San Miguel River South Fork Preserve

Aliases: South Fork Preserve

One of three Nature Conservancy preserves along the San Miguel River, this pretty little patch of 67 acres is an excellent example of mid-elevation riparian habitat, featuring narrowleaf cottonwood, blue spruce and black twinberry. The 180-foot boardwalk with interpretive signage and the half-mile gravel trail make this one of the most handicapped-accessible birding sites in the area. Durring summer all along this road lsiten for breeding Swainson’s Thrush and Fox Sparrow, among many other birds.

County: San Miguel

Habitat: Mixed-Conifer Forest, Stream, Aspen Grove

Directions: From Telluride, head north on CO 145 approximately 2.5 miles past the turnoff to Rico, and turn left onto Illium Valley Road (FR 625). The preserve is approximately five miles from the highway along this road.

Delorme: 76 A2
Roads of Colorado: 114 C4

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours:
Ownership: Nature Conservancy
Admission: Free

Restrictions: None

Parking: Gravel parking area
Lodging: Hotel in Telluride

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Wheel-chair accessible boardwalk

Latitude: 37.887168
Longitude: -107.905449