Embargo Creek
FR 640, which follows Embargo Creek, runs through some of the best ponderosa pine habitat in this area. On the south side of the road and in about 4 miles, some hiking into the forest can be very productive for Williamson’s Sapsucker, Pygmy Nuthatch, Western Bluebird and Cassin’s Finch. Nomadic species such as Clark’s Nutcracker and Red Crossbill can occasionally be very common in this area too. This is a good area for the common lower-montane butterflies such as Queen Alexandra’s Sulphur and the beautiful Western Pine Elfin. With luck, you might see an Abert’s Squirrel. At the end of the road is Cathedral Rock Campground, situated in an aspen grove where you might be serenaded to sleep by a Northern Saw-whet Owl.
Restrictions: None
County: Rio Grande
Directions: From the junction of US 160 and CO 149 in Southfork, head east on US 160 for 2 3/4 miles. Turn left (north) and join 15 Road (also called N River Road, which travels north east). Turn north (left) onto FR 650. Bear left onto FR 640.
Alternate Directions: From South Fork, head east on US160 for almost 3 miles to CR 19. Turn left and in about 400 yards (in the town of Alpine), take a right onto CR 15. Follow this road for 6 miles to CR 65 (FR 640), on the left. The birding can be good anywhere along this road, till the end in 11 miles.
Habitat: Lowland Riparian, Pinyon-Juniper Forest, Pond/Lake/Stream, Aspen Grove, Mixed Conifer Forest
Dates of Access: Open all year (campground open Memorial Day through fall)
Hours: Any
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Unpaved parking areas
Lodging: USFS campground (fee)
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Delorme: 79 C5
ROC: 133 E1-F2
Latitude: 37.7644597
Longitude: -106.5595915