Neota Wilderness: Routt NF
Designated in 1980, Neota Wilderness now spans a total of 9,924 acres. Bordering Rocky Mountain National Park to the south and surrounded by other Wildernesses, Neota Wilderness is within a large region of mostly roadless country. Elevation ranges from 10,000 to 11,896 feet and includes the flattened ridges of granite atypical of the steep-sided Rockies. It is co-managed by the Routt National Forest and the Arapaho/Roosevelt National Forest. Neota Wilderness is included in the Troublesome Area for geographical reference on this website.
Just southwest of the Wilderness boundary, the 12,265’ Iron Mountain overlooks three main drainages within the area: Trap, Corral, and Neota Creeks. Along the valleys of these streams, willows and sedges grow abundantly. You'll find spruce and fir on the lower slopes, home to deer and elk. There are only 1.5 miles of a single, primitively maintained trail in this Wilderness, so this area is for the adventurous recreator. Please plan carefully.
Always use Leave No Trace techniques to help keep this area wild, clean, and pristine. Visit the Wilderness.net page for Neota Wilderness.
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.
