Jerry Creek Reservoirs
These two medium-sized reservoirs have some of the best waterbirding in the area, and are worth the short walk it takes to scan them. They are best in the late fall and early winter, when a wide variety of birds can be found. Of particular note is a fairly decent chance at seeing Barrow’s Goldeneye and semi-regular Long-tailed Ducks. Less common birds such as loons and grebes also show up here. You can almost always find a Bald Eagle in the fall and spring.
Restrictions: None
County: Mesa
Directions: From the recession of Colorado Highway 65 and 330 just north of the town of Mesa, go east on 330 1 mile, cross the bridge over Plateau Creek, and turn left into a small parking lot (restroom here). Park and hike up the trail a quarter-mile to the reservoir.
Alternate Directions: From Grand Junction, head east on I-70 to exit 49. Take CO 65 for 10 miles and continue east on CO 330. Go 2 miles, cross a bridge, and turn left into the parking area. A half-mile trail leads to the lakes.
Habitat: Reservoir
Dates of Access: Open year round
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Gravel parking area
Lodging: None
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: None
Delorme: 44 C1
ROC: 82 B2
Latitude: 39.19065
Longitude: -108.10857