Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado

The Uncompahgre National Forest consists of over one million acres of spectacular views including high mountain peaks, narrow valleys, and rolling mesas. From the Uncompahgre Plateau to the San Juan Mountains, this national forest includes the major mountains of Uncompahgre Peak (14,309 ft.), Mt. Sneffels (14,150 ft.), and Wetterhorn Peak (14,017 ft.).

The high mountain peaks that pierce the blue sky in the Uncompahgre National Forest are a remarkable sight. This landscape of high, intense cloud-shredding volcanic peaks and dense sharp ridges cannot be seen anywhere else in the United States. The area seems surreal with high alpine tundra and harrowing and unforgiving mountain passes.

The rugged terrain of the Uncompahgre National Forest has enabled it to maintain its rustic, historic beauty. While other areas in the west were spoiled by the mining boom of the 19th century, this area was so forbidding and remote that exploration was limited. Still as you hike through the lush forests, you are apt to come across some mining ruins. You may find ramshackle mining shafts and old mining trails. You can imagine mules trudging along under their load of heavy equipment as miners dreamed of striking it rich.

For those who are up to it, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking and all types of snow activities area allowed in the Uncompahgre National Forest.