One of the unique benefits of staying at one of our vacation rentals in Estes Park is to see the abundance of wildlife in Estes Park as well as the Rocky Mountain National Park. On several occasions we have had the exciting experience of seeing Moose in the park. These impressive animals can be found throughout the National Park, and spotting one in the wild is an unforgettable experience.
I’m not sure how many moose are currently in the park and, from what I have read, it is difficult to measure as they can be pretty elusive despite their large size. I have read different numbers. One article I read said that in 1980, only one moose was reported in the Kawuneeche Valley of the park but in 2017, the park reported 30 to 50 on the west side I think there may be around 2500 in the state.
So where is the best place to see moose in Rocky Mountain National Park? One of the most reliable areas is the Kawuneeche Valley, located on the west side of the park. This wetland area provides a perfect habitat for moose. We have also seen them grazing in the lake at Sprague Lake. We have had best luck seeing them at dawn or dusk when they are most active, but we have also seen them relaxing within forest areas in the middle of the afternoon. Particularly in the summer, they like the forest areas to avoid the heat.
Just a quick note that when observing moose, it’s crucial to keep a safe distance. These animals can be unpredictable and may charge if they feel threatened. These animals can move fast also – up to 35 mph! You do not want to get too close and it can actually be a violation of the law to do so. That being said, by exercising some caution and common sense, you may get the opportunity to see one of these majestic animals in its native habitat. It is an incredible experience! If you are thinking about visiting Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park, please consider staying at one of our vacation homes. Park Entrance Lodge and Lakes Estes Retreat are luxury vacation rentals in Estes Park that have great locations and incredible amenities.
