari vehicle, expert guide, and year-round operation makes this tour a top choice for wildlife enthusiasts and photography lovers alike.
This experience is especially suited for those who value personalized attention and flexibility—with private tours that fit your schedule. The guided insights make the drive both informative and entertaining, ensuring every wildlife sighting feels special.
While the cost isn’t specified, the included amenities, equipment, and personalized guide create a solid value for a half-day wildlife adventure. If you’re eager for a close-up look at Denver’s local animals in a comfortable and educational setting, this safari is a worthy choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Safari?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including safety briefing and the wildlife drive.
What should I bring on the safari?
Guests are recommended to bring binoculars, a camera, layers for weather, a pen or sketchpad, and a reusable water bottle. Light snacks and drinks are provided but can be supplemented.
Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, the tour operates year-round. The vehicle is climate-controlled, offering comfort regardless of Colorado’s weather.
What animals might I see during the tour?
Expect to see bison, bald eagles, coyotes, mule deer, white-tailed deer, prairie dogs, and seasonal animals like burrowing owls and possibly the endangered Black-footed ferret.
Can I join an early morning tour for photography?
Early morning departures are available upon request, especially for photographers seeking ideal lighting.
How do I reserve my spot?
Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.