Highline Lake State Park
Perhaps no body of water in the Grand Junction area is as productive as this small reservoir. Not only is the water itself excellent for migrant waterfowl, grebes, loons, and shorebirds (when the water is low), but the riparian habitat around the campground and entrance road is also good for passerine migrants and breeding species like Blue Grosbeak, Bullock’s Oriole, Lazuli Bunting, and more. In the drier habitat around the fringes of the property look for birds like Loggerhead Shrike, Rock Wren, and Lark Sparrow, as well as many reptiles including sagebrush and side-blotched lizards. Mack Mesa Lake, a small lake on the north end of the park, is often birdy as well, and is an especially good place to look for swallows of all varieties.
Restrictions: Waterfowl and small game hunting allowed.
County: Mesa
Directions: Western Mesa County north of Loma. From the 1-70 Loma Exit take Colorado 139 six miles north to CR-Q, then west 1.2 miles to CR-11.8, which leads one mile north to the park. . For reservations and fee information e-mail the park at highline.park@state.co.us, or phone 970-858-7208.
Alternate Directions: From the Loma exit off I-70, head north on CO 139 for 5 miles to Mesa CR Q. Take a left and go 1.3 miles to CR 11.8. Take a right and go 1 mile north to the main entrance to the park.
Habitat: Reservoir, Sagebrush, Lowland Riparian
Dates of Access: Open year round
Hours: 24 hours
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: State Parks Pass
Parking: Parking areas
Lodging: Camping
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Car birding and some handicap accessible trails
Delorme: 42 B2
ROC: 80 C1
Latitude: 39.27079
Longitude: -108.83662