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: Open June - October, closed during the winter.
Hours: 24 hours
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission: Free

Restrictions: Road closed in winter. 4x4 vehicle recommended, road may be rough or impassable after rain storms.

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