ALTURAS, California — A short trip outside Alturas leads to a federally managed wildlife refuge with wetlands, native habitat and a public auto-tour route. Autumn is one of the best times to see migratory birds there, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, but not every section of the refuge has the same access rules.
What is open for public visits?
The Modoc National Wildlife Refuge visitor guide lists the tour route and walking trail as open from 7 a.m. until sunset. The refuge’s three-mile auto tour circles Teal Pond and offers opportunities to observe birds and mammals. A paved walking trail and parking area near the end of the route allow visitors to leave their vehicles in a designated place.
The headquarters visitor center is generally open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., excluding holidays. Because occasional early closures are possible, the agency advises visitors to check ahead. The refuge’s main address is 5364 County Road 115, Alturas.
October brings both migration and restrictions
The Fish and Wildlife Service says bird diversity is especially notable in September and October, as well as April and May. Visitors may see more birds during the morning and evening. Bring binoculars, keep distance from wildlife and do not leave the marked route.
A separate rule matters in fall: Dorris Reservoir is closed to public use during waterfowl hunting season, October 1 through January 31, to provide a sanctuary for birds. That restriction must not be confused with closure of the entire refuge: the marked auto-tour route and public walking trail have different hours and access rules.
Directions and visitor checklist
From Alturas, the refuge agency instructs travelers to follow Highway 395 south, turn onto County Road 56 and then County Road 115, using the posted entrance road. Check the official map before setting out. On the auto-tour route, the speed limit is 10 mph, and visitors must stay on the designated route. Leashed dogs are permitted on the public tour route, but pets must remain under control.
- Pack binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens rather than approaching birds.
- Observe the reservoir’s seasonal closure; do not assume all water access is permitted.
- Stay on designated driving and walking routes, and pack out trash.
- Watch for winter weather in the high-elevation Modoc region.
- For visitor center questions use the refuge’s official website and its posted contacts.
Sources: USFWS — Modoc National Wildlife Refuge: Visit Us; USFWS — Visitor Activities.
Related: Modoc Medical Center geothermal project. More local reports at Alturas News.
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