Wilderness Areas
Weminuche Wilderness
At three quarters the size of Rhode Island, the Weminuche Wilderness is the largest Wilderness area in Colorado at 499,771 acres. It is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System, established by the Wilderness Act of 1964 to "secure for the American people of present and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of wilderness." The Weminuche was designated by Congress in 1975, and expanded by the Colorado Wilderness Acts of 1980 and 1993.
 The Weminuche spans the Continental Divide, North America's geological backbone, with its headwaters diverted to both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Eolus, Sunlight, and Windom peaks rise above 14,000 feet, while many others reach above 13,000 feet. With an average elevation of 10,000 feet above sea level, the Weminuche is rugged country, but its ecosystems are fragile.
As you visit, you will join thousands of others who travel in the Weminuche each year. You can help protect the Wilderness through your knowledge and skills, and by complying with regulations. Many people are not aware of the impacts they cause -- please practice low-impact camping and use common sense.
Related Links:
Chicago Basin / Weminuche Trip Planning Guide
Trip Planning Information Weminuche Wilderness
Weminuche Wilderness Guide Map
Durango & Silverton Railroad Wilderness access
South San Juan Wilderness
The South San Juan Wilderness encompasses the eastern extent of the San Juan Mountain Range, including a segment of the Continental Divide. Originally designated as Wilderness by Congress in 1980, it is a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System. The information within this handout will assist you as you prepare for your trip.
Trip Planning Information South San Juan Wilderness
Lizard Head Wilderness
The Lizard Head Wilderness contains 41,309 acres jointly managed by the Uncompahgre and San Juan National Forests as Congressionally designated wilderness. The San Juan manages 20,918 acres of the Lizard Head Wilderness. The area is named for a prominent rock formation said to look like a lizard's head. Lizard Head itself is 13,113 feet (3,997 m) and is a volcanic spire of crumbling rock. Backcountry wilderness trails in this infrequently visited wilderness are mostly above 9,000 feet in elevation and are strenuous and should be only be attempted by more advanced backpackers with adequate experience and equipment.
The area includes three prominent fourteeners:
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El Diente Peak (14,159 ft / 4316 m)
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Wilson Peak (14,017 ft / 4272 m)
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Mount Wilson (14,246 ft / 4342 m)
The wilderness area also includes the headwaters of the west fork of the Dolores River. For more information, contact the Dolores Public Lands Office at 970 882-7296.
Piedra Special Management Area
The Piedra Area contains 61,850 acres designated in 1993 by the San Juan National Forest as a Special Management Area very similar to a Wilderness area. The Area is named for the Piedra River which dominates the mountainous landscape.
Specific Piedra Area Regulations
Group Size - Maximum group size is 15 people per group, with a maximum combination of people and stock not to exceed 25.
- Maximum group size for river running activities on the Piedra River is 20 people.
Camping is not permitted within 100 feet of streams or lakes, except as designated or posted.
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