Park County explorations — full-day alpine birding for ptarmigan and montane species
Free full-day birding trip to Park County with Denver Audubon. Search alpine tundra for white-tailed ptarmigan and high-elevation montane species. Jul 18, 5:30 AM–4 PM MDT.
Why we picked this
White-tailed ptarmigan are among Colorado's most elusive birds — well-camouflaged, high-elevation year-round residents that require a dedicated alpine search to find. This full-day trip is one of the few guided opportunities to look for them with expert guidance.
Denver Audubon ventures into Park County for a full-day birding expedition targeting white-tailed ptarmigan and the full suite of montane and alpine species that live above treeline. The trip covers high-elevation terrain where habitat changes rapidly with altitude — from subalpine forest with three-toed woodpeckers and pine grosbeaks to open tundra with American pipits, rosy-finches, and the camouflaged ptarmigan.
White-tailed ptarmigan are Colorado’s only year-round alpine bird — small, mottled grouse that turn white in winter and blend almost perfectly into lichen-covered rocks in summer. Finding them requires patience and knowing where to look. Denver Audubon guides lead this trip with knowledge of where ptarmigan have been reliably seen in recent years.
The day starts at 5:30 AM at the Aspen Park RTD Park-N-Ride — the early departure allows time to reach elevation and cover ground before afternoon thunderstorms develop. Participants should be prepared for high-altitude conditions: bring layers, rain gear, sun protection, water, and lunch. This is a more demanding outing than the typical metro bird walk, suited to participants comfortable with hiking at altitude. Free to attend — register for exact trip details and meeting point.