Ten Reasons to Attend the High Plains Snow Goose Festival

See the snow geese at the High Plains Snow Goose Festival. The top ten reasons to attend this festival begin with a great keynote speaker to engage us in tales of birding. Come learn and be entertained.

In February, the fields and reservoirs of Southeastern Colorado turn white—not from snow but from the large white geese arriving by the thousands during their traditional migration to their winter roosts. Witness this phenomenon and watch in awe as thousands of snow geese lift off at once.  

Tour the colorful and extensive canyons that exist along the many tributaries of the Cimmaron and Purgatoire Rivers in southeastern Colorado. Among them, native communities found protection and fresh water springs. This ecosystem now provides protective cover and water for the plentiful wildlife, hundreds of species of birds, ample trees, and grasses.

Walk along the most densely bird-populated spot in the state. You'll be amazed at what you discover! The Willow Creek Trail behind Lamar Community College is an oasis for birds who have just flown miles and miles over the plains. This makes it a legendary migrant trap where birders are sure to catch glimpses of dozens of species. This unique ecosystem is also home to native plants, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. 

While in the area of southeast Colroado stop by and visit local, historically significant sites like Sand Creek the site of the deadly 1864 massacre. Or stop by Camp Amache, a WWII Japanese internment camp.

Each year we are privileged to have the Pueblo's Raptor Center come down and give attendees an up close look at all their amazing raptors. This is educational experience for the whole family. 

Shop from local artisans selling a variety of goods, including jewelry, saddles, wildlife callers, and more. Find unique gifts for you and your friends and family or bid on items donated by vendors.

Learn what it takes to become a birder from a local expert who will talk about the basics and how to go from 0-20 in no time. 

Getting up early never felt so good. View snow geese against the backdrop of the rising sun and get a photo opportunity like never before. 

Spend a couple more days in Lamar and explore historical attractions The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, Big Timbers Museum, and Camp Amache, a WWII Japanese internment camp site. 

More tours and presentations await at the High Plains Snow Goose Festival.