Weminuche Wilderness - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There are plenty of things to do in the Weminuche Wilderness, no matter what your interests are. For those who love to hike, there are miles of trails to explore, including the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. fisherman will find plenty of spots to cast their line, and horseback riders can enjoy scenic views of the wilderness from atop their trusty steeds. There are also plenty of opportunities for camping, picnicking, and wildlife watching. 

canoeing and kayaking are also possible on some of the larger bodies of water. In the winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular, as well as ice fishing. 

The area was first designated as a wilderness area in 1975 and has been managed by the U.S. Forest Service since then. The Wilderness Act of 1964 defines a wilderness area as a "land retaining its primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation." This means that the Weminuche Wilderness is an important part of our country's natural heritage and should be protected for future generations to enjoy. 
A large portion of the Weminuche Wilderness is located within the Mineral County, Colorado. This county is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, including alpine meadows, forests, lakes, and rivers. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and moose. The county's history is rich in mining and ranching, and it was even once home to outlaws like Butch Cassidy and his Hole-in-the-Wall Gang. Today, Mineral County is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the country who come to enjoy the area's hiking trails, mountain biking trails, fishing spots, and campgrounds. 
Whether you're looking for a place to hike, camp, fish, or just enjoy some scenic beauty, the Weminuche Wilderness is sure to please. 

Weminuche Wilderness is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but each season offers its own unique beauty. No matter when you visit, the Weminuche Wilderness is sure to leave a lasting impression. 

1. Know your limits. Weminuche Wilderness is a large and rugged area, so be sure to hike within your abilities. If you’re not an experienced hiker, stick to trails that are shorter and less challenging.
2. Pack plenty of food and water. There are no convenience stores in the wilderness, so you’ll need to bring enough food and water to last you for the duration of your trip.
3. Be prepared for emergencies. Be sure to carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. It’s also a good idea to pack a first-aid kit and some emergency supplies.
4. respect wildlife. Weminuche Wilderness is home to many different species of animals, so be sure to treat them with respect. Never approach or feed wildlife, and give them space if you encounter them on the trail.
5. Allow yourself plenty of time to complete your hike - rushing only increases your chances of getting lost or injured. 
    

1. The Weminuche Wilderness is the largest wilderness area in Colorado, spanning more than 500,000 acres.
2. The wilderness is located in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, and includes parts of four national forests: the Rio Grande, Gunnison, Grand Mesa, and Uncompahgre.
3. The Weminuche Wilderness offers some of the best hiking in Colorado, with more than 850 miles of trails crisscrossing the wilderness.
4. The area receives an average of 20 inches of snow each year, making it a great destination for winter recreation.
5. There are also over 200 species of birds that call the Weminuche Wilderness home.

However, due to its size and remoteness, it can take weeks or even months to explore the entire wilderness. For the average hiker, spending 3-5 days in the wilderness is a more realistic goal. This will allow you to see some of the most scenic areas of the wilderness without having to commit to a lengthy expedition.

The Weminuche Wilderness is a vast and remote area, spanning nearly 500,000 acres in southwestern Colorado. There are no roads or trails that lead directly into the Wilderness, so the best way to access it is by hiking, horseback riding, or canoeing. The most popular starting point is the South San Juan Trailhead, which can be reached by driving south from Silverton on Highway 550. From the trailhead, it's a short hike to an overlook of the Weminuche Valley, and from there you can begin exploring the countless miles of trails that wind through the Wilderness. 

 There is a $5 fee for each permit, and permits are valid for seven days.  All visitors must stop at the ranger station before entering the wilderness to pay the fee and obtain a permit. 

The wilderness is open to the public year-round, but certain areas may be closed due to weather conditions or fire danger.