Rocky Mountain and Desert Dwellers
The bighorn sheep is Colorado’s official animal. Colorado has the largest population of bighorn in North America, so you have a good chance of spotting one. There are two species in Colorado, the Rocky Mountain which is native and the desert species which was introduced near the Colorado National Monument in 1979.
These sturdy, majestic sheep quickly flee from people. Be prepared for viewing with a good set of binoculars or spotting scope. Hike without your pets, as bighorns see them as a predator and will quickly leave the area.
Where to look
Look for Bighorn Sheep on grassy, south and west facing slopes, especially in the winter since the sun keeps the grass free from snow.
Highway 50 between Canon City & Salida – Bighorn Sheep Canyon. This stretch of highway provides reliable viewing for Bighorns all year long, especially during the winter months. Stop at interpretive waysides at the Arkansas headwaters State Park all along the river. Contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife for more information.
Georgetown – You are almost guaranteed to see Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in this area in November and December when rams migrate down the mountain to clash for mating rights with ewes. Visit the Georgetown Bighorn Sheep Festival the second Saturday in November, stop by the Gateway Visitor Center, or hit the Viewing Station just east of town to catch the sheep in action.
Events
Bighorn Festival
This free event celebrates the fact that our majestic state mammal is often seen within the Colorado Springs city limits! Find out more about the amazing Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep! Look for bighorns using binoculars and scopes, take a guided nature walk that focuses on bighorn sheep, hear presentations about bighorn sheep biology and the Rampart and Pikes Peak herds, take an auto tour through Queens Canyon, and experience a bighorn ‘touch table’.
Georgetown Bighorn Sheep Fest
Celebrate Colorado’s ‘state mammal’—the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. The Town of Georgetown and Colorado Parks and Wildlife offer opportunities to watch and learn about one of Colorado’s oldest bighorn sheep herds. Plus, speakers and short wildlife educational programs for the whole family! Artisans and shop owners in Georgetown will showcase their wildlife related art, gifts, crafts, and other goods.
