Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your wildlife or birding tour with us? You probably have a few questions, and we’re here to help. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about grouse lekking tours near Steamboat Springs, what to bring, when to visit, accessibility, photography tips, and more. Whether you're a seasoned birder or joining us for your first wildlife tour, this guide will help you prepare for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable experience in Northwestern Colorado.

  • Most tours begin around 4:00–5:00 AM, depending on the time of year and wildlife activity. We’ll confirm the exact meeting time after booking. Early starts ensure we’re in position before sunrise when grouse displays are most active.

  • Tours depart from Hayden, Colorado, about 25 miles west of Steamboat Springs. We explore various private ranches and public lands in Routt County, with access to prime grouse lekking habitat and wildlife viewing areas.

  • The standard price per-person will place you in a group with other guests if your group is fewer than four people. If you have fewer than 4 people and would like a private tour, contact us for the rate.

  • Layered clothing is key. See our full What to Bring page for details, but generally:

    • Early season: Winter jacket, insulated boots, gloves

    • Late season: Layers, hiking boots, windbreaker

    • Year-round: Sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle
      We provide spotting scopes, seating, blankets, and food/drinks.

  • Most leks are accessible via a short walk (up to ½ mile) from the vehicle. You should be comfortable walking on uneven ground in low light, but we avoid strenuous hiking.

  • We do our best to accommodate guests. Some blinds are reachable with minimal walking. Let us know in advance if you have mobility concerns, and we’ll discuss options.

  • Our primary focus is on Sharp-tailed Grouse, Dusky Grouse, and Greater Sage-Grouse. We often see Sandhill Cranes, raptors, and a variety of songbirds and big game mammals. Species vary by season.

  • March 15 through May 15 is our lekking season. Sharp-tailed and Greater sage grouse typically start by mid march, while Dusky grouse begin lekking in April.

  • Yes. Outside lekking season, we offer year-round custom birding and wildlife tours, including fall migrations and winter wildlife viewing. Let us know your interests.

  • Absolutely. Our tours are designed for photographers and birders, with accessible blinds in prime locations. For best results, bring a 400mm lens or larger for wildlife photography.

  • Yes. We can help arrange lodging, transportation, and other travel logistics. We also offer optional on-site lodging in Hayden. Reach out if you need assistance planning your visit.

  • Yes. A deposit is required to secure your tour date. The amount will be 50 % of the total cost of your tour and lodging (if included). Final invoice will be sent two weeks prior to the tour date with payment due upon receipt.

  • Deposits are non-refundable. Tour can be rescheduled up to 90 days before the tour. Once the final invoice is paid, there are no refunds for any reason outside of our control.

  • Absolutely. Trip insurance is a smart and affordable option to protect your investment in a tour. We cannot be responsible for inclement weather, natural disasters, travel delays or cancellations, or lack of bird activity.

  • Yes. We can typically accommodate bird guides with up to 12 guests. Contact us for pricing and availability.