Pawnee National Grassland - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Pawnee Buttes Trailhead is a stunning destination for outdoor adventurers. With views of the first national grassland and dramatic buttes, there are plenty of opportunities to explore nearby natural wonders. Whether you’re looking for a hike on a well-marked loop that takes you up close to the rugged outcroppings or if you wish to birdwatch or take photographs from afar, this trail certainly won’t disappoint. It is also offers excellent hunting opportunities, as well as campground.

Pawnee Buttes, Colorado is beautiful natural area carved by centuries of wind and water erosion. It is home to a great variety of wildlife, including mule deer, bobwhite quail, ducks, bald eagles and more. Popular with rock climbers and hikers alike, Pawnee Buttes boasts colorful sandstone cliffs which reach an elevation of just over 8400 feet. There are plenty of vistas and trails to explore while visiting the Buttes and they offer stunning panoramic views of Weld County.

Jackson Reservoir is a man-made body of water located in Morgan County, Colorado. The reservoir was created in the early 1900s for irrigation purposes, and today it serves as a popular recreation spot for boaters, fishermen, and swimming enthusiasts. The reservoir is approximately 1,700 acres in size, with a maximum depth of roughly 60 feet. It is home to a variety of fish species and also there are also several species of migratory birds that use the reservoir as a stopping point.

Jackson Lake is a beautiful natural lake located in Morgan County, Colorado. The lake is well-known for its clear water and stunning views. fishing, swimming, and boating are all popular activities at Jackson Lake. The area around the lake is also popular for hiking, camping, and picnicking. In addition to its natural beauty, Jackson Lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, and herons. Visitors to the lake can also enjoy seeing deer, elk, and even occasional moose.

Empire Reservoir is a stunningly beautiful place, with a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. Located fifteen miles east of Greeley and only an hour's drive from Denver, the reservoir covers more than 700 acres surrounded by mountain views and tall trees. The area boasts some of the best fishing in Colorado, with cutthroat trout, largemouth bass, and channel catfish aplenty. Boating is also popular on the water, ranging from kayaks to motor boats allowed in the designated boating area.

The Rainbow Arch Bridge, was built in 1927 and spans the South Platte River. It is a steel girder bridge with a total length of 1,280 feet and a main span of 800 feet. The bridge was designed by engineer J.A.L. Waddell and is currently used for vehicular traffic. It is one of the few remaining examples of Waddell's work in Colorado. The Rainbow Arch Bridge is an important part of the state's transportation history and has been designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.