Discover Moffat County

Moffat County combines vast natural landscapes with rivers, canyon views and unusual cultural attractions. Those looking for a vacation rental or holiday home for a varied stay can shape their trip around very different experiences: quiet trails and wildlife observation, excursions to historic sites or river trips ranging from gentle stretches to Class V whitewater.

Nature Experiences at Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge covers 12,150 acres. It was established to protect migratory birds, endangered and threatened species, and to provide nature-based recreational opportunities. Around 295 bird species occur in Moffat County – a remarkable indication for anyone who wants to experience the landscape and wildlife attentively.

A specific way to access the landscape is the 1-mile walking trail in Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge. It begins at the administration parking lot, follows Beaver Creek and loops around the remains of the McKnight Homestead. Those who prefer to travel on the water will find a clear rule on the Green River: only non-motorized boats and watercraft are permitted there. Access for boating includes gravel boat ramps at the Swinging Bridge and Crook campgrounds. Fishing is also permitted year-round in the refuge on the Green River and Beaver Creek.

Rivers, Canyons and Remarkable Landscapes

The Yampa River is one of America’s last free-flowing rivers. On the Yampa River and the Green River, options range from calm river trips to Class V whitewater. River outfitters offer one- and multi-day rafting trips. This makes it easy to decide in advance what kind of trip you want: Should the river primarily be experienced as a peaceful scenic backdrop, or is a demanding whitewater adventure the main focus?

The canyon landscape also offers different ways to explore it. Harpers Corner Road leads to canyon viewpoints and a 2-mile panoramic hike designed as an out-and-back route. The Harpers Corner Trail runs along the upper canyon rim and opens up impressive views. Gates of Lodore is the northernmost entrance to Dinosaur National Monument and is reached via Highway 318.

When visiting Sand Wash Basin, the condition of the roads should be part of your daily planning. The roads consist of paved gravel roads and two-track roads that can become slippery or impassable in wet conditions or snow. At the same time, Sand Wash Basin is an easily accessible place to observe free-roaming mustangs responsibly.

History, Crafts and Regional Stories

The Wyman Museum brings past everyday life to life through various buildings and workplaces. The site includes a hay barn, a working blacksmith shop, the Pagoda Store and a one-room schoolhouse. The historically reconstructed Jarvie Homestead is also located near Browns Park. It was first settled in 1880; the site includes the original dugout, a blacksmith shop, a store, a cemetery and a museum.

Another side of regional culture is showcased by Whittle the Wood. During the three-day event, chainsaw artists carve tree stumps into unique works of art. The event has grown annually for more than two decades and adds a distinctive handcrafted accent to the nature experiences.

Which Accommodation Suits Your Travel Plans?

When searching for accommodation in Moffat County, it is worth determining your desired priorities first. For wildlife observation and quiet trails, Browns Park, Beaver Creek and the opportunities on the Green River are the main attractions. Those planning canyon views and an excursion to Dinosaur National Monument should consider Harpers Corner and the access road to Gates of Lodore. For active days, the rivers and the rafting trips on offer are additional options, while museums, homesteads and Whittle the Wood provide cultural variety. This allows you to choose a vacation rental or holiday home according to the character of your planned days, without forcing the different landscapes and routes into a single type of trip.

For further orientation, you can also explore Craig. Additional destinations include Kiowa, Clear Creek, Routt, Fremont, San Juan County, Washington County and Pitkin.

For the higher-level travel overview: Colorado.