Barr Lake

Barr Lake SP https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/BarrLake https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barr_Lake_State_Park Barr Lake State Park is in Adams County near Brighton, Colorado. The has 12 miles (19 km) of trails, including an 8.8-mile (14.2 km) trail that circles Barr Lake. Fishing and boating are allowed in the northern half of the park. The southern half is a wildlife refuge, with several wildlife viewing stations and a nature center. Numerous bald eagles spend the winter at Barr Lake and one pair nests every year. The park is popular with birders; over 350 species have been observed. The headquarters of the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory is inside the park on the west side of the lake.

Waterfowl Hunting C O L O R A D O PA R K S & W I L D L I F E Waterfowl hunting is permitted only during the legal, regular waterfowl seasons and only on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This activity is restricted to blinds located north of the dam, and registration is required. One specially designed blind is available for physicallychallenged hunters. Contact the park office for current hunting restrictions and information. Call 1-800-846-WILD for reservations. No other hunting or trapping is permitted in the park. Fishing B arr Lake State Park provides a sanctuary for both wildlife and humans. It is a unique place to pause and re-create a kinship with nature’s world. A major prairie reservoir of over 1,900 acres forms the heart of this 2,715-acre park. The lake is lined with cottonwoods, marshes and aquatic plants, and its southern half has been designated as a wildlife refuge to shelter animals and a number and variety of birds unequalled elsewhere in Colorado. Barr Lake State Park Recreation at Barr Lake State Park takes forms that harmonize with nature. It is a park to drive to, not to drive through. ENJOY YOUR STATE PARKS Channel catfish, small and large-mouth bass, rainbow trout, walleye, bluegill and wiper are among the species that have been stocked at Barr Lake by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Review the current Colorado Fishing Regulations for special restrictions. A valid Colorado fishing license is required. Visitors may boat, fish, hike, bicycle, horseback ride, participate in nature study, bird watch and, in winter’s snows, cross-country ski. In the late 1880s, Barr Lake was an elite outing area for sportsmen from Denver. It was touted as the “finest fishing area in the west.” Later, pollution almost ruined the lake. Thankfully, laws and controls that have been in effect since the 1960s helped to stop the flow of most pollution into the lake. First Aid Since the early 1900s, Barr Lake has been known as a premier bird-watching area. Approximately 350 species of birds have been seen at the lake, making it famous on a national and international basis. Recently, it has gained fame for hosting one of only a few successful bald eagle nests on the front range. Emergency first aid is available from park rangers. Persons needing assistance should return to the park entrance station. If staff is not available dial 911 for police, fire or rescue personnel. Barr Lake State Park 13401 Picadilly Road • Brighton, CO 80603 (303) 659-6005 • Fax (303) 659-5489 E-mail: dnr_barrlake.naturecenter@state.co.us ©CPW/VERNDON TOMAJKO Management cpw.state.co.us Funded in part by Great Outdoors Colorado through Colorado Lottery proceeds. Barr Lake is co-managed for irrigation and recreation. The lake is owned and operated by the Farmers Reservoir and Irrigation Company (FRICO). The Denver-Hudson Canal, which runs along the eastern edge of Barr Lake, is owned and operated by the Henrylyn Irrigation District. Each company owns the respective land under the lake and canal, the water in them, and the irrigation control structures around them. Presently, the water in Barr Lake is stored and used for downstream irrigation purposes while recreational uses are secondary. The water in the canal by-passes the lake and fills Henrylyn irrigation reservoirs downstream. Colorado State Parks opened Barr Lake State Park in 1977 and manages recreational activities through perpetual easements with FRICO and the Henrylyn Irrigation District. CPW_HPBL_9.5k_3/19 cpw.state.co.us Park Passes All visitors entering a Colorado state park are required to display a current Colorado State Parks Pass, issued by vehicle, on their auto windshield. A daily pass is valid from the day purchased until noon the following day. An annual pass is valid at any Colorado State Park. For annual pass holders who own more than one vehicle, multiple passes are available for a reduced fee. Passes are available at the park entrance and Nature Center. Daily passes are also available at the self-service station. Colorado residents 64 years of age and over qualify for a special Aspen Leaf annual pass, available at a discounted rate. Colorado disabled veterans displaying Colorado Disabled Veteran (DV) license plates are admitted free without a pass. Park Regulations Barr Lake State Park is maintained for your enjoyment. These regulations are enforced to protect you and the natural resources of the park. 1. The park is open daily from 5 am to 10 pm. 2. P  ets must be kept under control and on a leash no longer than six feet. Pets are not permitted in the wildlife refuge. 