Rediscovering Magic at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Sometimes, life gifts us moments so profound they leave an indelible mark. For my family, a day at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge became one such cherished experience—a day filled with awe, joy, and deep connection.

Located just 10 miles northeast of Denver, the Refuge offers a tranquil escape into the wild with landscapes and creatures that stir the soul. But for me, this trip meant much more than just a day outdoors. Each moment felt like a rediscovery—an adventure made even more poignant because, after recovering from a stroke and subsequent brain surgery, my memory often feels fragmented. Every visit to this incredible place feels like the first time, and this recent visit with my wife, Chris, and our son, Hayden, was truly unforgettable.

A Morning Full of Promise

To make the most of our experience, we planned carefully. Chris prepared a detailed itinerary to ensure everything went smoothly. “If we leave by 6:30 a.m., we can avoid traffic and enjoy the cooler morning weather,” she said, and she was completely right. The crisp Denver morning held an energizing promise as we made our way to the Refuge, our car buzzing with excited chatter.

One of the best things about this place? Visiting is completely free. Starting our day with such simplicity felt refreshing. For first-time visitors, here’s a pro tip: arrive early. The Refuge’s parking and one-way Wildlife Drive create a smoother experience for those who plan ahead, and getting an early start really lets you soak in the natural calm before the crowds gather.

Hayden, in particular, was looking forward to his opportunity to fish, adding an extra layer of anticipation as we rolled through the Refuge gates.

Wildlife Encounters That Take Your Breath Away

Driving onto the Refuge’s 11-mile Wildlife Drive was like entering another world. There’s something humbling about being surrounded by raw, untamed nature. Within minutes, we encountered something truly extraordinary—bison, and not just at a distance. They were right there, walking between the cars.

We found ourselves in the midst of a herd, their massive forms looming close as they wandered peacefully. It’s one thing to see these incredible animals through the lens of television or photographs, but it’s another experience entirely to witness their sheer size and gentle stride just feet away. My wife and son sat in wonder, watching these magnificent creatures pass by.

“Look at this! They’re so close!” Hayden exclaimed, snapping photos from his seat. Chris chuckled next to him, marveling at the serene yet commanding energy of the bison. As I watched them cross, I felt deeply connected to the timeless rhythm of nature.

For anyone planning a visit, here’s a key tip to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment on the Wildlife Drive—always stay in your vehicle when in bison areas and maintain at least 75 feet of distance. The Refuge staff has done an excellent job of marking routes and posting guidelines, making it easy to explore responsibly. They even offer a podcast that complements the drive with interesting facts about the Refuge and its history.

We also caught glimpses of other wildlife that morning—red foxes darting gracefully through tall prairie grasses and hawks soaring high above the plains. Each sighting felt like a moment of connection, a little gift from the natural world to remind us of its beauty.

A Peaceful Interlude at Lake Mary

After the excitement of encountering the bison, we turned our focus to another activity we’d been looking forward to all morning—fishing. Hayden’s enthusiasm was infectious as we parked near Lake Mary, a serene oasis with waters glittering in the early sunlight.

Fishing here is straightforward and welcoming for all ages. Adults need only a Colorado fishing license (with a minimal fee), while kids under 16 can fish for free. Hayden couldn’t have been more excited to cast his line into the still water, watching the ripples spread across the surface.

Chris and I took a moment to relax on the lake’s edge, soaking in the quiet atmosphere as Hayden attempted to reel in the "big one." While he had some bites, we did not land any fish. But the moments spent fishing together felt priceless. We laughed as he declared he’d give it “one more try” time and again, and those small, joyful moments were worth more than any trophy fish.

For families considering a fishing trip to the Refuge, it’s a great idea to come prepared with your own gear. Early mornings are the best time; the cool air and peaceful surroundings set the tone for an incredible experience.

Immersed in Natural Beauty

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge isn’t just a place for wildlife encounters—it’s a stunning, expansive space that invites visitors to immerse themselves in all kinds of outdoor activities. With more than 20 miles of trails winding through diverse landscapes, the Refuge offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and more. During our visit, we spotted families venturing deep into the trails, taking leisurely strolls with their kids, while others preferred to bike and explore at their own pace.

This time, we stuck mainly to the Wildlife Drive and lakes, but knowing those trails are there gives us even more reason to return again and again. The ability to explore a place so rich with life and scenery, just a short drive from a bustling city, is nothing short of a luxury.

Behind the Scenes: Insights from Megan Klosterman

During our visit, I had the pleasure of speaking with Megan Klosterman, who's been part of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge team for nearly four years. Her dedication to conservation and helping people experience nature was evident right away. “Everyone in the conservation world really loves what they’re doing,” she told me, her enthusiasm shining as she spoke about both the wildlife and the community.

Megan explained that community outreach is central to the Refuge’s mission. The team works hard to connect with those living nearby so everyone has a chance to discover all the Refuge offers: “We do a lot of outreach with the communities that are immediately surrounding the Refuge. There are some people who live right next to the Refuge that don’t know it exists. We’re trying to do better about connecting with people.” They constantly seek feedback and ideas from locals, always looking to serve the community better.

What resonated most with Chris and me was the Refuge’s genuine commitment to accessibility. With my need to stay aware of how I walk and Chris always beside me, sharing the journey and keeping an eye out for each step, the thoughtfully designed paths made a real difference. The ADA-accessible trail around Lake Mary—about 0.7 miles in length—allowed us to move at our own pace, side by side, without worry. We could focus on enjoying the peaceful scenery and each other, rather than feeling anxious about footing or obstacles. Our walks together are special; they’re moments of support, sometimes laughter, and an ongoing reminder of how much we lean on and look out for one another.

Megan also shared how the 11-mile Wildlife Drive, complete with an audio podcast, enriches every visit. The self-guided tour delivers fascinating stories at each marker, bringing alive the Refuge’s history and ecology as you watch bison and prairie dogs roam. As someone who benefits from cues and reminders, I found the podcast made the experience even more accessible and memorable—a gentle guide as Chris and I took in the beauty around us.

Talking to Megan confirmed everything my family and I felt during our visit: this is more than a park—it’s a welcoming sanctuary, thoughtfully created by people who care. From staff expertise to accessible features that allow families like ours to really connect, every detail speaks to the heart of the Refuge.

Reflection and Rediscovery

By the end of the day, I found myself reflecting on what the experience had meant to me. Living with memory challenges because of my health has made life feel uncertain at times, but this day brought me an overwhelming sense of clarity and joy. Watching Hayden’s wonder at the natural world, sharing quiet moments with Chris, and being fully present amidst such beauty—it reminded me of what really matters.

The Refuge is more than a wildlife sanctuary—it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Whether it’s seeing majestic bison up close, enjoying a peaceful morning by the lake, or simply soaking in time with loved ones, this place offers something deeply meaningful for everyone. It’s a space that invites you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with both nature and yourself.

A majestic buffalo standing in the grasslands of Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, embodying the untamed beauty of nature.

If you’re looking for a destination to create lasting memories, plan your visit soon. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge welcomes you to step away from the hustle and into the wild—whether for an hour or an entire day. What you’ll take away goes far beyond photos or souvenirs—it’s an experience that will enrich your life, one moment at a time.

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