Photography: Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Join us for a winter photography meetup at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most wildlife-rich and accessible photography locations in the Denver metro area. We will meet at the Lake Ladora Fishing Center and spend a few relaxed hours exploring nearby trails, shoreline views, and open prairie together.

January at the Arsenal offers a quieter, more atmospheric shooting experience. Expect subdued winter colors, big skies, and soft light. Overcast conditions are common and actually ideal for wildlife photography, producing even exposure and gentle contrast. Wildlife sightings are often excellent this time of year, with frequent views of bison, mule deer, prairie dogs, bald eagles, hawks, and other winter birds. With fewer visitors than warmer months, the refuge feels open and calm, making it easier to move slowly and shoot intentionally.

Cold temperatures and wind are part of the experience, so dress in warm layers and consider gloves that still allow you to operate your camera comfortably. Be prepared for muddy conditions, especially after snowmelt or recent moisture. Trails around Lake Ladora are generally flat, but sections can be soft or slick, so waterproof boots with good traction are strongly recommended. Telephoto lenses are helpful for wildlife, but wider focal lengths work well for environmental portraits, winter landscapes, and storytelling shots that emphasize scale and mood.

This meetup is open to all experience levels. Whether you are refining wildlife autofocus settings, learning how winter light behaves, or just enjoying time outdoors with other photographers, you are welcome. We will move at an easy pace, pause often, and keep the vibe relaxed and respectful of both the wildlife and each other. Bring the camera you enjoy using, prepare for cold and mud, and expect a grounded winter photography session in one of Colorado’s most underrated wildlife locations.