3. Drive and park in designated areas only. 4. No swimming or wading is permitted. 5. Build fires only in provided grills. 6. N  o one is permitted on the dam face or other irrigation structures due to safety hazards. 7. H  unting and trapping are prohibited. (Exception: see the section on “Waterfowl Hunting” for information.) 8. C  ollecting any living or dead plants or wood or

Caza De “Waterfowl” La caza de “waterfowl” se permita durante las estaciones legales, regulares y sólo en días ciertos de la semana. Esta actividad se limita a lugares designados al norte de la presa, y se requiere inscripción. Se puede encontrar un lugar especial para cazadores discapacitados. Póngase en contacto con la oficina del parque para las restricciones actuales a la caza y la información. Se prohíbe otras formas de caza. Pesca Hay muchas especies diferentes de pez en el lago como “channel catfish,” “bass,” “rainbow trout,” “walleye,” “bluegill” y “wiper.” El “Colorado Parks and Wildlife” pone varios peces en el lago. Revisa las regulaciones corrientes de “Colorado Fishing” para restricciones especiales. Una licencia válida de Colorado es necesaria. C O L O R A D O PA R K S & W I L D L I F E Barr Lake State Park DISFRUTE DE SUS PARQUES ESTATALES Auxilios Se encuentra los auxilios de emergencia con los guarda parques. Las personas que necesitan asistencia deben regresar a la estación de entrada del parque. Si no encuentre ayuda, hay un teléfono público cerca de la estación de entrada del parque que se puede utilizar para marcar el 911 para la policía, los bomberos o de rescate. Barr Lake State Park 13401 Picadilly Road • Brighton, CO 80603 (303) 659-6005 • Fax (303) 659-5489 E-mail: barr.lake.nature.center@state.co.us cpw.state.co.us Fundado en parte por “Great Outdoors Colorado” con la Lotería de Colorado. Sea nuestro amigo y nos siguen en “Facebook” y “Twitter”. HPBL_SP_2.8K_3/19 cpw.state.co.us E l parque estatal Barr Lake ofrece un santuario para la fauna y los humanos. Es un lugar único para hacer una pausa y unirse con la naturaleza. Un reservorio importante que es más de 1,900 acres esta constituye en el corazón de este parque de 2,715 acres. El lago está bordeada de álamos, pantanos y plantas acuáticas, y su medio privilegiado del sur ha sido designado como refugio y un número y variedad de aves sin igual en otras partes de Colorado. Recreación en el parque estatal Barr Lake adopta formas que armonicen con la naturaleza. Los visitantes pueden pasar en bote, pescar, caminar, montar bicicletas, montar a caballos, participar en el estudio de la naturaleza, observar los aves y, en las nieves de invierno, esquí de fondo. A finales de la década de 1880, Barr Lake fue un espacio de elite área para los deportistas de Denver. Se promociona como el “área de pesca más fina en el oeste.” Más tarde, la contaminación del lago casi lo destruyó. Afortunadamente, las leyes y los controles que han estado en vigor desde la década de 1960 ayudaron a detener el flujo de la mayoría de la contaminación en el lago. Desde los principios de 1900, Barr Lake ha sido conocido como un área principal de observación de aves. Se han visto en el lago aproximadamente 350 especies de aves, lo que hace famosa a nivel nacional e internacional. Desde recientemente, se ha ganado fama por albergar uno de los pocos nidos de águila en el “Front Range”. Barr Lake es co-administrado para la irrigación y la recreación. El lago es la propiedad y está operado por el “Henrylyn Irrigation District.” Cada empresa es la propietaria de los terrenos respectivos bajo el lago y el canal, el agua, y las estructuras de control de riego que les rodea. En el presente, el agua en Barr Lake se amacena y se utiliza para el riego, mientras que los usos recreativos son secundarios. El agua del canal llena el embalse de Hanrylyn. Los Parques Estatales de Colorado abrió el parque estatal Barr Lake en 1977 y dirige las actividades recreativas con “FRICO” y el “Henrylyn Irrigation District.” Licencias del Parque Todos los visitantes que entran en un parque del estado de Colorado están obligados a mostrar una licencia corriente. Una licencia diario es válida a partir del día de compra hasta el mediodía del día siguiente. Una licencia anual es válida en todos los parques del Estado de Colorado para el resto del año calendario. Para personas que tienen licencias anuales y que poseen más de un vehículo, licencias por vehículos múltiples están disponibles para una tarifa reducida. Las licencias están disponibles en la entrada del parque y en el Centro de Visitantes. Licencias diarios también están disponibles en la estación de servicio propia. Los residentes de Colorado que tienen más de 64 años califican para una licencia anual espacial de la “Aspen Leaf ”, disponibles a un precio descontado. Veteranos discapacitados de Colorado que muestra placas de Colorado Veteranos Discapacitados (DV) entran gratis sin licencia. Regulaciones del Parque El parque estatal Barr Lake está mantenido para su uso. Estas regulaciones se aplican para proteger a usted y los recursos naturales del parque. 