Eagles Nest Wilderness

The United States Congress designated the Eagles Nest Wilderness in 1976 and it now has a total of 133,496 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Colorado and is managed by the White River National Forest.

The rugged mountains of the Gore Range are at the heart of the Eagles Nest Wilderness and serve as a major contribution to the waters of the Colorado River. Melting snow in the spring plunges from the heights to create thundering creeks, verdant meadows and spectacular wildflowers.  This is an area that is more vertical than horizontal, with jagged peaks, sharp-edged ridges, deep valleys, sparkling alpine lakes, and dense forests.

The area is known for its excellent hiking and backpacking on approximately 180 miles of trails that can be accessed from the towns of Silverthorne, Frisco and Vail, Colorado.

Many of the high alpine lakes are being heavily impacted by increased visitor use. Protect this special place by using Leave No Trace techniques: 

Camping - Choose previously impacted sites, at least 100 feet from trails, lakes and streams.

Fires - Camp stoves are recommended. Fires are prohibited within l00 feet of any stream or Forest Service Trail, within ¼ mile of any lake, or at any point above treeline. Please refrain from having campfires in areas without dead and down firewood.

Human Waste and Trash - Pack out all trash and human waste

Dogs - Pets must be leashed to protect wildlife and the experience of other visitors.

At a Glance