Mill Creek Road
Just east of Pagosa Springs is some of the best ponderosa pine forest in the state. Towards the end of FR 029, Williamson’s Sapsucker is the most common woodpecker, and you can also find good numbers of Virginia’s and Grace’s Warblers, Red Crossbills, and even Band-tailed Pigeons. This is the habitat in which you can find the striking Abert’s Squirrel, and it is exactly the kind of remote, lush area where you might catch a bear or a bobcat crossing the road.
Restrictions: None
County: Archuleta
Directions: From US 160 just east of Pagosa Spring, head south on US 84. A quarter mile south of US 160, turn left (east) on Mill Creek Road (CR 302). A little over six miles up the road, turn right onto FR 665, then take another right in a little under three miles on FR 029. This road goes through excellent habitat, particularly near its end.
Alternate Directions: From Pagosa Springs, head east on US160 for a mile to US84 and turn right. Take an almost immediate left onto Mill Creek Road and go 7 miles to the end of the road. The birding can be good anywhere after the first 4-5 miles.
Habitat: Ponderosa Forest
Dates of Access: Roads not maintained in winter
Hours: Any
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Roadside, and unpaved parking areas
Lodging: Primitive camping
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Delorme: 88 B2
ROC: 148 C2
Latitude: 37.2720455
Longitude: -106.874661