1. El parque está abierto todos los días 05 a.m.-10 p.m. 2. Las mascotas deben mant control y con una correa no superior a seis pies. No se permiten mascotas en el refugio de vida silvestre. 3. Conduzca y estacione en áreas designadas. 4. Se prohíbe nadar y el buc

BARR LAKE STATE PARK 

C O L O R A D O P A R K S & W I L D L I F E Barr Lake State Park FACT SHEET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017 Who we are Barr Lake State Park is a premier bird watching location in the state, with over 371 bird species identified in the park. The park offers opportunities for hiking, flat-water boating (kayaking, canoeing and sailing) and a well-stocked fishery. During the May to October season, park visitors can enjoy the Eagle Express, a motorized, guided tour of the wildlife refuge at the park. Staff and volunteers provide a number of educational and interpretive presentations for school children and other groups. Visitors to the Barr Lake State Park spend over $1.8 million annually in local communities.1 • Premier bird watching location! Great horned owls, Swainson’s hawks, great blue herons, double-crested cormorants, snowy egrets and bald eagles are just a few of the species that nest around Barr Lake. • Channel catfish, smallmouth and largemouth bass, rainbow trout, walleye, bluegill, wiper and tiger muskie are all stocked by CPW. • A 10-hp limit on boat motors on the lake makes this an ideal spot for canoeing, kayaking and day sailing. • Staff and volunteers provide education programs for school groups and for the general public, including tours of the wildlife refuge on the Eagle Express from May through October. We also have a new golf cart, “Osprey,” that is ADA accessible. • Equestrians can enjoy almost nine miles of riding trails around the lake shore and our NEW equestrian play area. • We also have an archery range with a standing range from 10-100 yard targets and a 3-D walking range with 10 stations. • Adams County • Barr Milton Watershed Association • Wild Birds Unlimited • Bird Conservancy of the Rockies • Friends of Barr Lake • Ducks Unlimited • Barr Lake State Park Volunteers • Greater Brighton Chamber of Commerce • South Metro Pheasants Forever • City of Brighton • THF Realty • West Adams Conservation District • Farmers Reservoir and Irrigation Co. • Adams County Open Space • Historically, the park is home to flocks of waterfowl and other birds due to the presence of the reservoir and adjacent vegeta-tion. Housing and other developments now surround the park, further isolating natural access corridors for wildlife. • Increased urban development near the park and resulting run-off may degrade water quality in Barr Lake. • Concerns over the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS) requires continued inspection eff orts to protect of the quality of the Barr Lake ecosystem. • Funding reductions could seriously aff ect the programs and recreational opportunities off ered at Barr Lake. Our partners Challenges we face Volunteer activities • Volunteer activities include guided hikes, tours and programs, park maintenance, visitor information, pass sales, trail construction and vegetation management. Eagle Scouts also complete 10-15 projects each year. • There are four park host positions available year round. Park hosts perform a variety of jobs ranging from working in the nature center to park maintenance. • Friends of Barr Lake, a nonprofit group that partners with Barr Lake State Park through education, recreation and conservation, contributes $20,000+ per year and volunteer time. 1Source: Corona Research, Colorado State Parks Marketing Assessment, “Visitor Spending Analysis 2008-2009” (adjusted for inflation). