Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests
Experience Your Nature!
Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests is home to over 3 million acres–from plateaus to peaks. The opportunities are endless!
Scenery and an abundance of opportunities for access draw you in and trails lead the way to the rugged canyons, vast mountains, wildlife and history of the GMUG. Over 3,000 miles of trails and routes provide access to areas of rugged beauty and solitude. The topography allows the forest to provide trails—beginner to extreme—all year. The mountains, plateau and mesa that make up the forest will always provide a scenic backdrop and a unique experience.
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Recreation
The GMUG offers over 3,000 miles of trails, four scenic byways, six peaks over 14,000 feet in elevation, 10 wildernesses, over 3,600 miles of perennial streams and elevation ranges from 5,800 to 14,309 feet.
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Find Your Way
From mobile friendly apps to motor vehicle use maps, help find your way with forest maps and publications for your next journey on the GMUG.
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Plan Ahead
Passes and permits are needed for activities such as collecting firewood, cutting Christmas trees, commercial filming and other special events.
Recent News
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Farris Creek Road Travel Management
Release Date: Dec 5, 2023
Features
Christmas Tree Permits

The USDA Forest Service welcomes visitors to select and cut a Christmas tree on the GMUG National Forests with the purchase of a permit.
Your Input Matters!

The National Visitor Use Monitoring (NVUM) survey is happening on the GMUG National Forests until September 2024. If you see us conducting surveys during your visit, please stop and take the survey! It’s a great opportunity to let us know how your recreational expectations are being fulfilled on Forest Service lands.
During the NVUM, the public may encounter contract employees working in developed and dispersed recreation sites and along Forest Service roads. They will be out in all types of weather conditions, wearing bright orange vests, and will have signs that say, “Traffic Survey Ahead.”
All survey responses are voluntary and confidential.