Mount Zirkel Wilderness

The United States Congress designated the Mount Zirkel Wilderness in 1964 as one of the original areas protected under the Wilderness Act. It has a total of 159,935 acres. All of this wilderness is located in northwestern Colorado and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This Wilderness area is home to the headwaters of the Elk, Encampment and North Platte Rivers, as well as some 70 lakes, high mountain peaks, including Mount Zirkel at 12,180 feet, and a portion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. It straddles the Continental Divide and encompasses the rugged Sawtooth Range, as well as portions of the Park and Sierra Madre ranges.

There are numerous dispersed camping opportunities, as well as several developed campgrounds nearby, such as, Big Creek Lakes, Seedhouse, Summit Lake and Teal Lake Campgrounds. Visit Wilderness.net page for more information on the Mount Zirkel Wilderness and refer to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Map.

Trails/Trailheads that access Mount Zirkel Wilderness include:

General Information

Topo maps

Forest Service Topography Maps: These maps overlay Forest Service assets, such as roads, trails and campgrounds, on USGS's topographic maps. They are available for download by quadrangle.

Paper and digital maps

USGS Store: Offers a full, nationwide selection of National Forest, Ranger District, Wilderness and Specialty Maps for purchase online or by phone.

Motorized equipment and vehicles are prohibited, including motorcycles, chain saws, bicycles and carts. Wheelchairs are exempt.

Group size limit is 12 people with livestock combined.

Camping & campfires are prohibited within 100 feet, or more if posted, of all lakes, streams & trails to protect water quality. Thin soil & mountain vegetation are easily damaged by fire & fires scar rocks & soil. Use of a stove, fire pan or existing fire ring is encouraged where fires are allowed.

Pets must be under voice control at all times.

Grazing stock must not be hobbled, tethered or picketed within 100 feet, or more if posted, of any lakes, streams or trails. This protects fragile vegetation & keeps lakes & streams clean.

Certified weed-free forage is required. Only pelletized or steam-rolled feed grains, or certified weed-free hay, straw or mulch are allowed.

Permit is required for organized groups or commercial outfitters entering the Wilderness.

Short-cutting switchbacks on trails is prohibited.

Fees vary among sites.