Sandhill cranes pass through the valley, with Russell Lakes a Saguache County stop

Twice a year the San Luis Valley fills with the rolling calls of sandhill cranes. These tall gray birds stop here on their long migration, resting and feeding in valley fields and wetlands. The crowds peak in spring, usually around early March, with another smaller wave in fall. Most of the Rocky Mountain population of greater sandhill cranes moves through this valley.

Much of the famous viewing is centered on the Monte Vista refuge to the south, but cranes spread across the whole valley, including Saguache County. Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area, north of the Center area along Highway 285, is one Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) property where you may see cranes and waterfowl.

Russell Lakes is a State Wildlife Area, so most visitors age 16 and older need a hunting or fishing license or an SWA pass, and parts of it close during waterfowl seasons. Cranes are most active at dawn and dusk as they move between roosts and feeding fields, so early and late are the best times to watch. Stay in your vehicle or at pullouts, keep your distance, and do not flush the birds into flight.

Migration timing shifts a little each year with the weather. For current viewing spots, access rules, and any closures, check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife sandhill crane and Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area pages.