Fatal Tick Bites Are More Likely in These Colorado Locations

Tick season has arrived in Colorado, and from now until early October, everyone enjoying the great outdoors in high-risk areas needs to take extra precautions.

According to the CDC’s guide for Tick-borne diseases, illnesses like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever or Colorado Tick Fever can be fatal if untreated. Keep scrolling to learn more about Colorado’s high-risk areas for ticks and tips for protecting yourself and your pets.

Colorado's Most Dangerous Ticks

The Rocky Mountain wood tick (left) is the primary carrier of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Colorado Tick Fever. That's the worst one to encounter.

Also common are the American dog and brown ticks. Learn more about hard and soft-bodied ticks found in Colorado within this guide from Colorado State University.

Read More: 7 Invasive Insects in Colorado You Should Kill Immediately

Signs of a Dangerous Tick Bite

A Rocky Mountain Wood tick's bite can cause fever, rash, muscle pain, and vomiting. If you suspect a bite, seek treatment from a doctor right away.

If you know it's a tick, try to remove it ASAP using fine-tipped tweezers. Clean the area, and save the tick in a sealed bag. Watch for symptoms over the next two weeks.

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High-Risk Areas in Western Colorado

In Western Colorado, the hot zones for ticks include the brushy, grassy, and forested areas of Delta, Gunnison, Mesa, and Montrose counties. They don't mind the elevation, thriving anywhere between 4000 to 10,000 feet.

The following trails in Western Colorado are good examples of high-risk zones for ticks:

Mesa County: Kannah Creek Trail (Grand Mesa National Forest)

• Popular for hiking & fishing, this trail crosses dense underbrush and meadows.
• Ticks are found near creek edges and shaded forest paths.

Delta County: Escalante Canyon

• Known for red rock views, the canyon is home to deer and rodents that carry ticks.
• Grassy canyon floors/ spring bloom create perfect tick habitats.

Montrose County: (Montrose/Uncompahgre Plateau)

• Elevation, thick vegetation, and elk habitat mean ticks are found in early summer.
• The area is a favorite for horse riders and hikers. Both risk picking up ticks.

Gunnison County: Mill-Castle Trail (near Ohio Creek)

• This lesser-traveled area in the Gunnison National Forest features stream crossings and grassy slopes.
• Active Tick populations thrive here from late May through July.

Read More: Keep Mosquitoes Away by Adding These 11 Plants to Your Garden

Keep Ticks Away from People and Pets

It’s not just hiking trails—ticks can show up in your yard, local parks, dog parks, and even campgrounds during the summer. Be sure to wear long sleeves and pants while hiking and camping.

For protection, use EPA-approved repellents like DEET or Picaridin, and always check your skin, scalp, and clothing when returning from a high-risk area. Enjoy the outdoors, but stay tick-smart this summer. You don't need to panic; simply stay proactive.