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About this trip
A Collaboration Trip with The Birdwatchers Store & Front Range Birding Company. Colorado’s varied topography makes it special and a haven for birders of all levels. The Great Plains cover the eastern part of the state. The Rocky Mountains bisect the state from north to south and the Colorado Plateau covers much of the western side. This diversity of habitats, from expansive plains to majestic peaks, provides habitat for a rich array of bird species. placing Colorado in the Top 10 States for number of birds recorded.
This 5-day itinerary showcases avian hotspots within a short drive from Denver. It’s scheduled during May prime time when migration and the beginning of breeding season intersect creating dynamic birding opportunities. We’ll travel in a custom American safari van with a conversion pop-top and spacious seating. This is not the traditional passenger van you may have traveled in on past trips. This one-of-a-kind vehicle has been specially designed by two wildlife biologists to allow for optimal viewing. It makes a perfect ‘blind’ and there’s ample room for everyone to view at the same time. Whether you’re a beginner or master birder, this trip is sure to please. Join The Birdwatchers Store and Reefs to Rockies for the first annual East Meets West – Plains to Peaks birding and wildlife adventure in Colorado.
Expedition Leader
Chip Clouse is a long-time bird tour leader and Reefs to Rockies’ Lead Naturalist Guide. He’s also ProStaff for Opticron optics. Originally enamored with tooth and claw predators, his fascination with birds started by volunteering with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to monitor Peregrine Falcon nest sites. The “Bird Bug” was cemented once he saw his first Western Tanager while working for the Peregrine Fund in Oregon. Chip’s career includes 20+ years of bird research and project management experience in nine states and the Caribbean nation of Grenada, a Masters in Conservation Biology from Colorado State University, five years with the American Birding Association, four years as an optics and accessory rep, and stints guiding at 15+ US birding festivals. He’s excited to share his love of Colorado birds, habitats and natural history on this trip.
What’s included
- AccommodationsDouble Occupancy
- Private transportationStarting and ending at Denver International Airport (DEN) in the Roaming Bison Safari Vehicle
- Expedition LeaderChip Clouse
- Guided ActivitiesDaily guided birding with spotting scope available
- Entrance fees
- Meals as listed4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners
- GratuitiesYour trip cost includes gratuities for your guide, as well as at restaurants for included meals.
What’s not included
- Flights
- Meals not listedLunch on Day 1 and Dinner on Day 3
- Pre- or post- hotels
- Optional gratuities
- Personal items
- Activities not listed
- Travel insurance
Available Packages
Available options
Itinerary
Early afternoon arrival to Denver International Airport. Our first birding stop is Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, a 15,000-acre wildlife hotspot that offers diverse habitats with views of Downtown Denver and the Front Range as a backdrop. Our safari vehicle offers a unique wildlife experience as we explore the Arsenal in our pop-top vehicle in search of plains icons including Burrowing Owl, Western Meadowlark, Lark Bunting, sparrows, bison, coyote, and black-tailed prairie dog.
Accommodations: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Broomfield
Meals: Dinner
Plan to arrive to Denver International Airport (DEN) by 2 pm today.