Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Comanche National Grassland is located in southeastern Colorado and protects over 400,000 acres of shortgrass prairie, canyons, and riparian corridors. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this grassland preserves a rare and fragile ecosystem representative of the High Plains region, characterized by gently rolling terrain and deep sandstone canyons. The grassland’s topography and open skies create excellent conditions for wildlife observation, including pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and a variety of bird species such as golden eagles and burrowing owls.
A notable feature within the grassland is Picketwire Canyon, a 38-mile-long area known for its extensive dinosaur trackways and prehistoric rock art, making it a significant paleontological and archaeological area. These tracks, belonging to several dinosaur species including the large carnivorous Allosaurus, attract researchers and visitors alike. Recreational activities on Comanche National Grassland include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The grassland’s remote location provides a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience, perfect for visitors looking to explore Colorado’s lesser-known natural landscapes.
Historically, the grassland reflects the region’s ranching heritage, with scattered homestead sites and historic remnants of early settlers and the Dust Bowl era conservation efforts. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along dirt and gravel roads that wind through the landscape, offering opportunities for birding and photography. The grassland’s dry climate and open spaces offer excellent stargazing conditions.
Comanche National Grassland appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and paleontology fans who want to experience vast grassland environments, study dinosaur footprints, or enjoy solitude in a natural setting far from urban centers.
