Platoro Reservoir
Although you are not likely to see many birds on Platoro Reservoir itself, the surrounding forest can be good for high-elevation species. The best spruce-fir woodland in the area is along FR 380 north of the reservoir; Boreal Owl occurs in the area. Day or night, you might have to wait for herds of elk to cross the road in front of you from one meadow to the next. Although Platoro Reservoir itself has no facilities, there are several lodges with cabins, restaurants, and general stores nearby.
Restrictions: None
County: Conejos
Attractions: Concessions and gift shops in town.
Directions: From Antonito, travel 22.5 miles west on State Route 17 to FR 250. Take a right onto FR 250 and follow it for 24 miles to FR 247. Go left onto FR 247. A smaller lake is .4 miles along FR 247, and the actual reservoir starts at .6 miles from FR 250.
Alternate Directions: From South Fork, head west on US160 for 7 miles to Park Creek Road (FR 380), on the left. Turn and go 27 miles to a 'T' with FR 250. Turn right and go 4.5 miles to FR 247. Turn right and go about a mile to the reservoir. You can also reach this site by heading west from Antonito on CO 17 for 23 miles to FR 250, on the right. Turn, and go 24 miles to the intersection with FR 247 as described above.
Habitat: Reservoir, Spruce-Fir Forest, Mountain Meadow, Streamside Willow
Dates of Access: Roads not maintained in winter
Hours: Any
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Parking near the dam and boat ramp, otherwise mostly roadside.
Lodging: Cabins and lodges in town of Platoro. Camping.
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Delorme: 89 B5
ROC: 1.49E+03
Latitude: 37.3402679
Longitude: -106.565773
Visit the Website for Platoro Reservoir »
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L8066118