Pawnee National Grassland - Grover, CO
N 40° 48.169 W 104° 00.858
13T E 583146 N 4517335
This grassland in northeastern Colorado provides many recreational opportunities such as wildlife and bird watching, hiking, camping and shooting.
Waymark Code: WMH6P8
Location: Colorado, United States
Date Posted: 05/31/2013
Views: 10
Like a snapshot from history, much of the 193,060 acres of the Pawnee National Grassland remains in the same condition as it did 100 years ago. It is easy to picture Native Americans chasing herds of buffalo or imagine a family traveling across the landscape in covered wagon. However, the grasslands also display signs of modern life from "nodding donkeys" pumping oil deep underground to tall wind turbines transforming the blustery winds into electricity.
Especially popular among bird lovers, the grassland is home to a wide variety of birds such as Colorado's state bird—the Lark Bunting. Other species unique to the prairie include the mountain plover, burrowing owl, falcons and other birds of prey. Spring and fall migrations are a great time to see plenty of birds. Other wildlife in the grasslands include pronghorn, mule deer, coyote, fox, snakes and prairie dogs.
The Pawnee Buttes are a key feature in the heart of the grassland. Rising 300 feet above the surrounding landscape, these two pillars served as landmarks to early travelers. A 2 mile trail leads to the base of the Buttes but certain areas are closed from March to June to protect nesting raptors. More information can be found on the recreation website [visit link].
Crow Valley Recreation Area provides additional recreational opportunities including camping, hiking and picnic areas. A 36 mile auto tour begins just north of the area and provides information throughout on the various bird species found within the grassland.
Source: Pawnee National Grassland, Colorado.com