Yuma County: Prairie, Birdlife and History

Yuma County in northeastern Colorado brings together natural and cultural attractions: its sand sage prairies are a core area for the Greater Prairie-Chicken in Colorado, while Wray offers its own attractions, including a trail along the Republican River and the Wray Museum. In the southern part of the county, high plains with wheat and sunflower fields shape the landscape. The season can also influence what your trip focuses on: birdwatching has a brief spring window, and agricultural experiences may vary by host and season.

Spring Birdwatching

Yuma County’s sand sage prairies are considered a core area for the Greater Prairie-Chicken in Colorado. The birds’ range may vary seasonally. Greater Prairie-Chicken viewing tours take place every year in March and April; check the dates for your planned travel year. There is also guidance for looking for the birds on your own: north of Wray and east of US 385, visitors can watch for Greater Prairie-Chickens along county roads shortly after daybreak in April and May. Stay on the roads while observing and respect private property.

The tours and roadside viewing have different stated time frames: the tours are offered in March and April, while looking for birds shortly after daybreak is suggested for April and May. If you want to plan your trip around birdlife, keep these seasonal details in mind and check the dates for the relevant year.

Wray: River Trail, Amphitheater and History

A multi-mile hiking and biking trail runs along the Republican River in Wray and connects three parks. It offers a described corridor for walks and bike rides, bringing together the river and several park destinations. Also on the southeastern edge of town is the Wray Lions Amphitheater, a natural outdoor amphitheater within the Caliche Bluff walls. The trail and the amphitheater offer different ways to experience the town: one connects outdoor recreation, the river and parks; the other is a distinctive venue set within the rock walls.

Wray also has a connection to regional history. The Wray Museum depicts the 1868 Battle of Beecher Island. The year refers to the battle; the museum presents its story. Across the county, historical sites and museums also tell the story of Yuma County.

Landscape and Rural Experiences in the South

High plains with wheat and sunflower fields define the landscape of southern Yuma County. Its agricultural character is also reflected in rural farm experiences offered in Joes, Kirk and Idalia. Details may vary by host and season. Joes is also home to the Prairie Futures Public Garden, with its diverse experimental gardens. Its focus is on grassland regeneration in the Colorado High Plains. Access and programming may vary; check the relevant details before visiting.

Artists and craftspeople in southern Yuma County also depict rural life and celebrate Colorado’s rural culture. Agriculture and ranching provide the subject matter. These artistic depictions add a cultural perspective to the landscape and farm experiences, without implying a specific program that is regularly available to visitors.

More Activities and Practical Information

Yuma County offers fishing opportunities; seasonal rules and access requirements apply. Pheasant hunting is also available as a recreational activity and is subject to seasonal regulations. Wray is located on US 34. Picnic areas and free camping are available on the western edge of town. Before your trip, check whether the facilities and camping availability suit your plans.

The Wray State Fish Hatchery is in Yuma County, three miles northwest of Wray. A private fish farmer built it in 1937; it was acquired by Colorado Game and Fish in 1939. Today, more than ten warm- and cold-water species are propagated and raised there; the fish are used for stocking efforts across the state. Production details may change.

Discover more destinations: Wray, Arapahoe, Routt, Kiowa, Weld, Montezuma County, Moffat County, Douglas

For the main travel overview: Colorado.