On the Yampa River and the Green River, the range extends from calm river trips to Class V whitewater. Moffat County thus offers very different perspectives on its rivers: you can take in the quieter side of the water or opt for a much more challenging whitewater experience. The protected areas also show how nature experiences and conservation coexist here.
Rivers and Protected Areas
Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge covers 12,150 acres. It was established to protect migratory birds and endangered and threatened species, while also providing nature-based recreational opportunities. Only non-motorized boats and watercraft are permitted on the Green River within the refuge. Gravel boat ramps are located at the Swinging Bridge and Crook campgrounds; check current conditions there before visiting.
If you prefer exploring on foot rather than on the water, the refuge has a 1-mile walking trail. It starts at the administration parking lot, follows Beaver Creek and loops around the remains of the McKnight Homestead. The loop combines a walk along the creek with a historical connection, without requiring a longer hike. Fishing is also permitted year-round on the Green River and Beaver Creek. Check the applicable regulations before your outing.
The region’s birding areas offer another perspective on its rivers. Around 295 bird species occur in Moffat County. Migratory birds are also among the reasons Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge was established; wildlife watching and the protection of sensitive species are therefore defining nature themes of the destination.
Canyon Views and Trails
For views across the canyon landscape, Harpers Corner Road leads to overlooks and a 2-mile round-trip scenic hike. The Harpers Corner Trail runs along the upper canyon rim and offers impressive views.
Gates of Lodore is the northernmost entrance to Dinosaur National Monument and is reached via Highway 318.
History and Living Traditions
The Jarvie Homestead was first settled in 1880 and historically reconstructed near Browns Park. The site includes the original earth house, a blacksmith shop, a store, a cemetery and a museum. Its various features reveal different aspects of daily life in the past: living and working, trade and community life come together in a historical setting.
The Wyman Museum also brings together buildings with different functions. These include a hay barn, a working blacksmith shop, the Pagoda Store and a one-room schoolhouse. Agriculture, crafts, trade and education thus appear side by side as different aspects of everyday life. At Whittle the Wood, chainsaw artists carve tree stumps into works of art during a three-day event. The event has grown annually over more than two decades; you can check dates and the specific format before planning your trip.
Wildlife Watching and Planning Your Trip
In the region, Sand Wash Basin offers an accessible way to responsibly observe wild mustangs. Where the herds are found varies, so a sighting at any particular location is not guaranteed.
The roads in Sand Wash Basin are also part of practical trip planning: they consist of graded gravel roads and two-track trails. In wet or snowy conditions, the roads can become slippery or impassable. Moffat County also has numerous camping options, from basic sites to those with additional facilities. When choosing accommodation, you can first consider what kind of nature experience and camping style best suit your trip plans.
Discover more destinations: Craig, Sedgwick County, Larimer, Custer, Alamosa County, Prowers County, Summit, Lake County
For the main travel overview: Colorado.
