Alfred M. Bailey Bird Nesting Area
Aliases: Bailey Bird Nesting Area
In 1971, this remote area was officially designated a special management area by the US Forest Service due to the large diversity of high-elevation birds that it supports. Many sought-after bird species have been found nesting here, including Northern Goshawk, Northern Pygmy-Owl, Fox Sparrow, and Williamson’s Sapsucker. Black Swift has been seen overhead. To reach the actual Bird Nesting Area requires a moderate hike of nearly two miles into the Eagles Nest Wilderness, but no hiking is required to enjoy the excellent wildlife viewing opportunities along the road to the trailhead, which passes through mixed-conifer forest, areas of beetle-killed lodgepole pine, mountain meadows, and streamside willows. Those who hike the entire 4.5-mile trail will reach the remains of the historic Boss silver mine.
County: Summit
Habitat: Aspen Grove, Spruce-Fir Forest, Lodgepole Pine, Streamside Willow
Directions: From I-70 exit 205, head north on CO 9 about 7.5 miles. Opposite the entrance to the Blue River Campground, head left (west) on Rock Creek Road (FR 1350). Go 1.2 miles and turn left, following signs to Rock Creek. The road is closed at this point in winter. In summer, continue 1.7 miles to the Rock Creek Trailhead. This section of the road may not always be passable to passenger cars.
Delorme: 38 C1
Roads of Colorado: 70 B2
Dates of Access: June - October
Hours: Any
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission: Free
Restrictions: : Road closed in winter. In summer, road may be rough or impassable, especially after rain
Parking: Gravel lot
Lodging: Hotels in Silverthorne, or USFS Blue River Campground
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car on road to trailhead
Elevation: 9400
Latitude: 39.71082
Longitude: -106.167257
Contact Info:
970-468-5400
Amenities
Restrooms | No |
Drinking Fountain | No |
Gravel Trails | No |
Paved Trails | No |
Platform/Blind | No |
Boardwalk | No |
Concession | No |
Visitor Center | No |
Gift Shop | No |
Primitive | Yes |
Camping | Yes |
Picnic | No |
Hunting | No |
Fishing | No |