Fossil Ridge Wilderness - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Henry Mountain is a fairly remote summit located in the Fossil Ridge Wilderness Area. The 13,261-foot thirteener is located in the Fossil Ridge Wilderness of Gunnison National Forest. A good trekking destination and also there are so many things to see and do. It also offers nice views of this area.

The Gunnison National Forest is a protected area situated in the western part of the US state of Colorado. It consists of a variety of wilderness terrain, covering vast distances in secluded places like the West Elk Mountains, Raggeds Wilderness, Fossil Ridge, and the La Garita Wilderness. A good trekking destination and also it offers nice views of wildlife and forest.

The Gunsight Pass Trail is not only a popular day hike, but is also a very popular 2 to 3 night backpacking opportunity. With backcountry campsites located at Gunsight Lake, Lake Ellen Wilson, and near the Sperry Chalet, you can take your time and really enjoy this beautiful area.

Lamphier Lake is a glacial tarn that was scooped out of the surrounding rock during the last ice age. Its trailhead serves as access for Henry Mountain located in the Fossil Ridge Wilderness. The same trail also leads to Gunsight Pass. The lake is 2.77 miles from the parking area. Fossil ridge is behind the lake.

Fairview Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 3.781m above the sea level, located in Gunnison County. The immediate area around Fairview Peak was scorched in a wildfire a few years ago and so there is a ghost forest surrounding the immediate area of the peak. There is not an established trail leading to the summit, however at the top of the peak there is a Forest Service Marker as well as a log book.

Cumberland Pass is a high mountain pass in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The pass is traversed by Forest Road 765 and can be accessed from the towns of Tincup to the north and Pitkin to the south. The Cumberland Pass road was built in 1882, connecting the mining towns of Tin Cup to the north and Pitkin to the south. Evidence of past and present human activities can be found at Cumberland Pass.