Hunting / Fishing / Wildlife
Living with Wildlife in Rangely
In Rangely, wildlife is part of everyday life—surrounding our community year-round. During colder months, mule deer often wander into town in search of food and shelter. While these encounters can be memorable, please remember that deer (along with elk, pronghorn, and other big-game animals) are truly wild.
It is illegal in Colorado to intentionally feed big-game animals by placing or distributing feed, salt blocks, or other attractants. This law, enforced by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), helps protect wildlife health, prevent habituation to humans, and reduce conflicts. Violators may face fines. For more details and tips on coexisting with wildlife, visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife "Feeding Wildlife is Illegal.” The link is at the bottom of the page
Prime Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The wetlands and tailwater area below Kenney Reservoir, just east of town on Highway 64, create ideal habitat, providing cover and food for diverse species. This makes it one of the best spots in the region for wildlife observation.
While exploring Rangely and the surrounding Rio Blanco County—whether driving scenic roads or hiking public lands—you may spot:
- Wild horses (descendants of historic herds in nearby BLM-managed areas)
- Mule deer, elk and pronghorn antelope
- Migratory birds and waterfowl
- Coyotes
- Bald and golden eagles, hawks
- Prairie dogs
- And more, including occasional beaver, osprey, and big-horned owl
Hunting, Fishing, and Shared Use
Rangely offers some of the finest hunting and fishing in Colorado, with abundant opportunities for elk, mule deer, antelope, and trout in the White River and nearby public lands.
We share this beautiful landscape with both hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. During hunting seasons, sightseers and viewers should take extra precautions:
- Wear blaze orange or other high-visibility clothing.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and posted hunting areas.
- Avoid wandering off designated paths in active hunting zones.
Hunters, in turn, practice ethical and safe behavior to ensure everyone enjoys the outdoors responsibly.
Rangely's wildlife is a true treasure—let's respect it, observe from a distance, and keep our community safe and pristine for all who visit.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife: