Owl Creek Pass Road
This is a remote and beautiful area with some terrific views of the north San Juan mountains. The gravel roads wind through mountain meadows, aspen groves, and spruce-fir forests. The birdlife is diverse; look for Mountain Bluebirds, Fox Sparrows, Dusky Flycatchers, and in the spruce-fir, Three-toed Woodpecker or even Northern Goshawk. Butterflies here may include Mustard White and Queen Alexandra’s Sulphur. This is part of the area where Lynx have been reintroduced, but you will be exceedingly lucky to see one.
Restrictions: None
County: Gunnison
Directions: From the junction of US 50 and 550 in Montrose, head east 21.8 miles on US 50 and turn right onto Cimarron Road (not to be confused with 'Little Cimarron Road, a mile farther east). Follow this road a couple of miles to a 'T' intersection and bear left onto Montrose CR P77, which becomes FR 858, the Owl Creek Pass Road.
Alternate Directions: From Gunnison, head west on US50 for 28 miles to Cimarron Road. Turn left and go about 19 miles to the top of the pass. The birding can be good on both sides of the pass.
Habitat: Mountain Meadows, Aspen Grove, Spruce-Fir Forest
Dates of Access: Roads closed in winter and spring
Hours: Any
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Roadside
Lodging: USFS campgrounds along FR 858
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Delorme: 67 C5
ROC: 123 E2
Latitude: 38.298854
Longitude: -107.574617