Angel Fire isn’t just a landscape of majestic peaks and alpine air—it’s a vibrant wildlife haven. From elk grazing in the valley to eagles soaring above, wildlife encounters are part of what makes visiting here so special. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious, here’s your guide to spotting elk, bears, birds, and more—along with essential safety tips for enjoying these experiences responsibly.
Scenic Trails with Wildlife Potential
- Sendero del Sol North & South Trails
Looping trails accessible from North Angel Fire Road featuring over 65 species of birds—including hummingbirds, kestrels, and geese—plus small mammals like squirrels and raccoons. Great for beginner-friendly birding. Birding Hot Spots – Sendero del Sol - Angel Fire Back Basin Road
A peaceful roadside loop that attracts nearly 90 species of birds and offers accessible wildlife viewing. Birding Hot Spots – Back Basin Road - Deer, Coyote, Bear, and Bobcat Loop
A moderate 4.9-mile Greenbelt trail behind the Visitor Center. Look for deer, turkey, elk, and prairie dogs—all in shaded, walkable woodland terrain. All Trails – Loop - Monte Verde Lake
A peaceful alpine lake where you can spot ducks, geese, and other waterfowl gliding across the water, with the surrounding pines and mountain backdrop making it a favorite stop for wildlife watching. – Monte Verde Lake
What Wildlife to Look For
- Elk, mule deer, white-tail deer: Frequently seen in late afternoon or early morning grazing along the Valley of the Utes and golf course. Elk numbers are among the highest in the U.S.
- Black bears, bobcats, mountain lions: Occasionally sighted in remote “off-trail” forested zones or during elk calving season. Stay alert. Less common but present.
- Ground squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, raccoons: Over 170 bird species recorded. Spot bald/golden eagles overhead, hummingbirds near wildflowers, and waterfowl at Monte Verde Lake.
- Birds (owls, bald and golden eagles, hummingbirds, kestrels, waterfowl): Eagles and hawks soar above the valley floor and especially near rivers, hummingbirds are seen during summer months when the wildflowers are in full bloom, and spring through fall, you’ll see ducks, geese and other water birds around Monte Verde Lake.
Photography & Birding Tips
- Use a zoom lens or binoculars, especially for photographing distant elk herds or soaring eagles.
- Visit during dawn or dusk, when wildlife is most active and daylight is soft—ideal for both viewing and capturing photos.
Wildlife Viewing Safety & Etiquette
- Go early or late: Wildlife is most active during dawn and dusk.
- Stay quiet and still: Move slowly—animals respond best to stillness, not motion.
- Keep your distance: Use binoculars or a zoom lens; never attempt to approach wildlife.
- Secure your food: Especially in parking areas—animals like bears and raccoons are drawn to unattended food.
- Know what to do if you encounter wildlife:
- Black bear: Stand tall, speak calmly—never run.
- Cougar: Make eye contact, make noise, slowly back away.
- Coyotes: Keep dogs leashed and stay together in groups.
- Follow posted guidelines in parks and trailheads to help protect both wildlife and visitors.
Ready to Explore?
Angel Fire offers the perfect blend of scenic views and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a season, bring your binoculars and curiosity—it won’t take long to uncover hidden wildlife moments in the mountains.