Gypsum Ponds State Wildlife Area
This small SWA right off of I-70 is often worth a quick stop. The ponds are shallow but good for dabbling ducks; Osprey can sometimes be seen in the area during the summer, and Bald Eagle at other times of year. Large cottonwoods along the Eagle River are worth checking out for migrants and breeding species such as Warbling Vireo, Yellow Warbler, Western Kingbird, and others. Muskrats are often seen cruising the ponds.
Restrictions: Camp1ing, fires, glass containers prohibited. Dogs prohibited from Mar 15 to June 15 to protect nesting waterfowl.
County: Eagle
Directions: Located just off I-70 at the town of Gypsum. While heading west on I-70, take the Gypsum exit, cross back over the interstate, go around the roundabout and head back east on the frontage road that parallels I-70. Go to the end of the road to a parking lot and follow the trail that leads around the lake.
Alternate Directions: From I-70 exit 140, head east out of the roundabout south of the exit onto the frontage road. Go about a mile to the parking lot for the ponds.
Habitat: Pond
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 area
Lodging: None. Hotels in Eagle.
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Limited car birding
Delorme: 36 C2
ROC: 68 C2
Latitude: 39.65307
Longitude: -106.94258