Wilderness Areas
With the passage of the Wilderness Act in 1964, Congress created the National Wilderness Preservation System. Wilderness areas are managed to preserve their natural conditions and wild character for present and future generations. They possess outstanding ecological, geological, scientific, educational, scenic, or historic values.
Please view the special regulations associated with Wilderness and always use Leave No Trace techniques to help keep these areas wild, clean, and pristine.
There are 8 Wildernesses within White River National Forest. These areas include:
- Collegiate Peaks Wilderness
- Eagles Nest Wilderness
- Flat Tops Wilderness
- Holy Cross Wilderness
- Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness
- Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
- Ptarmigan Peak Wilderness
- Raggeds Wilderness
Wilderness videos
At a Glance
Permit Info: | Some areas may require a Wilderness permit. |
---|---|
Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
Restrictions: | Wilderness restrictions apply |
Water: | Treat all non-potable water before consuming. |
Operated By: | Forest Service |
Information Center: | White River National Forest district offices |
General Information
General Notes:Buy maps online
National Forest Store: Offers a full, nationwide selection of National Forest, Ranger District, Wilderness, and Specialty Maps for purchase online or by phone, fax, and mail.
Wilderness.net
Go to Wilderness.net for additional maps and information about Wilderness.
Activities
Day Hiking
Areas for Day Hiking at Wilderness Areas
- Collegiate Peaks Wilderness - White River
- Eagles Nest Wilderness
- Flat Tops Wilderness- White River
- Holy Cross Wilderness - White River
- Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness - White River
- Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
- Ptarmigan Peak Wilderness
Backpacking
Areas for Backpacking at Wilderness Areas