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 (303) 297-1192 cpw.state.co.us VERDON TOMAJKO/CPW Top attractions 13401 Picadilly Road, Brighton, CO 80603 (303) 659-6005 • Email: barr.lake.nature.center@state.co.us Park Manager: Michelle Seubert As of June 30 , 2017 Manager’s Message In 2017, we completed our nature center renovation project. This was made possible through the support of many partners. With the nature center, Barr Lake strives to be a leader in environmental education. We hope to inspire people with our events and facilities to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Geography Region: Northeast County: Adams Year Acquired: 1975 Elevation: 5,100 ft Miles From Denver: 25 Employees Permanent: 3 Temporary: 8 Volunteers: 408 Volunteer Hours: 14,311 Trails Biking: 21 miles Hiking: 21.9 miles Horseback: 16.5 miles Cross Country Skiing/ Snowshoeing: 21.5 miles Total: 21.9 miles Annual Visitation 146,236 Acreage and Ownership Total Acres: 3,597 Roads Paved: 2 miles Facilities Archery Range Boat Ramp Group Picnic Area 60 Picnic Sites Nature Center Governmental US Cong Dist: 4th CO Senate: 25th CO House: 30th Recreation Archery Boating Fishing Geocaching Hunting Ice Fishing Ranger/Nature Programs Sailboarding Wildlife/Bird Viewing Walden Fort Collins Craig Hayden Steamboat Springs Sterling Estes Loveland Park Greeley Oak Creek Fort Brush Morgan Meeker Kremmling Wray Brighton Denver Golden Barr Lake Avon Vail Rifle Frisco Glenwood Springs Breckenridge Collbran Fruita Aspen Leadville Castle Rock Limo

Towhee Finch ___ Green-tailed ___ Rufus-sided ___ Spotted ___Gray-crowned Rosy Finch ___ Purple Finch ___ Cassin’s Finch Um Vm Um Sparrows ___ Cassin’s ___ House Finch ___ Lesser Gold ___ American Gold ___ Common Redpoll ___ Pine Siskin ___ American Tree ___ Chipping ___ Clay-colored ___ Brewer’s Rs Cw Am Um Um ___ Fox Sparrow ___ Field ___ House Sparrow ___ Vesper Sparrow ___ Lark Sparrow Rw Vm Ap Cm Us Crossbill ___ Black-throated ___ Harris’ Sparrow ___ Savannah ___ Grasshopper ___ Song ___ Lincoln Vm Rw Um Rs Cp Um Junco ___ Swamp Rw ___ White-crowned Cw ___ White-throated Rw ___ Red Crossbill Warbler ___Golden-crowned Um ___Golden ___ Ruby-crowned Ruby Cm ___ Audubon’s ___ Myrtle Vm Vm Gnatcatcher ___ American Redstart ___ Common yellow-throat Cs Vw Cp Vm Rw Cw Thrush Vm ___ Blue-gray Blue ___ American Robin ___ Gray-cheeked Gray ___ Swainson’s ___ Hermit ___ Wood Woo ___ Varied ___ Bluebird ___ Gray Catbird ___ Northern ___ Dark-eyed ___ Oregon ___ Pink-sided ___ Slate-colored ___ Gray-headed Cw ___ Evening Grosbeak ___ Rose-breasted ___ Black-headed ___ Blue ___ Chestnut-colored Vm ___ Lapland Uw ___ McCown’s Vm ___ Northern Rw Rm Rm Um Vm Bunting ___ Snow vm ___ Lazuli ___ Indigo ___ Lark Um Rm Us ___ American ___ Bohemian ___ Cedar ___ Northern ___ Loggerhead Ap Cs Rw Cp Starling Cs ___ White-eyed White ___ Bell’s ___ Solitary ___ Orchard ___ Baltimore ___ Bullock’s Rs Vm Cs Um Um V Vm ___ Yellow-throated ___Pine ___ Palm ___ Bay-breasted ___ Blackpolled ___ Black & White Vm Vm Vm Vm Rm Rm Uw ___ Worm eating ___ Ovenbird ___ No Waterthrush Vm Rm Rm Rw Rw ___ Kentucky ___ Connecticut ___ MacGillivay”s ___ Hooded Warbler Vm Vm Um Vm ___ Wilson’s ___ Yellow-breasted ___ Townsend’s ___ Yellow-rumped Am Rm Um Cm Shrike ___ Red-winged ___ Yelllow-headed ___ Rusty ___ Brewer’s ___ Brownheaded Cowbird Oriole ___ Chestnut-sided Rm ___ Magnolia Vm ___ Black-throated Blue Vm ___ Blackburnian Vm Waxwing Vm As Rm Um Rs Pipits ___ Bobolink ___ Common ___ Great-tailed ___ Blue-winged ___ Golden-winged ___ Tennessee ___ Orange-crowned ___ Nashville ___ Virginia’s ___ Northern Parula ___ Yellow Thrasher ___ Sage ___ Brown ___ Long-billed Long ___ Curved-billed Curved Field Notes: AP Vm Cm Um Vm Vm Grosbeak Cardinals Grackle Rm Mockingbird Longspur Blackbirds Kinglets Vw Uw Vm Vm Rm Cm Rm Rm Vm As Tanager ___ European Ap ___ Summer ___ Scarlet ___ Western Vm Vm Um Vireo Vm Vm Um Cardinal ___ Yellow-throated Yellow Vm ___ Plumbeous Kingbird ___ Northern ___ Cassin’s ___ Western * ___ Eastern BIRD CHECKLIST Vm Rm As Cs All sightings of species marked Very Rare on this list and all species not on this list should be documented. Notify the Park staff as soon as possible or contact the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory at 303-659-4348. 4348. Written details on the sighting and a description of the birds would be very appreciated. Special thanks to Dave Rhoades, Mike Carter, Bob Andrews, and Tony Leukering for their assistance in developing this checklist. Barr Lake State Par Park Revised Feb. 2012 BARR LAKE STATE PARK DATE _______TOTAL TOTAL SPECIES ______ WEATHER___________________________ TIME IN FIELD ______________________ OBSERVERS _________________________ ________________________________________ Bird Checklist Barr Lake State Park This checklist contains the names and indicates the occurrences of the 346 species of birds (the most for any area in Colorado) that have been sighted at and near Barr Lake over the years. Birders have been flocking to Barr Lake since the reservoir was created in the 1880’s. Field records of bird sightings date back to this time. Several prominent ornithologists, including Robert Niedrach, Alfred Bailey, and Robert Rockwell, explored the area seeking to document the rich variety of birdlife. Breeding Species ___ Snow Goose * Current or recent breeder ___ Ross’ Goose # Historic breeder, no longer ___ Brant breeds in the area. ___ Canada Goose* ___ Wood Duck* Rm Rm Rm Ap Us Loons Cp ___ Pacific Loon ___ Common Loon Grebs ___ Pied- billed * ___ Horned ___ Red-necked ___ Eared ___ Western * ___ Clark’s