Friends of the San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuges presents the The 2025 Wildlife Safaris Series. 

Take a trek with local experts to the Alamosa, Baca, and Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuges. There is also a popular visit to a local state wildlife area.

Safaris are free and appropriate for the novice as well as experienced adventurers. All ages are welcome, and no reservations are required. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Bring binoculars (we have loaners), a camera, water, hat, sunscreen and your curiosity.

For more information, contact Evert Brown at 307-315-8003; or Suzanne Beauchaine, 719-588-3473.

March 22 

8:30 a.m.-noon
Alamosa NWR Visitor Center
Guide: Suzanne Beauchaine
Wintering bald eagles, spring migration and water management at Alamosa NWR. Driving and some walking.

April 12

9-11 a.m.
Smith Reservoir
Guide: John Rawinski
Birding at Smith Reservoir for a half day. CPW Wildlife Stamp is required. Meet at north entrance/boat ramp. Mostly walking on variable terrain, some driving.

April 19

8:30 a.m.-noon
Monte Vista NWR Office
Guide: Suzanne Beauchaine
Behind the scenes at Monte Vista NWR – Spring migration and recent restoration projects. Driving and some walking.

May 17

8:30 a.m.-noon
Alamosa NWR Visitor Center
Guide: Evert Brown
Birding expedition along the Rio Grande. A driving birding tour from the refuge headquarters to the bluffs. We will stop to talk about plants with partners from the CoNPS.

May 24 

8 a.m.-noon
Monte Vista NWR Office
Guide: Tim Armstrong
Birding at Monte Vista NWR. Meet at the Visitor’s Center. Drive your own car and bring a friend.

May 31

8:30 a.m. to noon
Toivo-Malm Trailhead
Guide: Lisa Clements
A birding hike along the Malm Trail. Two miles, walking on variable terrain. Park at the trailhead.

June 7

8:30 a.m.-noon
Toivo-Malm Trailhead
Guide: Lisa Clements
A birding hike along the Malm Trail. Two miles, walking on variable terrain. Park at the trailhead.

June 14

9 a.m.-noon
Baca NWR
Guide: Ty Benally
Hike the Baca Refuge’s Nature and Heritage Trail. A birding and ecology trek. Meet at the Crestone Kiosk. Mostly walking on variable terrain.

July 5

8:30 a.m.-noon
Monte Vista NWR Office
Guide: Suzanne Beauchaine
It’s all about birds and water, behind the scenes at Monte Vista NWR – Colonial nesting waterbirds and current restoration projects. Driving and some walking.