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.

County: Rio Grande

Habitat: Lowland Riparian, Pinyon-Juniper Forest, Pond/Lake/Stream, Aspen Grove, Mixed Conifer Forest

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.

Delorme: 79 C5
Roads of Colorado: 133 E1-F2

Dates of Access: Open all year (campground open Memorial Day through fall)
Hours: Any
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission: Free

Restrictions: None

Parking: Unpaved parking areas
Lodging: USFS campground (fee)

Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car

Latitude: 37.7644597
Longitude: -106.5595915