Located in what was short grass prairie, the lake is an oasis for wildlife offering a unique combination of grassland, forest, lake and marsh. Please help protect this valuable habitat. Pelican ___ American White For more information, please contact: Cormorant Barr Lake State Park 13401 Picadilly Road Brighton, CO 80601 303-659- 6005 Abundance (in proper habitat and season) A – Abundant: Will see most days in proper habitat In proper season. C - Common: Likely to see. Occurs regularly in proper habitat and proper season. U – Uncommon: Possible to see. Occurs annually, But not seen regularly. R – Rare: Occurs infrequently. May not be seen on an annual basis. V – Very Rare: Fewer than 10 records, unlikely to see. Should be sought in designated areas. E – Extirpated: No longer occurs in

At 4-6 weeks, the eaglets may be seen moving about in the nest. New feathers begin to appear, and the young continue to grow, until they weigh 5.5 -7.5 pounds. BALD EAGLE NESTING CHRONOLOGY AT BARR LAKE COURTSHIP AND NEST BUILDING EGG LAYING 3-5 DAYS INCUBATION 35 DAYS HATCHING 2-3 DAYS NESTLING PERIOD 72 DAYS FLEDGING FAMILY DISPERSAL NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT More than eight months are needed for a Bald Eagle pair to successfully raise young. During this time, almost anything can go wrong. On average, only about half of all eagle nests that are started end successfully with at least one new eagle produced. This chart explains the phases through which the Barr Lake eagle pair progress in order to raise young. The Bald Eagles at Barr Lake The story of Bald Eagles at Barr Lake probably began over a hundred years ago, when an irrigation reservoir was built in an area that was once a buffalo wallow. As the years passed, cottonwood trees grew old and tall. Fish and waterfowl, as well as many other kinds of wildlife, flourished in and around the lake. In 1977, this area was recognized as a valuable wildlife habitat and Barr Lake became a state park. Half of the lake was set aside as a wildlife refuge. A pair of Bald Eagles has been observed in the refuge every year since 1986. Since that time, they have survived storms, the loss of a nesting tree, and even the disappearance of the male. After 3 years of failed attempts to raise young, the Bald Eagle pair was finally successful in 1989. As of 2005, the Barr Lake eagle have produced 32 young. Twenty-nine of these survived to fledge. habitat, we can look forward to the presence of these birds and their young for many years to come. An eagle nest may be added to and reused for as long as 20 years, or a pair may use another nest site. With continued protection of their Eaglet Growth and Development Newly-hatched eaglets weigh only 1/4 pound, but will grow quickly in the first 3 months. A 1-2 week old eaglet already weighs approximately 2 pounds! The young grow quickly on a diet of fish and prairie dogs and they are able to leave the nest at 10-12 weeks of age. The Barr Lake eaglets are 3-4 weeks old by mid-April. With their dark gray, thick, wooly down, the young look large, but weigh only 3.5 to 5.5 pounds. From May to June, the art of self-feeding is acquired in preparation for fledging. The wooly down is replaced by dark brown feathers, and the birds may weigh up to 11 pounds. At the time they fledge, young Bald Eagles are as big as their parents. The all-white head and tail of the adult Bald Eagle takes 4-6 years to develop, and is a sign of sexual maturity. How and Where to See the Eagles The best viewing of the eagles' nest is from the Gazebo, only a 1.3-mile walk south of the Nature Center into the wildlife refuge. The nest is approximately a quarter mile from the Gazebo and is easily seen with binoculars. The Nature Center loans binoculars and features a display about eagles. The Nature Center is open Wednesday-Sunday. Call 303-659-6005 for specific hours. The Barr Lake Bald Eagle Watch You can participate in studies of the bald eagles by joining the Bald Eagle Watch. Volunteers receive training and observe the birds throughout the nesting period. During observations, watchers gather important information about eagle behaviors, food brought to the nest, and general habitat use by the eagles. If you’re interested in becoming an eagle watcher, call the Colorado Bird Observatory education line at (303) 637-9220. The Bald Eagle Watch is administered by the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory and Barr Lake State Park. Funding has been provided by donations from individuals, agencies, corporate sponsors, and Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory members. The Bald Eagle Nest at Barr Lake Tail feather from an immature Bald Eagle A few tips for eagle viewing: • Bring binoculars or a spotting scope for viewing the nest. • Viewing is usually best during the morning or evening hours, especially on warm days when heat waves can interfere with your ability to see. • The eagles are sensitive to human activity. Please stay on designated trails in the wildlife refuge. Pets are not permitted. • Stop by the Nature Center for a look at the display about eagles. • A park pass is required on all vehicles. This brochure is provided by: Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory and Colorado State Parks 

