Sangre de Cristo Wilderness - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

With miles of hiking trails to explore, ranging from easy to difficult, there's something for everyone. For those who love to fish, the wilderness is home to several high-altitude lakes, where you can cast your line in hopes of reeling in a rainbow trout. And if you're lucky enough to visit in the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the many trails that wind through the area. No matter what time of year you visit, Sangre de Cristo Wilderness is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

The Sangre de Cristo Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area located in Saguache County, Colorado. The Wilderness Act of 1964 created the wilderness area, which covers approximately 37,000 acres of land. The Sangre de Cristo Wilderness is home to a variety of plant and animal life, as well as a number of historical and cultural sites. The area was first inhabited by Native Americans, who used the land for hunting and gathering food. Later, European settlers arrived in the area and began ranching and farming. Today, the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness is a popular recreation destination, with activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

The best time to visit the wilderness is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry and the trails are clear of snow. However, hikers should be aware that the wilderness can be crowded during this time of year. For a quieter experience, it is best to visit during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. 

1. There are no marked trails in the wilderness, so come prepared with a good map and compass (or GPS).
2. You'll need a permit to camp overnight in the wilderness area - be sure to apply in advance.
3. The altitude can be challenging - if you're not used to it, take your time and rest often. Drink plenty of water too.
4. Remember that you are in bear country - take precautions with your food and trash, and make noise when hiking to avoid surprising a bear.
5. Start early. The Sangre de Cristo Wilderness is known for its large wildlife population, including bears and mountain lions. To avoid encountering any dangerous animals, it's best to start your hike early in the day.
6. Pack plenty of food and water. This is essential for any hike, but especially in a remote area like the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness where there are no convenience stores or restaurants. It's always better to err on the side of caution and pack more than you think you'll need.

1. The highest point in the Wilderness is Kit Carson Peak, at an elevation of 14,165 feet. It was designated a Wilderness Area in 1993 and covers a total of 83,577 acres.
2. There are over 200 miles of trails winds through the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, providing opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. 
3. The Sangre de Cristo Wilderness is known for its spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, particularly when viewed from the summit of Blanca Peak. 
4. The range was so named by early Spanish explorers due to the reddish color of the rocks and soil. 
5. Snowfall can generally be expected from October through May. Temperatures range from below freezing at night to highs in the 80s during the day during the summer months.

While there is no definitive answer to this question, as it will depend on a variety of factors such as the size of the party and their hiking experience, a good rule of thumb is to allow for at least three days. This will give you enough time to explore the area without feeling rushed and will also allow for some flexibility in case of bad weather or other unforeseen delays. 

There are a few different ways to get to the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness in Saguache County, Colorado. The most direct route is to take Highway 285 from either the north or the south. The highway winds its way through the heart of the wilderness, and there are plenty of places to pull over and enjoy the view. If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can take one of the many mountain roads that lead into the wilderness. These roads are often unpaved and can be difficult to navigate, but they offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Sangre de Cristo Wilderness in Saguache County, Colorado. However, there are some camping and parking fees associated with using certain areas within the wilderness.

Visitors should be aware that the wilderness is only open during certain hours. During the summer, the wilderness is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. However, during the winter, the hours are reduced to 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.