WHITE RIVER NATIONAL FOREST
1,960,760 acres. Comprised of two huge tracts in the Rockies of west-central Colorado, White River National Forest includes some outstanding high mountain wilderness, with lofty peaks and some elevations over 14,000 feet.
There are also deep canyons, a 10,000-foot high plateau, many rock formations, conifer-forested slopes, and hilly grasslands, plus numerous lakes and streams. Elk, black bear, mule deer, mountain lion, and coyote are among the wildlife.
The forest has seven designated wilderness areas: 196,360 acres of the 235,230-acre Flat Tops Wilderness, 159,000 acres of the 174,000-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, 113,000 acres of the 120,000-acre Holy Cross Wilderness, the 74,250-acre Hunter-F ryingpan Wilderness, 51,000 acres of the 134,000-acre Eagles Nest Wilderness, 35,000 acres of the 159,900-acre Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, and 17,000 acres of the 59,000-acre Raggeds Wilderness.
Activities: Backpacking and hiking are possible on more than 1,400 miles of trails, most of which are open to horseback riding. Difficulty varies from easy to very strenuous. Many trails are snow-free only from July through September, and some receive heavy use.
Mountain biking is allowed on trails outside of wilderness areas. Cross-country skiing is available during winter. Limited white-water rafting and kayaking are possible on some of the rivers which run through the forest. Rock climbing is another option. Hunting and fishing are permitted in season.
Camping Regulations: Camping and campfires are allowed throughout most of the forest, except where otherwise prohibited. No permits are necessary. Campsites should be at least 100 feet from trails and water sources. Fires are restricted in some portions of designated wilderness areas. A stove is recommended. Group size is limited to 10 in the Eagles Nest Wilderness.
For Further Information: White River National Forest, P.O. Box 948, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602;(303)945-2521.
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