Quick Info
Main attraction: Sandhill crane migration. Peak times: Mid-March, October. Refuges: Alamosa NWR, Monte Vista NWR. Crane numbers: 20,000+ during peak migration. Entry: Free.
The San Luis Valley hosts one of Colorado's great wildlife spectacles—the sandhill crane migration. Each spring and fall, tens of thousands of cranes rest in the valley's wetlands during their journey between wintering grounds and northern breeding areas.
Two national wildlife refuges—Alamosa and Monte Vista—protect critical wetland habitat in this otherwise arid landscape. The combination of irrigated farmland, natural wetlands, and isolation makes this a birding destination of national significance.
Sandhill Crane Migration
Spring Migration
Peak numbers occur mid-March. Cranes arrive from wintering grounds in New Mexico and rest in the valley before continuing north. The Monte Vista Crane Festival celebrates the arrival each March.
Numbers: 20,000+ cranes during peak days. The sound of thousands of cranes calling is unforgettable.
Fall Migration
October brings cranes returning south. Numbers are similar to spring but spread over more time. Less crowded than spring.
Best Viewing
Early morning and late afternoon are best. Cranes leave roost sites at dawn to feed in fields, returning at dusk. Monte Vista NWR's auto tour route provides excellent access.
Wildlife Refuges
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
East of Alamosa along the Rio Grande. Wetlands and riparian habitat. Auto tour route, walking trails, and observation platforms. Good for waterfowl and songbirds year-round.
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge
South of Monte Vista, about 20 miles from Alamosa. Primary crane viewing area. 2.5-mile auto tour route through wetlands and grain fields.
Blanca Wetlands
BLM-managed wetlands northeast of Alamosa. Less developed but good birding. Best in spring and fall.
Other Wildlife
Waterfowl: Ducks, geese, and shorebirds use the refuges during migration. Spring and fall offer best variety.
Raptors: Eagles, hawks, and owls year-round. Bald eagles winter in the valley.
Elk: The valley's edges support elk herds, especially near the mountains.
Pronghorn: Visible in open valley floor year-round.
Monte Vista Crane Festival
Held annually in mid-March during peak crane migration. Guided tours, speakers, photography workshops, and community events. Book lodging early—the festival draws birders from across the country.
Tips
Bring binoculars. Essential for crane viewing and birding. Spotting scopes help for distant observation.
Time your visit. Crane numbers build through March. Check with refuges for current counts.
Stay in your vehicle. On auto tour routes, your car acts as a blind. Cranes tolerate vehicles but flush from pedestrians.
Dress warmly. March mornings in the valley are cold. Wind is common.
Respect the birds. Don't approach roosting cranes. Keep your distance and enjoy the spectacle.
Frequently Asked Questions
When exactly do the cranes arrive?
First birds appear late February. Numbers build through March, peaking mid-month. Most have moved north by late March.
Are the refuges open year-round?
Yes, though some areas may close seasonally for wildlife management. Auto tour routes are generally accessible year-round.
Is the Crane Festival worth attending?
If you're interested in birds, absolutely. Organized tours access private land and optimal viewing spots. The community atmosphere is welcoming.
Can I photograph the cranes?
Yes—bring a telephoto lens. Best light is early morning and late afternoon. Auto tour routes allow shooting from your vehicle.
What else can I see?
The refuges have diverse birdlife beyond cranes. Over 200 species recorded. Spring migration brings warblers, shorebirds, and waterfowl.