San Juan National Forest - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There's plenty to do at the San Juan National Forest, no matter what time of year it is. In the summer, hikers can explore over 800 miles of trails, including sections of the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. There are also plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and picnicking. The forest is also home to several scenic drives, including the Coal Bank Pass and Molas Pass. In the winter, the Forest becomes a snow lover's paradise, with over 300 miles of Nordic ski trails and numerous snowshoeing and dog-sledding trails. There are also several downhill ski areas within a short drive of the forest. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to enjoy at the San Juan National Forest.

The San Juan National Forest is located in the southwest corner of Colorado. It is the most mountainous forest in the state with thirteen peaks that rise above 14,000 feet, including the iconic 14,309-foot Mount Sneffels. The forest is also home to six Wilderness Areas, including the Weminuche Wilderness, which is the largest Wilderness Area in Colorado. The San Juan National Forest was established in 1905 and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The Forest covers nearly 1.8 million acres and is wildly popular for recreation, with activities like camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The San Juan National Forest also has a rich history dating back centuries. The Ute people were the first to call this region home and they have a long and storied relationship with the land. In more recent history, the San Juan National Forest was an important source of timber during the early 20th century. Today, the forest remains an important part of life in southwest Colorado and provides countless opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

The best time to visit San Juan National Forest is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and pleasant and the days are long. However, visitors should be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, so advance planning is essential.

1. Although San Juan National Forest is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is between June and September when the weather is mild and the days are long.
2. With over two million acres to explore, it's important to have a plan before you start your adventure. The forest Service website offers a variety of maps and resources to help you plan your trip.
3. There are numerous trailheads throughout the forest, so be sure to check with the visitor center staff for recommendations based on your skill level and interests.
4. The Forest is home to an abundance of wildlife, so remember to pack binoculars and a camera. Depending on the time of year, you might see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, bears, or mountain lions.
5. While there are some developed campgrounds within the forest, backcountry camping is also permitted in many areas. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles if you choose to camp off the beaten path.
6. The high altitude means that visitors need to take precautions against altitude sickness, such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous activity for the first day or two.
7. Stay on Designated Trails: Off-trail travel can damage fragile ecosystems and disturb wildlife. Help protect the natural resources of San Juan National forest by sticking to designated trails.
8. Be Bear Aware: San Juan National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears. Be sure to store food properly and avoid attractants such as garbage, bird feeders, and pet food.
    

1. The San Juan National Forest was established in 1905 and is one of the oldest national forests in the United States.
2. The highest point in the San Juan National Forest is Mount Elbert, which stands at an elevation of 14,440 feet above sea level.
3. The San Juan National Forest is home to several rivers and lakes, including the Rio Grande, the Gunnison River, and Blue Mesa Reservoir – the largest body of water in Colorado.
4. There are seven wilderness areas within the San Juan National Forest boundaries, totaling nearly 700,000 acres.
5. The San Juan National forest contains three ski areas – Purgatory Resort, Silverton Mountain Ski Area, and Wolf Creek Ski Area – which offer a combined total of nearly 2,000 acres of skiable terrain.
6.  The Forest contains some of the largest stands of old-growth forest in the country, including spruce-fir forests that are more than 800 years old.
7. San Juan National Forest is one of the snowiest places in the country, receiving an average of more than 400 inches of snow each year.
    

While there is no definitive answer, a good rule of thumb is to allow at least two weeks. This will give you plenty of time to hike through the diverse landscape, fish in the many streams and lakes, and camp under the stars. Of course, if you're short on time, you can always focus your exploration on specific areas of interest.

San Juan National Forest is located in the southwestern corner of Colorado. To reach the forest, travel west on Highway 550 from Durango. The Forest boundary begins approximately 30 miles west of town. There are also several routes into the San Juans from Montrose, Silverton, and Ouray. 

There is no entrance fee to explore San Juan National Forest. However, there are some recreation fees charged for specific activities, such as camping, picnicking, and using certain developed recreation sites. These fees help to maintain and improve the forest facilities and facilities. For information on recreation fees, please visit the Forest Service website or contact the Forest Service office nearest you. 

The forest is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, some areas may be closed due to weather or fire danger.