Rainbow Lake Road (CR 724)
Aliases: West Elk Wilderness, South Baldy
A summertime destination, this road climbs from the shores of Blue Mesa Reservoir into the high montane forests, passing through sagebrush and montane shrub habitats along the way. In the sagebrush look for Sage Thrashers and Brewer’s Sparrows; in the shrublands, for Green-tailed Towhees and MacGillivray’s Warblers. The high country can produce Clark’s Nutcracker, Gray Jay, Red Crossbills, and Pine Grosbeak. Mule deer are numerous here, and you might see elk or even bear. Alpine areas are accessible by hiking and only those in good physical condition should attempt to climb South Baldy. There is a camping area at Rainbow Lake. Make sure to bring your camera! The wildflowers are stunning in this area, especially in July.
Restrictions: None
County: Gunnison
Attractions: Wildflowers in summer
Directions: Go west of Gunnison on US 50 to milepost 143 (14.3 miles). Rainbow Lake Road (FS724) is on the north side of the reservoir and offers easy and productive access to higher elevations.
Alternate Directions: From Gunnison, head west on US50 for 14.5 miles to Rainbow Lake Road, on the right.
Habitat: Sagebrush, Grassland/Prairie, Lowland Riparian, Aspen Grove, Mixed Conifer Forest, Spruce-Fir Forest, Krummholz, Alpine Tundra
Dates of Access: Most of road closed in winter
Hours: Any
Ownership: BLM/US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free
Parking: Roadside; gravel parking at trailheads
Lodging: Primitive camping, or hotels in Gunnison
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Viewing from car
Delorme: 68 A1
ROC: 100 B3
Latitude: 38.47319
Longitude: -107.144645