Alamosa
Alamosa, CO 81101-9003
Plan Your Visit
When you plan for a trip to Baca National WildlifeRefuge, wear sturdy shoes for hiking and dress for the weather. Bringing water, food, binoculars, field guides, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and anything else that might make the outdoor experience more enjoyable. Areas throughout the refuge are designated as closed year round to protect migrating waterfowl or for public safety. Maps of these areas are available at the refuge visitor center kiosk.
Directions to the Alamosa Refuge Office and Visitor Center
From the junction of Hwy 17 and 160, drive east on HWY 160 for about 3 miles to El Rancho Lane. Turn right onto El Rancho and drive about 3/4 of a mile to the refuge HQ Office and Visitor Contact Station.
Activities
Featured Species
Get Involved
National wildlife refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community and fish and wildlife by doing what you love. National wildlife refuges partner with volunteers, youth groups, landowners, neighbors, and residents to make a lasting difference. Find out how you can help make American lands healthier.
Services
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of public services including wildlife viewing and photography via the 3-mile Wildlife Drive and multiple nature trails. Hunting for waterfowl, small game, and elk is permitted in specific areas, while fishing is allowed near the Chicago Dam, subject to seasonal closures for endangered species protection. The refuge also provides interpretive panels at the visitor center and offers environmental education programs for organized groups upon request.
About
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1963 to provide food, cover, and breeding habitat for migratory birds and resident wildlife in the high mountain basin of the San Luis Valley. The 12,026-acre refuge consists of diverse habitats including wet meadows, old river oxbows, and riparian corridors along the Rio Grande floodplain. It is managed as part of the San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which also includes Monte Vista and Baca National Wildlife Refuges. These protected lands support over 200 bird species and a variety of resident wildlife such as mule deer, beavers, and coyotes.