2026 Crane Fest Tours
Festival tours are at the heart of the Monte Vista Crane Festival experience. Led by expert guides with deep local knowledge, these outings take you into the landscapes that sustain Sandhill Cranes and countless species of birds and other wildlife. Whether you prefer the comfort of a charter bus or the intimacy of a guided walk, tours are designed to be immersive, educational, and memorable.
Below is an in-depth look at the tours offered during the 2026 festival, including what you’ll experience and who will be leading each outing.
Morning & Evening Crane Bus Tours
These classic festival tours offer front-row access to one of North America’s greatest wildlife spectacles. This year you can enjoy the comfort of a climate-controlled 56-passenger charter bus as you tour prime viewing locations and watch the spectacle of thousands of Sandhill Cranes lifting off from roost sites in the morning or returning in the evening. Guides provide real-time interpretation, answering questions and sharing insights into crane behavior, migration, and habitat.
Guides: Experienced crane educators and refuge experts
These tours are led by longtime festival guides and wildlife professionals with decades of experience observing cranes in the San Luis Valley. Their deep familiarity with crane movements and viewing etiquette ensures a respectful and rewarding experience for both birds and participants.
Who this tour is for:
- Anyone who wants guaranteed crane viewing without extensive walking
- Photographers seeking dramatic light and mass crane movement
- Visitors who prefer a warm, comfortable viewing experience
- Buses are ADA accessible
Midday Waterfowl Identification Bus Tour
While cranes rest midday, wetlands across the Valley come alive with ducks, geese, swans, and other waterfowl. This tour focuses on identification skills, seasonal species, and understanding wetland habitats. It’s ideal for birders looking to sharpen their ID skills and broaden their species list.
Guide: Regional birding experts
Led by experienced birders and educators, this tour emphasizes field marks, behavior, and habitat cues, with plenty of time for questions and hands-on learning.
Who this tour is for:
- Intermediate birders wanting to improve ID skills
- Birders interested in waterfowl beyond cranes
- Participants who enjoy learning in the field
Guided Bird Walks with SLV GO!
These slow-paced, accessible bird walks are perfect for all experience levels. Explore local trails and natural areas while learning how to observe birds thoughtfully and responsibly. Expect a relaxed pace, frequent stops, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Guides: Jesse Casias, Renee Casias, Christine Alexander
Who this tour is for:
- First-time birders and festival newcomers
- Families and participants looking for a relaxed pace
- Anyone interested in learning birding fundamentals in a welcoming setting
Home Lake Guided Birding Tour
Home Lake is one of the Valley’s most reliable birding hotspots. This guided outing explores wetlands and open water habitats that attract a wide variety of species, from waterfowl to raptors. It’s an excellent tour for photographers and birders alike.
Guide: John Rawinski
Who this tour is for:
- Birders and photographers looking for species diversity
- Participants who enjoy stationary viewing and scanning
- Those wanting a deeper look at wetland bird communities
SOLD OUT
Behind the Scenes: Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
Go beyond public viewing areas on this special behind-the-scenes tour of Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge. Learn how refuge staff manage habitat for cranes and other migratory birds, and gain insight into the day-to-day work of wildlife conservation.
Guide: Suzanne Beauchaine
Who this tour is for:
- Conservation-minded attendees
- Repeat visitors looking for a deeper understanding of refuge management
- Anyone curious about how wildlife habitat is actively stewarded
SOLD OUT
MVNWR Spring Creek Archeological Site Tour
This unique tour combines wildlife viewing with cultural history. Visit the Spring Creek Archeological Site within Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge and learn about the people who lived in the Valley long before modern settlement.
Guide: Esteban Salazar
Who this tour is for:
- History and archaeology enthusiasts
- Attendees interested in the human story of the Valley
- Those looking for a slower-paced, interpretive experience
SOLD OUT
Hidden Histories of Penitente Canyon
Penitente Canyon is known for its dramatic cliffs and recreation opportunities, but its history runs much deeper. This guided tour explores the canyon’s cultural landscape, ecological significance, and conservation story.
Guide: Esteban Salazar
Who this tour is for:
- Participants interested in cultural landscapes and land use
- Those who enjoy storytelling alongside outdoor exploration
- Attendees curious about conservation beyond wildlife alone
SOLD OUT
J.W. Mumma Native Aquatic Species Research Facility Tour
This behind-the-scenes tour explores conservation efforts focused on native fish species of the Rio Grande Basin. Learn how researchers work to protect endangered aquatic species and restore critical habitat.
Guide: Aquatic biologists and research staff
Participants hear directly from scientists involved in hands-on conservation research, offering a rare look at work that often happens out of public view.
Who this tour is for:
- Conservation science enthusiasts
- Attendees interested in water and aquatic ecosystems
- Anyone curious about lesser-seen conservation work
History, Fish, and Elk: Tour the Baca National Wildlife Refuge
Explore the rich history and unique wildlife of the Baca National Wildlife Refuge on this special guided tour led by Refuge Manager Ty Benally. Learn about the refuge’s designation as a Rural Historic Landscape, ongoing efforts to restore native Rio Grande Sucker and Rio Grande Chub populations, and the enduring legacy of the historic Baca Land Grant No. 4.
Weather permitting, the tour will include time in the field to experience the refuge’s expansive landscapes, with the possibility of spotting an elk herd that frequents the area.
Guide: Ty Benally
Who this tour is for:
- Attendees interested in the intersection of history, wildlife, and land stewardship
- Those curious about native fish restoration and refuge management
- Participants looking for a broad, place-based understanding of the Valley
Cranes, Cows, and Cocktails: A Working Lands Conservation Tour
Join the Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust (RiGHT) for Cranes, Cows, and Cocktails, a guided tour of one of RiGHT’s conserved properties. This experience highlights how private working lands provide vital habitat for migratory birds and wildlife while sustaining agricultural livelihoods and water resources.
The tour includes a guided walk of the property, a presentation on private lands conservation, and time for questions and conversation. Participants will also enjoy a cocktail featuring Laws San Luis Valley Straight Rye—a locally crafted rye whiskey made from grain grown right here in the San Luis Valley.
Guide: Jocelyn Catterson
Who this tour is for:
- Attendees interested in private lands conservation and working landscapes
- Those who enjoy learning through conversation and place-based storytelling
- Participants looking for a social, relaxed tour experience with a local flavor
Festival tours are intentionally small-group experiences designed to foster learning, conversation, and meaningful connection to place. Space is limited for all tours, and advance registration is required.
To make the most of your festival experience, we recommend pairing tours with festival talks—which are included with your Festival Pass—for a rich, immersive weekend in the San Luis Valley.
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