A Tall Tale of Radioactive Wildlife

Rocky Mountain Arsenal is a Denver gem. In the four years I’ve lived here, I’ve done the free wildlife drive at least a dozen times. You’re almost guaranteed to spot something, and if you play your cards right, the bison will wander close to the road. Just like in Jurassic Park, stay in your vehicle at all times. And. Don’t. Move.

The Arsenal also has an extensive history as a Superfund site where chemical weapons were manufactured. Legend has it some buildings were buried under earth when the chemicals couldn’t be scrubbed. Yummy.

Unfortunately, the Arsenal closes at dusk — otherwise we might see the bison glow.

Photo made July 9, 2025, in Denver, using an iPhone 16.