Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a melting pot of wildlife! As winter arrives, you may wonder if you’ll get to see the large and small creatures within the park. Some birds indeed migrate to warmer areas, and bears hibernate till spring. But plenty of animals still thrive as the snow blankets the mountains! Get ready to strap on your snowshoes and feast your eyes on the RMNP winter wildlife.
Coyotes
Coyotes thrive through the winter in Rocky Mountain National Park. Coyotes don’t have many smaller mammals to hunt during winter and tend to make more giant creatures their prey. Typically, you can spot a pack in the open valley of Moraine Park.
Elk
Elk herds have a grand population in the Estes Park area. While hiking through the park, you will likely spot one in the distance resting in the snow. They’re also a common sight when roaming around Estes Park! They come down from the mountains during the coldest time of Winter for a warmer shelter.
Wild Turkeys
Wild turkeys are year-round residents in Rocky Mountain National Park! Winter provides them with plenty of insects to snack on. They can be seen regularly during winter when hiking, especially around Bear Lake!
Pikas
You must keep your eyes peeled to see these tiny creatures during winter! They take refuge high up in the trees and stock up on food to last until spring. A common place to find them is on the Flattop Mountain trail. If you can’t see them, you’ll definitely hear them!
Bighorn Sheep
Elk and the rare moose aren’t the only horned creatures near Estes Park! Bighorn Sheep also reside in our Rocky Mountain nature. When visiting the Rocky Mountain National Park, you can see a herd resting near the Sheep Lakes on the Horseshoe Park trail. As winter ends, you’ll likely see lambs following their mothers while they hunt for scrumptious rock salt and minerals.
Stay at Valhalla Resort
Enjoy the Estes Park winter wildlife with a stay at Valhalla Resort. Our budget-friendly resort features comfortable cabins ranging from small, one-bedroom homes to large, four-bedroom rentals. Each is equipped with full kitchens, fireplaces, cable TV, and private decks with grills, all with cozy mountain decor and the comforts of home.
When booking your cabin, it is always best to book directly with us to get the best rate guaranteed and the best in customer service. And while we offer affordable rates year-round, be sure to always take a look at our lodging specials!