Cholla stands in western Crowley County

Western Crowley County contains one of Colorado’s best examples of the semidesert shrubland habitat, which is dominated by the spiny cholla tree cactus, a plant that looks like it belongs in Southern Arizona. And maybe it does–because in the cholla occur birds more commonly associated with Arizona than Colorado: Scaled Quail, Curve-billed Thrasher, and if you’re lucky, Greater Roadrunner. A few Mountain Plover breed in this area too, just to remind you you’re in Colorado. Jackrabbits and Pronghorns are plentiful in this area.  Viewing from vehicle only, private property on both sides of the road.

County: Crowley

Habitat: Cholla, Grassland/Prairie

Directions: From the town of Ordway, head north on CO 71 to the north end of town, about 0.75 miles north of CO 96, and turn left (west) on CR H. Follow CR H eight miles west to a T intersection with CR 10. Turn right (north) and bird along CR 10 for the next twelve miles or so. Turn left (west) onto CR V and then in two miles right (north) again onto CR 8 to continue along the route described here.

Delorme: 98 C2
Roads of Colorado: 123 E1, 107 E4

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Ownership: Please respect private property (public road)
Admission: Free

Restrictions: Beware fast-moving traffic on rural roads

Parking: Roadside
Lodging: Hotel in Ordway

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car

Elevation: 4559

Latitude: 38.32101
Longitude: -103.88991