State Forest State Park
Aliases: Moose Visitor Center
This state park with the unwieldy name has some excellent birding potential. Two areas are of particular interest. The first is the road to North Michigan Reservoir, which provides access to a great deal of beautiful willow habitat on the way to the reservoir, which has breeding Fox Sparrow and Veery. The stream below the dam is excellent for dippers. The second spot in the park worth visiting is the Moose Visitor Center, a little farther east on Highway 14. The feeders in back can be great for finches at all times of year, including Red Crossbill, Cassin’s Finch, Pine Grosbeak, and, in winter, rosy-finches. In summer Fox Sparrow breeds in the willows beyond, and Red-naped Sapsucker is reliable. While you’re there, check out the visitor center’s terrific exhibits and have the rangers point you in the direction of recent moose sightings.
Restrictions: Please obey all park rules and regulations
County: Jackson
Directions: The road to North Michigan Reservoir heads north from CO 14 about 30 miles east of Walden at the KOA campground. The Moose Visitor Center is roughly another three miles east on the south side of the highway.
Alternate Directions: From Walden, head east on CO 14 for 19 miles to Jackson CR 41. Turn left and enter the park. The Moose Visitor's Center is 5 miles further down CO 14, on the right.
Habitat: Lodgepole Forest, Streamside Willow, Stream, Streamside Willow
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: 24 hours
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: State Parks Pass
Parking: Paved and gravel parking areas
Lodging: Camping areas
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Some car birding and handicap accessible visitors center
Delorme: 18 D2-3
ROC: 39 D2
Latitude: 40.51164
Longitude: -106.01063