Molas Lake

Molas Lake is not only the largest lake in San Juan County, it also has the most tourist infrastructure. The lake itself often holds some ducks and other waterbirds during the warmer months, and the willows around the lake could harbor Fox and Lincoln’s Sparrows, Wilson’s and Orange-crowned Warblers, and Swainson’s Thrush. During the later summer look for up to three species of hummingbirds at the feeders. The lake itself and the campground are owned by the town of Silverton.

Restrictions: Lake and campground are private property; bird from the road unless staying in the campground. Those coming from low elevations should be aware of altitude sickness. This lake sits at over 10,000 ft.

County: San Juan

Directions: Molas Lake is about 5 miles south of Silverton on US 550 on the east side of the highway and well signed.

Alternate Directions: From Silverton, head south on US550 for 6.5 miles to the lake, on the left.

Habitat: Pond/Lake/Reservoir, Streamside Willow, Spruce-Fir Forest

Dates of Access: Summer months
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: Municipal
Admission or Fees: Free

Parking: Varied

Lodging: Fee camping

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Some viewing from car

Delorme: 76 B4-C4

ROC: 131 D2

Latitude: 37.750258
Longitude: -107.683938

Contact Information

Molas Lake Park & Campground
U.S. Highway 550
Silverton, Colorado 81433

info@molaslake.com

Visit the Website for Molas Lake »

Additional Resources

Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L6301302