Buffalo Overlook is an overlook situated in Genesee Park, west of Denver, along Interstate 70. The site offers views of an American bison herd grazing in an enclosed pasture spanning roughly 300 hectares, managed by Denver Mountain Parks. The stop is free to access and makes a natural complement to a visit to the nearby Buffalo Bill Museum on Lookout Mountain.

Why Stop at Buffalo Overlook

The overlook provides close-up viewing of roughly thirty bison without leaving the main road between Denver and the Rockies. It's one of the few places in Colorado where you can see these animals from a free public viewing area right off the highway. The herd shares the pasture with elk and moose, making it an interesting stop for travelers heading toward the mountains or exploring the Front Range.

Plan for thirty minutes to an hour depending on herd activity and light conditions. The site remains open year-round and is freely accessible.

History of the Herd

The American bison nearly vanished by the late 19th century. Once abundant across the Plains, the herds were decimated by commercial hunting and military campaigns designed to deprive Native American nations of their primary resource. William Frederick Cody, known as Buffalo Bill, a pioneer, hunter, and showman who originated the Wild West Show, is one of the figures associated with this era; his museum and tomb are located nearby, atop Lookout Mountain.

The herd visible today at Genesee Park descends from seven bison imported from Yellowstone Park in 1914, with the first two individuals coming from Denver's municipal zoo. Denver Mountain Parks management enforces strict separation from domestic cattle to preserve the genetic purity of the stock. This is therefore a managed herd, rather than strictly wild animals.

What You Can See

• The bison herd: roughly thirty individuals spread across a pasture of approximately 300 hectares, viewable from the designated overlook.
• Elk and moose: also present on site, more elusive but visible depending on the time of day.
• Views of the Rockies: from the overlook, you can spot the first ridges of the Front Range.
• Buffalo Bill Museum and tomb: a few minutes' drive away, atop Lookout Mountain, to contextualize the site historically.

Viewing is done from the designated outdoor area. It is forbidden to cross fences or approach the animals: bison are unpredictable and may charge.

Practical Information

• Access: free, no ticket or reservation required.
• Visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Useful equipment: binoculars or telephoto lens, as bison may be several hundred meters from the overlook.
• Accommodation: a camping area is available nearby in Genesee Park.
• Safety: stay in the visitor area and do not attempt to lure or feed the animals.

When to Visit

The site is accessible year-round. Bison are permanently present in the enclosure, but their position within the pasture varies by season and grass availability. Early morning and late afternoon typically offer the best lighting for photography. In winter, snow creates interesting contrasts, but I-70 can be slowed by weather conditions; check road conditions before departing.

How to Get There

From Denver, take Interstate 70 heading west. Exit at Exit 254, then take Stapleton Road north for roughly 800 meters: the overlook is on your right. It's approximately 25 km from downtown Denver, about thirty minutes under normal traffic conditions. Parking is provided on-site.

Nearby Attractions

The Genesee Park area is part of a broader network of Denver Mountain Parks and historical sites accessible in a single day:

• Buffalo Bill Museum and tomb, atop Lookout Mountain, a few minutes' drive away.
• Daniels Park and Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, two other Front Range sites where you can observe managed bison.
• Colorado Springs and Garden of the Gods, a natural park renowned for its red sandstone formations, roughly 1.5 hours further south.
• Denver, the logical starting point to explore the region.

Planning Your Onward Journey

Buffalo Overlook fits easily into an itinerary combining Denver, the Front Range, and the Rockies. To build a complete trip to the États-Unis, check our suggestions on our États-Unis travel page.