Rocky Mountains · Black Swift Trail

Andrews Lake

Situated on a small bench near Molas Pass, this is the epitome of scenic mountain lakes. The lake itself is not very good for waterbirds, but the boggy willows can support Fox and Lincoln’s Sparrows, Wilson’s and MacGillivray’s Warblers, and Dusky Flycatcher, and the spruce-fir could produce Pine Grosbeak, Hammond’s Flycatcher, Red Crossbill, and more. During the winter months White-tailed Ptarmigan can be found around the lake, though you will have to snowshoe in from the highway to find them. Look in the bogs for alpine butterflies, especially in late summer.

Restrictions: Access road closed during the winter months

County: San Juan

Directions: Andrews Lake is about one mile south of Molas Pass on US 550 and about 7 miles south of Silverton. From Silverton, head south on US550 for 7 miles, and just over Molas Pass turn left at the signed turn to Andrews Lake.

Alternate Directions: From Silverton, head south on US550 for 7 miles, and just over Molas Pass turn left at the signed turn to Andrews Lake.

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

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free

Parking: Paved parking area

Lodging: None

Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: Paved trail around part of lake

Delorme: 76 C4

ROC: 131 D2

Latitude: 37.72829
Longitude: -107.7106

Additional Resources

Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L12059205