San
Juan National Forest Information or call (970) 247-4874.
For Forest Service Maps, Guidebooks and more information visit the San
Juan Mountains Association's online bookstore and click on Bookstore. For visitor
information services about recreating on public lands call: (970) 247-4874.
Proceeds from SJMA's bookstore sales benefit stewardship and environmental
education projects on public land. Remember to practice Leave No Trace ethics
when visiting the San Juan Mountains.
The incredible San Juan National Forest is located in southwestern Colorado
on the western slope of the Continental Divide. It covers an area from east
to west of more than 120 miles and from north to south more than 60 miles,
encompassing an area of 1,869,931 acres.
Alpine lakes, canyons, cataracts, waterfalls, unusual geologic formations,
historic mines and broad variations in elevation characterize this area. Archeological
ruins of the ancient Pueblo People are preserved at Chimney Rock.
The Needle Mountains, a paradise for mountain climbers and one of the roughest
ranges in the United States, lie within the Weminuche Wilderness. three of
these peaks are over 14,000 feet above sea level. Within Lizard Head Wilderness
are three more peaks greater than 14,000 feet in elevation. These trails are
accessible to foot and horse traffic only.
Campgrounds and picnic sites are scattered throughout the forest. Fishing
for trout in high mountain lakes, swift streams or reservoirs such as McPhee,
Vallecito, Lemon and Williams Creek Lake offer the angler many challenges.
The area has short, cool summers and long, severe winters in the mountains.
The lower elevations experience a more temperate winter. There are several
permanent snow fields, and snow patches remain in sheltered areas throughout
the summer. You should be prepared for freezing weather at all times of the
year.
To plan your adventure into the Weminuche Wilderness area visit www.sjma.org and
click on Chicago Basin Trip Planning Guide.
