Apishapa State Wildlife Area
Deep canyons, abundant pinyon-juniper woodland, some riparian groves, and even good grassland characterize this remote State Wildlife Area. It provides a great opportunity to view bighorn sheep in an unbelievably scenic and rugged prairie setting. With some hiking through the rough terrain birds such as Rock and Canyon Wrens, Canyon Towhee, Bushtit, and Juniper Titmouse can be found. The lowland riparian along the river bottom should be checked for migrants. In season Common Poorwills and Great Horned Owls serenade the hardy camper to sleep. A myriad of reptiles and amphibians can be found in the area, including rattlesnakes and even soft-shelled turtles in the river; and during certain days in the fall tatantulas can be seeing migrating across the road. Some Native American rock art can be found along the canyon rims.
Restrictions: Wet roads may be impassable; no off-road vehicle travel. No potable water
County: Las Animas
Attractions: Excellent scenery; solitude
Directions: For the north side, from Walsenburg take I-25 to CO 10, go east 18.5 miles, then south on CR 77 for 7 miles, then east on CR 90 for 11 miles to Apishapa State Wildlife Area. Follow signs through wildlife area to northeast side and parking lot. The SWA can also be accessed via US 350 east of Trinidad; travel north from the town of Tyrone on county roads, follow directional signs to SWA.
Alternate Directions: From Walsenburg, take I-25 exit 50 and go east on CO 10 for 18.5 miles, then south on CR 77 for 7 miles, then east on CR 90 for 11 miles to Apishapa State Wildlife Area. Follow signs through wildlife area to northeast side and parking lot.
Habitat: Pinyon-Juniper Forest, Rimrock/Mesa, Lowland Riparian
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: A valid hunting or fishing license, or State Wildlife Area pass is required for everyone 16 or older accessing any state wildlife area or state trust lands.
Parking: Gravel parking areas
Lodging: Hotels in Walsenburg
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Limited
Delorme: 100 B1
ROC: 138 B2-C3
Latitude: 37.67052
Longitude: -104.26768