COLORADO PA R K S & WILDLIFE Your Guide to Colorado’s 41 State Parks 2018 Edition cpw.state.co.us CAMPING RESERVATIONS • 1-800-244-5613 • cpw.state.co.us i Welcome to Your State Parks! Wherever you go in Colorado, there’s Cheyenne Mountain a state park waiting to welcome State Park you. Mountains or prairies, rivers or forests, out in the country or next to the city… Colorado’s 41 state parks are as diverse as the state itself, and they offer something for everyone. Take a hair-raising whitewater river trip, or kick back in a lawn chair and watch the sunset. Enjoy a family picnic, cast a line in the water, take a hike, ride a horse, try snowshoeing or discover geocaching. From Eastern Plains parks at 3,800 feet to high-mountain parks at 9,500, the network of state parks offers a wealth of activities for busy people of all ages, or the chance to do nothing at all. You can play on land or on water. On a high peak or on the prairie. In the country or the city. In spring, summer, winter or fall. Golden Gate Canyon State Park State parks are great places for families. There are plenty of activities for families to enjoy together such as boating, hiking or picnicking, as well as organized nature walks, talks and events. Junior Ranger programs, activity backpacks, kid-friendly hikes and fishing ponds for kids are among the many offerings for youth. From toddler to teen and adult to senior, every family member can enjoy their activity of choice, then come together to share a meal and stories around the campfire. Whether you’re an active outdoor recreationist or prefer to spend time watching clouds go by, you’ll enjoy the special moments waiting for you in the state parks. Rifle Gap State Park Cover photos: Large photo: State Forest State Park; lower left: Pearl Lake State Park; lower center: Elkhead State Park; lower right: Lory State Park Plan Your Visit Colorado’s state parks are open every day of the year, weather permitting. Day-use areas are generally open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and some parks may have closed gates after hours. Campgrounds are open 24 hours a day. Contact individual parks for hours of operation. Check our website for seasonal or maintenance closures: cpw.state.co.us Entrance Passes All Colorado state parks charge an entrance fee. Cost of a daily pass may vary by park ($7–$9). A pass covers all occupants of a vehicle and is valid until noon the day after purchase. Some parks may charge a per-person fee for cyclists and walk-ins. Fees are used to help pay operating costs. Cherry Creek State Park charges an additional fee for the Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority. Annual Pass Who doesn’t love a deal? And the state parks annual pass is a great one. For just one low price, the annual pass lets you enjoy all 41 state parks for unlimited visits for 12 months from date of purchase. That’s all the parks. That’s unlimited times. The annual pass pays for itself in as few as 10 visits. If you’re a Colorado resident who’s 64 years or older, there’s even a further discounted Aspen Leaf annual pass. There are also passes for disabled and income-eligible residents. For details and to purchase a pass, visit a Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) office, state park or buy online: cpw.state.co.us Extend Your Stay Make more of your state park visit by staying overnight. Bring your tent or RV, spend a cozy night in a cabin, camp in a tipi or discover a comfortable, year-round alternative State Forest State Park to traditional camping with a yurt. All together, the state parks have more than 4,000 campsites and 58 cabins and yurts. Almost 300 campsites are ADA accessible. Many parks offer campsites or cabins for large groups. Heated cabins and yurts make a park getaway suitable any season of the year. Camping Reservations Summer weekends fill up quickly so advance reservations for overnight stays are recommended. Reservations can be made six months to three days ahead of arrival. Reserve online: cpw.state.co.us Toll Free: 1-800-244-5613 A nonrefundable reservation fee applies to bookings, and visitors must purchase a daily or annual entrance pass in addition to paying camping and reservation fees. Unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 1 What Can I Do There? Colorado’s state parks are places to have fun, get away, recreate and re-create. Here are some park activities to help you do that: Fishing Top-notch fishing awaits anglers in 37 state parks across Colorado. Think Gold Medal Waters and trophy fish. A valid fishing license is required for all anglers 16 years and older. Licenses and our annual Colorado Fishing regulations brochure are available online, at most parks and at CPW authorized sales agents. Water Sports Many state parks are built around a lake or Crawford waterway, which means boating and other water State Park sports are among the headliners. Larger parks offer boat rentals and full-service marinas. Any boat with a motor or sail operated in Col

