Celebrate Colorado’s largest big game mammal at State Forest State Park Saturday, Aug. 13

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Rachael Gonzales
Northwest Region Public Information Officer
970-773-8587 / [email protected] Celebrate Colorado’s largest big game mammal at State Forest State Park Saturday, Aug. 13

Walden, Colo. - Images of moose walking through residential neighborhoods, populated downtown shopping centers, and hiking trails have been showing up on tv and social media almost daily. As the state’s moose population grows and sightings increase, so does the public's curiosity. This Saturday, head to State Forest State Park to celebrate their claim to fame and learn more about Colorado’s largest big game species at the Eighth Annual Moose Fest. 

This free family event will take place at State Forest State Park’s  Moose Visitor Center from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. From hay rides to backyard bass fishing, arts and crafts, and educational presentations, there’s something for everyone of all ages. Head out in search of clues in our moose scavenger hunt around the visitor center or grab a passport and earn a stamp for visiting our partners' booth for a chance to win a prize. 

"Every day, visitors come to State Forest for the opportunity to see a moose," said Tony Johnson, Acting State Forest State Park Manager. “They are what we are known for. With North Park being home to the largest moose herd in Colorado, it’s no wonder locals call it the moose capital of Colorado and why your chances of seeing a moose year-round are high. This festival is a great way to get out, have fun and explore the outdoors while learning about moose. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see one while you are here."

Moose Fest details:
When: Saturday, August 13, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Where: State Forest State Park Visitor Center - 56750 Highway 14, approximately 22 miles east of Walden

Scheduled Events: 
10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - All About Moose
11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. - Colorado’s Moose (Documentary by Peak to Creek Films)

Food will be available for purchase from North Park Meats from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

Thanks to successful reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the state’s moose populations are thriving. Colorado Parks and Wildlife encourages the public to appreciate them and learn more about the species, including how to watch them safely and avoid conflicts. 

Although moose may appear docile, they are powerful animals and can be extremely dangerous if they feel threatened, especially if a dog approaches them. CPW encourages people to watch all wildlife safely and from a distance. When recreating with dogs, keep them on a leash and under control at all times.

Partnering with CPW to make the event possible include US Forest Service, the Colorado State Forest Service, Yampatika, the Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge, the Colorado State Land Board, and Never Summer Nordic. 

Colorado’s weather can change quickly. Visitors are encouraged to check the forecast before coming to the festival, and plan for afternoon rain showers and/or cooler weather. 

Learn more about State Forest State Park on our website. For more information on the event, call the State Forest Moose Visitor Center at 970-723-8366.