· Spanish Peaks

Lathrop State Park

The diverse habitat of this park, at the foot of the beautiful Spanish Peaks, makes it the best place in Huerfano County to find the widest variety of birds. Martin and Horseshoe Lakes are good-sized bodies of water where many good birds have been seen, including loons, swans and scoters. Around the lakes, riparian habitat abounds for good passerines. Dryland birds can also be found on either side of the lakes. On the north side, scan the hogback ridge for Greater Roadrunners & Pinyon Jays. There is a parking area and trail to the ridge on the north side of the park. On the south side of the lakes, there are good stands of yucca where Ladder-backed Woodpeckers can sometimes be found. An interpretive site overlooks a marsh. Other possible wildlife sightings include coyote, jackrabbit and bats on summer evenings. There are many other areas, both wet and dry, in the park too numerous to describe. It’s a great place to enjoy and explore.

County: Huerfano

Attractions: Along Highway of Legends Scenic and Historic Byway

Habitat: Pinyon-Juniper Forest, Pond/Lake/Reservoir, Lowland Reservoir, Marsh, Yucca

Directions: Lathrop State Park is about three miles southwest of Walsenburg along US 160.

Delorme: 83 D4
Roads of Colorado: 137 E3

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: 5 am to 10 pm
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission: State Parks Pass

Restrictions: Obey park rules and regulations

Parking: Various
Lodging: Camping

Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: Wheelchair accessible, in part

Elevation: 6414

Latitude: 37.60613
Longitude: -104.84168

» Visit the website for Lathrop State Park