Lake John State Wildlife Area
Aliases: Alkali Lake
This relatively deep lake is probably the best in the county for diving ducks, and is good all around during migration for waterbirds and, if water levels are low enough, shorebirds. Look especially for loons and grebes during fall. The extensive sage flats around here support Greater Sage-Grouse and Sage Thrasher, and a good variety of raptors including Golden Eagle, Ferruginous Hawk, and Prairie Falcon. Short-tailed Weasel has sometimes been seen around the lake also. Pronghorns are fairly common in the vicinity.
Restrictions: Water skiing and sailboards prohibited
County: Jackson
Directions: From Walden, take CO 125 to the south end of town and follow it as it bends west. Where 125 bends south again in about a mile, go straight (west) onto CR 12W. Follow CR 12W for 10 miles to the intersection with CR 7. Bear right (north) onto CR 7 and go north for a little more than 5 miles to the entrance to the SWA on the left (CR 7A). The lake itself is best viewed from various spots along CR 7A about 2 miles from the intersection with CR 7. From Cowdrey, take CR 6W (main street) west for 8 miles to the intersection with CR 7, and go left (south) for 5 miles to the intersection with CR 7A and the entrance to the SWA. Alkali Lake is east of CR 7, 5 miles south of the intersection with CR 7A. There is a small dirt two-track along a fence line down to the lake.
Alternate Directions: From Walden, head south for less than half a mile on CO 125/14, and turn right onto CR 12W. Go 10 miles to CR 7 and turn right. Go just over 5 miles to the entrance to the SWA on the left.
Habitat: Pond/Lake/Reservoir, Sagebrush
Dates of Access: Open all year
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 areas
Lodging: Primitive camping on SWA. Private Campground on northwest corner with more amenities, contact Lake John Resort for fees.
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Some car birding
Delorme: 17 B6
ROC: 37 F1, 38 A1
Latitude: 40.78922
Longitude: -106.47212