C O L O R A D O P A R K S & W I L D L I F E 2020 Colorado State Recreation Lands INSIDE: STATE FISH UNITS, STATE WILDLIFE AREAS, STATE TRUST LANDS, STATE PARKS cpw.state.co.us ONLINE FEATURES Check out more Colorado Parks & Wildlife on our VIMEO & YOUTUBE CHANNELS LINKS TO MAPS MAKE CAMPING & HUNTING RESERVATIONS ONLINE! STATE WILDLIFE AREAS STATE FISHING WATERS STATE TRUST LANDS STATE PARKS Cherry Creek State Park © Nora Logue VIDEOS CHECK OUT THE 360 VIDEOS OF COLORADO’S STATE PARKS! 101 PLACES TO TAKE A KID FISHING #TAKEAKIDFISHING G.E.M. TRAIL NOW OPEN IN STEAMBOAT SPRINGS! CONTENTS CONTENTS Printed for free distribution by: WHAT’S NEW: 2020................................................1 cpw.state.co.us COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 ■ 303-297-1192 RESERVATIONS......................................................1 OUR MISSION: The mission of Colorado Parks and Wildlife is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado’s natural resources. ■ Abbreviation key................................................................................1 STATE FISH UNITS (SFUs)........................................2 ■ What is an SFU?..................................................................................2 ■ SFU properties & regulations..............................................................2 COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE DIRECTOR Dan Prenzlow COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION MEMBERS, as of July 2020 STATE WILDLIFE AREAS (SWAs)......................... 3–29 Marvin McDaniel, Chair Carrie Besnette Hauser, Vice-Chair Marie Haskett, Secretary Taishya Adams Betsy Blecha Charles Garcia Dallas May ■ What is an SWA?.................................................................................3 ■ SWA access rules................................................................................3 ■ SWA properties & regulations..................................................... 4–29 STATE TRUST LANDS (STLs) PUBLIC ACCESS PROGRAM.............................. 30–51 ■ What are trust lands? What is the STL public access program?.............30 ■ State trust lands FAQs/access rules...................................................30 ■ State trust lands public access properties & regulations............ 31–51 REGULATION BROCHURE EDITOR Chelsea Harlan PRINTED STATE PARKS................................................. 52–59 The Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife (CPW) receives federal financial assistance from multiple bureaus within the U.S. Department of the Interior. Under Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act (as amended), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (as amended), the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the U.S. Department of the Interior and its bureaus prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability or age. In addition, CPW adheres to all antidiscrimination laws of the state of Colorado. For more information on how to request an accommodation or to file a grievance, please visit cpw.state.co.us/accessibility. MAPS............................................................ 60–65 ■ State fish units, wildlife areas, trust lands & parks — Northeast ..........60 ■ State fish units, wildlife areas, trust lands & parks — Southeast ..........61 ■ State fish units, wildlife areas, trust lands & parks — Northwest .........62 ■ State fish units, wildlife areas, trust lands & parks — Southwest ........63 ■ NEW State fish units, wildlife areas, trust lands & parks — Central close-up.............................64 ■ Game management units (GMUs)....................................................65 NOTICE: Laws and regulations in this brochure are paraphrased for easier understanding and are intended only as a guide. Complete Colorado wildlife statutes and regulations are available at CPW offices listed below and online: cpw.state.co.us/regulations CPW REGIONAL AND AREA OFFICE LOCATIONS ADMINISTRATION 1313 Sherman St., #618 Denver, 80203 303-297-1192 (M–F, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. MT) LANDS INDEX BY COUNTY............................... 66–73 ■ State fish units, state wildlife areas, state trust lands, state parks GET THE BROCHURE ONLINE: cpw.state.co.us/rec-lands Send us your outdoor photos and stories for a chance to be featured on a brochure cover or CPW's online blog! HUNTER.TESTIMONIALS@STATE.CO.US COVER: ▶ Gone fishing at Sylvan Lake State Park. © Dustin Doskocil for CPW OTHER PHOTOS, LEFT TO RIGHT: ▶ Mountain biking at Trinidad Lake State Park. © Thomas Kimmell for CPW C O L O R A D O P A R K S & INSIDE: STATE FISH UNITS, STAT

