· Peak to Peak

Mount Evans State Wildlife Area

Aliases: Echo Lake Lodge, Chicago Creek Road

Not to be confused with the famous Mt. Evans, this State Wildlife Area actually has some beautiful mature Ponderosa forest, with possible species including Williamson’s Sapsucker, Pygmy Nuthatch, Western Bluebird, and Cassin’s Finch.  Please note: this State Wildlife Area is completely closed to public access between January 1 to June 14, as it is critical winter and breeding grounds for elk. Additionally, use is restricted to only fishing and hunting activities from the day after Labor Day to (typically) mid-November.  Vehicles are restricted from entering the day after Labor Day until June 14. Be sure to check current hunting, fishing and land use regulations when planning to visit a State Wildlife Area.

County: Clear Creek

Directions: From I-70: exit at CO 74/Evergreen Pkwy and go 6 miles south to Evergreen Lake. At the lake, go west on Upper Bear Creek Rd for 6.5 miles. The road will fork - stay to the right and continue west, as Bear Creek Rd turns into CR 480. CR 480 will fork a second time; stay to the left and continue to the SWA.

Dates of Access: June 15 to December 31
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission: 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.

Restrictions: Please obey all CPW rules and regulations. Only fishing and hunting activities allowed from the day after Labor Day to the end of 4th Rifle Season.

Parking: Dirt parking area
Lodging: Hotels in Idaho Springs and at El Rancho, Evergreen Parkway exit.

Handicapped Access: Limited birding from the car

Latitude: 39.62207
Longitude: -105.46971

» Visit the website for Mount Evans State Wildlife Area