West Elk Wilderness
Designated as a wilderness area in Colorado in 1964, the West Elk Wilderness encompassed more than 56,000 acres on the Gunnison National Forest. The area was expanded to it current size of 176,000 acres in 1980. The area is just west of Gunnison and close to Crested Butte. There are no mountains over 14,000 feet in height in this wilderness area and few alpine lakes. As a result, this particular Wilderness Area attracts few recreational users.
Although few users venture into the West Elk Wilderness of Colorado, those that do find numerous opportunities for adventure. The area is rich with volcanic ridges and long valleys. Beautiful aspen forests cover the steep-sided valleys, and if you are lucky enough to hike through the region in the fall, you will be treated to the brilliant oranges, reds and yellows of the season. The sky is clear and deep blue and the temperatures can be brisk this time of year. You will be able to hear bull elk bugling in the distance.
During the hunting season, hunters flock to the area in search of elk and deer. These animals have created an extensive network of trails, which travel along the ridgelines and across the valley floors. You can follow any of these trails, which generally form a loop, and find yourself on a multi-day adventure. These same trails provide excellent paths for horses as well as people.
Weather can vary greatly but in general, expect a cool mountain climate with scattered rain showers throughout the summer months. The West Elk Wilderness is snow free from mid-July to September, but conditions depend on the elevation and amount of snowfall each winter. Wildlife, which you may encounter, includes elk, mule deer, black bear, bobcat, mountain lion, coyote, snowshoe hares, Golden Eagles, and other small species. The streams are filled with native cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, brook trout and brown trout.
Gunnison, CO Weather
Currently Outside60F Sunny. Refreshingly cool. |
