Lake Catamount

This very large and often bird-filled lake is entirely private, but can be scanned from public roads. It is usually the best waterbird spot anywhere near Steamboat Springs, and is especially good during late fall and early spring migration. Look especially for a good variety of divers, often including Barrow’s Goldeneye, as well as loons and grebes. The marshy fringes of the lake are good for Yellow-headed Blackbird and Pied-billed Grebe, while raptors such as Bald Eagles often haunt the lake itself.

County: Routt

Habitat: Pond/Lake/Reservoir, Marsh

Directions: South of Steamboat Springs, take US 40 south to CO 131; follow CO 131 to CR 18 (approximately 5 miles); continue on CR 18 east and south to the lake area.

Delorme: 26 B3
Roads of Colorado: 37 D4

Dates of Access: Open all year, though lake is frozen during the winter, daylight hours
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: Private
Admission: Free

Restrictions: Respect private property; bird from the road.

Parking: Roadside
Lodging: Hotels in Steamboat Springs

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Car birding

Elevation: 7050

Latitude: 40.35566075
Longitude: -106.8180406