Colorado Parks and Wildlife has opened a venue to view wildlife and fish on the Arkansas River.

South of Buena Vista, Bighorn Springs State Wildlife Area grants anglers new access to the river as well as a chance for hikers to see bighorn sheep and raptors. A news release described the viewing opportunity as “excellent.”

As with all state wildlife areas, the newly dedicated 122 acres are only accessible to people with a hunting or fishing license.

A map depicts Bighorn Springs in three sections, with one parking area along the river bank adjacent to the Ruby Mountain campground. The wildlife viewing area is situated upstream, accessed from Chaffee County Road 300 or a hiking trail.

An announcement credited the state wildlife area to the landowner, BlueTriton Brands. The company formerly known as Nestle Waters reportedly reached out to Colorado Parks and Wildlife about a conservation easement for the property.

“This action will preserve, in perpetuity, the natural habitat,” said Sean Shepherd, CPW’s area wildlife manager. “It’s important because it reinforces our open space conservation values. And it enhances the recreational and educational opportunities available to the public along an extremely popular river.”