Fall has its perks, but spring is truly special. With the trees still bare, it’s prime time for spotting Great Horned owlets peeking out from hollow trunks or rocky ledges. Migrating Bald Eagles are easy to track against the drab winter palette, and even the hawks that braved the cold all winter become “easy prey” for your camera lens.
But here’s the real secret: You have access to one of the greatest resources that has been witnessing the Central Flyway for over 50 years! Adventures Out West (AOW) can help you make the most of your time out west. 
How Our Guides Assist Birders and Twitchers
After leading thousands of tours, AOW guides know exactly where the feathered superstars stop to rest. They’re also ready for the “tough” questions.
For instance, why is there a Canada Goose nesting 100 feet up on the Kissing Camels rock?
The Answer: That’s “Queenie.” Well, likely Queenie’s great-great-granddaughter. It’s unusual behavior, but if you had to sit on an egg for 28 days, wouldn’t you want a world-class view, too?
(Disclaimer: We aren’t scientists—we’re “observationists” with a passion for the trail!)
The local hawk population, or passerines (perching birds), that our guides will love to point out, will most likely be Red-tail, Ospreys, or Ferruginous Hawks. They do not migrate and are most often seen making their home even in residential areas. Nine varieties of hawks call the Front Range home.
Spring’s Greatest Hits
- Mountain Bluebird: Our favorite messenger. Arriving in early March, they prove spring is here. (Take that, Punxsutawney Phil.)
Western Tanager: A vibrant splash of color that sticks to the lower elevations (below 7,000 feet).
- Sandhill Cranes: The true showstoppers. Look for their massive, noisy flocks stopping to rest in shallow creek beds and mountain lakes.
- American Dipper: If your tour heads through Cheyenne Canyon, keep an eye on the water. These birds love fast-moving mountain streams and are completely unfazed by icy snowmelt.
The April’s Arrival
As April blooms, we welcome back the nectar and seed seekers. Keep your eyes peeled for the iridescent Broad-tailed Hummingbirds and the bright American Goldfinches.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
American Gold Finch
Strategic Spots: Where We Take You
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Garden of the Gods (Jeep, Segway, Bike, Hike):
Our guides will point out the White-throated Swifts and Rock Wrens that nest among the towering red spires. It’s also a hotspot for hawks and the occasional owl.
White-throated Swift
Rock Wren
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Cheyenne Canyon & Stagecoach Road (Jeep, E-Bike, or Hike):
This route is perfect for spotting Canyon Wrens, Mountain Bluebirds, Steller’s Jays, and Mountain Chickadees.
Steller’s Jay
Mountain Jay
Canyon Wren
Mountain Chickadee
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Pikes Peak: (Jeep, E-Bike):
Strap in because as you ascend to 14,115, have your camera ready.
This is where you will most likely see the EAGLES, Bald and Golden, in migrating groups or a “jubilee” because you will be driven to Crystal Creek Reservoir along your journey, which is a perfect food source.
The “Expert Edge”: Why Adventure Out West?
Our guides understand the microhabitats birds love, from riparian and alpine zones to scrub oak thickets. We know where they hide, which means you’re more likely to snag that perfect photo.
Plus, we take the pressure off. We handle the driving and navigation while tossing in some “spicy” local lore to keep things fun.
Ready to see the sky’s most colorful travelers? Book your tour now while the branches are bare, and the views are wide open!
A fellow “Bird Nerd”,