Mountain goats were deliberately introduced to Colorado in 1947, when 14 goats were brought in from Montana and released in the state’s Collegiate Range, followed by additional goats from Idaho, South Dakota, and British Columbia. Today the animals are found spread throughout the state, living above the treeline in central Colorado and in the San Juan mountains.
Mountain goats are typically quite rare in areas of high human activity, but towards the top of Mount Blue Sky these animals often gather around parking lots and roads. Nearly 200,000 people visit the Mount Blue Sky Recreation Area every year. The large number of people and their proximity to the animals create a series of hazards for the goats, including increased stress, disease risk, behavioral changes, and more. But it can also pose a risk to tourists, with the animals occasionally acting aggressively towards humans if they feel threatened.
It’s not uncommon on Mount Blue Sky to witness mountain goats running towards the sound of crinkling food wrappers, running towards people with food, sticking their heads in cars, licking the salt off vehicles, or standing on vehicles, as is the case in this video.
The road to the summit of Mount Blue Sky is set to be closed for maintenance during the 2025 summer season, reopening in May 2026. But those heading to high altitude locations anywhere in Colorado, or anywhere in the western United States, may still encounter mountain goats. People should always give mountain goats at least 50 yards of space (150 feet), backing away if the animal begins to approach. One should never feed mountain goats, either.
USFS Mountain Goat Safety Guidelines:
Although not usually dangerous, mountain goats in this area may approach people. Some have grown accustomed to being fed and, as a result, have lost their fear of people. This can make them more aggressive and likely to “stand their ground” if encountered on the trail.
Mountain goats also crave the salts found in human sweat and urine. They may follow people to obtain sweat soaked clothing or hiking gear.
Male goats may become particularly aggressive during the breeding season, which begins in October and continues through December.
For your safety:
• Never feed mountain goats.
• Stay at least 50 yards (half the length of a football field) away from goats.
• If a goat approaches, slowly move away. If it persists, chase it off by
yelling, waving your arms, waving clothing, or throwing rocks.
• Urinate on rocks, bare soil, or snow at least 50 yards from the trail.
• Do not leave clothes or gear unattended.