Burn Canyon Burn

The Burn Canyon fire of 2002 has left a fascinating mosaic in its wake. As you drive FR 607 through the canyon, you’ll encounter some areas of pinyon-juniper woodland and ponderosa pine forest that burned and some that did not. You’ll find areas where the burned trees have been cleared, areas where they have been felled, and areas where they have been left standing–all part of a long-term experimental effort by the Public Lands Partnership to evaluate the effects of salvage logging on regeneration. The variety of habitats host a corresponding variety of wildlife: The open meadows contain Lark and Vesper Sparrows, the standing burns attract woodpeckers and Western and Mountain Bluebirds; and the standing ponderosa forest can harbor Grace’s Warblers. Deer are common, and elk and Wild Turkey can occasionally be seen. On cool sunny days, bullsnakes sun themselves on the road, and you might see a rattler. Stop at the Basin store for supplies and a restroom break.

County: San Miguel

Habitat: Burn Area, Pinyon-Juniper forest, Ponderosa Forest, Mountain Meadow.

Directions: From the junction of CO 145 and CO 141 just east of Naturita, head south 12.5 miles on CO 141 to the 'town' of Basin and turn left onto CR U29. Follow CR U29 approximately six miles east to FR 607 on the right, which is the best road through the burn.

Delorme: 65 D6
Roads of Colorado: 121 F2

Dates of Access: Roads not maintained in winter
Hours: Any
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission: Free

Restrictions: Beware poor road conditions, especially after snow or rain

Parking: Roadside
Lodging: Primitive camping

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car

Elevation: 7200

Latitude: 38.0919656
Longitude: -108.4321254