10/12/2026
As it is National Wildlife Refuge week let's take a moment to celebrate Arapaho NWR. The 25,000 acre refuge sits in a 8,200 ft high valley surrounded by 10,000 to 12,000 ft high mountains. It was established in 1967 to provide a nesting, rearing and stop over habitat for migratory birds. Wetland areas and ponds have been developed on the refuge using irrigation water from the Illinois river. The refuge also includes riparian, sagebrush and meadow habitats.
Because of the diverse habitats on the refuge, many species live here: 208 species of birds, 37 species of mammals, 6 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 10 species of fish.
When you visit the refuge you can enjoy bird and wildlife watching, walking our nature trail, scenic drives, fishing and hunting
photo credit Pat Andrews
