Rut Ro!

The haunting sound of a bull elk bugling during the dramatic mating season is undeniably one of the most plaintive and captivating things you can experience in the majestic mountains, and it happens every enchanting fall in beautiful Estes Park. The symphony begins with a few deep, growly bars, gradually increases in intensity and shifts to a high-pitched scream that echoes through the valleys, before it concludes with a series of deep, resonant grunts. The elk rut is a wild and exhilarating time of year—both for the majestic elk and for us fascinated human onlookers. From a safe and respectful vantage point, such as the picturesque edge of Moraine Park or a nearby mountain meadow, you can watch as the impressive bulls (males) attract, herd, and fiercely fight for their harems. He skillfully uses that sharp, high-pitched bugle to attract attentive cows (females) while displaying his magnificent antlers and unwavering boldness to engage in powerful battles for their honor. The larger and more mature bulls generally have the best chances of successfully mating with their harem. The drama of this incredible ritual doesn’t only unfold in the rugged mountains: It is quite common to spot a charming harem of 30 cows with one or two robust bull elk casually sprawled across the lush lawns of the golf courses in town. The elk rut is truly my favorite time of year in the stunning landscapes of Colorado. After spending a delightful time watching the elk roam freely around the scenic golf courses of Estes Park, I eagerly headed into the park to witness the vibrant action taking place there. I was thrilled to come across a majestic bull elk in Moraine Park. This big guy was confidently strutting around like he owned the entire area, and well, he quite literally did. I adored how he stood out so vividly against the brilliant backdrop of fall colors. If you ever get the wonderful chance to experience the fascinating elk rut in Colorado, I wholeheartedly recommend seizing the opportunity—it’s an experience you will not want to miss!

Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado