Bishop and Summit Canyons

These two large canyons in southwestern San Miguel County are a good place to come to get away from it all, as well as see some spectacular scenery. The canyon walls are lined with oak woodland and pinyon-juniper forest, and Western Bluebird, Plumbeous Vireo, Gray and Dusky Flycatchers, and Western Scrub-Jay are common. Look for typical canyon birds such as White-throated Swift, Canyon and Rock Wrens, and maybe even Peregrine Falcon as well. The road becomes rougher the further down Bishop Canyon you go – you can park when it becomes too rough and hike down into Summit Canyon, a hike worth it for the amazing scenery as much as for the birding.

County: Dolores

Habitat: Rimrock/Mesa, Pinyon/Juniper Forest, Scrub Oak Forest

Directions: From Dove Creek, head west on US 491 two miles and turn right on CO 141. Follow this north about 14 miles, past the 'town' of Egnar, and turn left on CR 7.N road. After about a mile, turn left onto CR N6. Follow this as far down into Bishop Canyon as your car will permit, then park and walk the rest of the way.

Delorme: 74 A1
Roads of Colorado: 120 B3

Dates of Access: Summer months
Hours: Any
Ownership: BLM
Admission: Free

Restrictions: Road in lower Bishop Canyon can be rough

Parking: Roadside
Lodging: Primitive camping

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Limited viewing from car

Latitude: 37.970584
Longitude: -108.968537