Gunnison National Forest, Colorado

Gunnison National Forest consists of more than 1.7 million acres of public land and more than 100,000 acres of private land within its boundaries. In addition, within the boundaries of the Forest are two mountain peaks over 14,000 feet in height and another twenty that tower over 13,000 feet in elevation.

The Gunnison National Forest is located near the Gunnison-Created Butte area of Colorado. Filled with lush green forests, high mountain peaks, and wide mountain valleys, the Gunnison National Forest is a vast playground for those who enjoy all types of outdoor recreational activities.

The Forest has numerous campgrounds that accommodate campers, tents and small trailers – those not exceeding eighteen feet in length. Each campground specifies the length of stay allowed and some charge user fees.

There is a rugged road, which passes through majestic and brilliantly colored high mountain scenery. This is the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway and it provides access to several ghost towns, just waiting for you to explore. You can also gain access to the summits of several 14,000 high mountain peaks via this Scenic Byway including Redcloud, Handies, Sunshine, Wetterhorn, and Uncompaghre Peaks.

It is possible that you may come across previously undiscovered Anasazi ruins while in the Forest. If so, please do not disturb them and report your discovery to Forest Personnel.

Additional things to see and do in the Gunnison National Forest include the Alpine Tunnel, various primitive and wilderness areas, Pioneer Point, Kebler Pass Road, Slumgullion Earth Flow, Castle Peak and the Taylor Park Reservoir.

There are also 130 miles of the Continental Divide Scenic Trail in the Gunnison National Forest, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and awe-inspiring mountain views.