WHAT'S NEW C O L O R A D O P A R K S & LICENSES W I L D L I F E 2021 Colorado Fishing SEASON: MARCH 1, 2021–MARCH 31, 2022 cpw.state.co.us 2021 FISHING BROCHURE CORRECTION UPDATED: APRIL 19, 2021 Please see the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website at cpw.state.co.us/regulations for complete regulation information. NOTE: THE ONLINE VERSION OF THE BROCHURE HAS THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION, INCLUDING ANY CORRECTIONS. PAGE(S) CORRECTION AS PRINTED IN BROCHURE LICENSE REQUIREMENTS PAGE 1 The qualifying age for applying for a senior lifetime low-income fishing license was incorrectly listed as 65 and older at the time of publication. The correct information is: Senior lifetime low-income fishing licenses are available for Colorado residents age 64 and older. Go online for full eligibility requirements: cpw.state. co.us The online version of the brochure has been updated with this correction. page 1 2021 FISHING BROCHURE CORRECTION UPDATED: MARCH 12, 2021 Please see the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website at cpw.state.co.us/regulations for complete regulation information. NOTE: THE ONLINE VERSION OF THE BROCHURE HAS THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION, INCLUDING ANY CORRECTIONS. PAGE(S) CORRECTION AS PRINTED IN BROCHURE BACK PAGE BACK COVER The contest start date for Take a Friend Fishing was incorrect at the time of publication. The correct information is: The contest starts APRIL 1, 2021! Go online for contest rules and how to enter: cpw.state.co.us/ takeafriend The online version of the brochure has been updated with this correction. back cover ONLINE FEATURES Check out more Colorado Parks & Wildlife on our VIMEO & YOUTUBE CHANNELS VIDEOS FISHING FOR HIP HOP: COLORADO STYLE FISHING FUNDS CONSERVATION 101 PLACES TO TAKE A KID FISHING © CPW GET THE CPW FISHING APPS: The CPW Fishing app can help you discover over 1,300 fishing locations, check local conditions, read up on regulations and more! The CPW Match a Hatch app can help you match your fly to the same insects where you’re fishing! CO OUTDOORS “QUICK TIP”: SPINCAST REELS CONTENTS CONTENTS Printed for free distribution by: WHAT’S NEW: 2021................................................ 1 cpw.state.co.us LICENSE INFORMATION...................................... 1–2 COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 ■ 303-297-1192 ■ License & Habitat Stamp fees........................................................................1 ■ What you need to buy a fishing license; license requirements......................1 ■ Residency requirements; Habitat Stamps; anglers with disabilities..............2 OUR MISSION: The mission of Colorado Parks and Wildlife is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado’s natural resources. GENERAL INFORMATION.................................... 3–7 Dan Prenzlow ■ Fishery programs: Gold Medal Waters; Wild Trout; stream surveys.................3 ■ State records program: Records by Weight; Records by Length......................4 ■ State Records by Weight award table.............................................................4 ■ Master Angler program; award lengths.........................................................5 ■ Help improve your fisheries............................................................................5 ■ Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS).....................................................................6 ■ Fishing terms glossary...................................................................................7 ■ Online fishing information resources.............................................................7 FISHING LAWS................................................. 8–10 ■ Legal fishing methods....................................................................................8 ■ Special conditions & restrictions...............................................................8−9 ■ Statewide bag & possession limits...............................................................10 ■ MAP: Wiper/white bass & walleye/saugeye bag limits................................10 SPECIAL REGULATIONS: FISHING WATERS........11–39 ■ MAP: Upper Arkansas River.........................................................................12 ■ MAP: Blue River Basin.................................................................................13 ■ MAP: Middle Colorado & Eagle Rivers..........................................................15 ■ MAP: Upper Colorado River — Headwaters to Radium...............................16 ■ MAP: Conejos & Alamosa River Drainages...................................................18 ■ MAP: Upper Gunnison Basin — Taylor Park Res. to Blue Mesa Res..............19 ■ MAP: NEW North Fork Gunnison Basin — Hotchkiss to McClure