Animals You May Encounter on Colorado Trails

Many animals, especially large mammals, use hiking trails because they provide clear paths and good visibility. While it’s thrilling to spot wildlife, it’s important to know how to respond if you encounter them. Here are some animals you might see on the trail and tips for staying safe:

Black Bears

• Identification: Smaller than grizzlies, with black, brown, or cinnamon fur.

• Behavior: Typically shy and will avoid humans unless threatened or habituated to food.

• What to Do:

  • Make noise to alert the bear to your presence.

  • If it approaches, stand your ground, wave your arms, and speak firmly.

  • Carry bear spray and know how to use it.

  • Never run; back away slowly if the bear is not advancing.

Bobcats

• Identification: Medium-sized wild cats with tufted ears and a short tail.

• Behavior: Solitary and elusive, rarely pose a threat.

• What to Do:

  • Simply admire from a distance.

  • Do not feed or approach.

Moose

• Identification: Large, dark brown with long legs and a distinctive “bell” under the throat.

• Behavior: Highly unpredictable and can become aggressive, especially mothers with calves.

• What to Do:

  • Stay at least 50 yards away.

  • If it charges, run (like hell) to a tree and behind it.

Wolves

• Identification: Larger than coyotes, with long legs and bushy tails.

• Behavior: Usually avoid humans. Encounters are extremely rare, but factors like habituation to humans (becoming accustomed to people), food availability, and proximity to dens can increase the risk of aggressive behavior.

• What to Do:

  • Stand your ground and make noise.

  • Avoid running or turning your back.

Mountain Lions

• Identification: Large tan cats with long tails.

• Behavior: Rarely seen but can be a threat if they feel cornered or are stalking prey.

• What to Do:

  • Make yourself big and loud.

  • Maintain eye contact and throw objects if necessary.

  • If attacked, fight back aggressively.

  • Always carry bear spray

Coyotes

• Identification: Resemble medium-sized dogs, with grayish-brown fur and bushy tails.

• Behavior: Curious but usually not aggressive; may scavenge for food.

• What to Do:

  • Make noise and wave your arms to scare them off.

  • Keep food and trash secured.

Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep

• Identification: Stocky with large curved horns.

• Behavior: Docile unless provoked, often seen on steep terrain.

• What to Do:

  • Observe from a distance.

  • Avoid approaching or startling them.

Elk

• Identification: Large deer-like animals with impressive antlers on males.

• Behavior: Can be aggressive during mating season (fall).

• What to Do:

  • Stay at least 50 yards away.

  • Do not provoke or get between a male and his harem.

Mountain Goats

• Identification: White fur, stocky build, and short horns.

• Behavior: Often curious but generally harmless unless protecting young.

• What to Do:

  • Avoid getting too close, especially to kids (baby goats).

Mule Deer and White-Tail Deer

• Identification: Mule deer have large ears, while white-tail deer have a bushy white tail.

• Behavior: Skittish but generally non-aggressive.

• What to Do:

  • Enjoy watching from a safe distance.

Desert Bighorn Sheep

• Identification: Similar to Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep but adapted to desert conditions.

• Behavior: Rarely aggressive.

• What to Do:

  • Respect their space.

Pronghorn

• Identification: Tan with white undersides and distinct black markings on the face and neck.

• Behavior: Fast runners but shy and avoid humans.

• What to Do:

  • Watch from a distance.

Rattlesnakes

• Identification: Distinctive rattle at the end of their tail.

• Behavior: Often sunbathe on trails; will rattle as a warning.

• What to Do:

  • Freeze if you hear a rattle, then slowly back away.

  • Watch where you step, especially in rocky or grassy areas.

Personal Encounters

Over the summer and fall, this year, I encountered:

• A mother black bear with two cubs

• A large black bear facing me within 50 yards and moving towards me

• A mountain lion

• A mother moose with a baby

• Elk

• Deer

• A coyote carrying a large animal leg

• Four coyotes together

• Two rattlesnakes

• Two coyotes or wolves attacking an Elk and taking it off a cliff

Hiking Safely

When hiking alone, I always carry:

• Bear spray for unexpected encounters.

• A noise canister to alert animals to my presence.

Tips for Wildlife Encounters

• Be Loud and Big: Raise your arms, wave them, and make noise to appear larger.

• Throw Something: Stones or sticks can help scare off aggressive animals.

• Don’t Turn Your Back: Avoid crouching down or running. Back away slowly while facing the animal.

• Fight Back if Attacked: Use rocks, sticks, or whatever you can to defend yourself.