Eagles Nest Wilderness - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Eagles Nest Wilderness is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing. In addition, there are numerous scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Summit County is also home to several ski resorts, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. No matter what time of year you visit, Eagles Nest Wilderness is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

The Eagles Nest Wilderness is a haven for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Summit County, Colorado, the Eagles Nest Wilderness spans nearly 30,000 acres of alpine meadows, forests, and peaks. The area was first protected as part of the White River National Forest in 1976, and it was officially designated as a wilderness area in 1980. Today, the Eagles Nest Wilderness is home to an abundance of wildlife, including elk, deer, bear, and eagles. The trail network winds through lush valleys and towering mountain passes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Eagles Nest Wilderness is the perfect place to find peace and solitude.

The best time to visit the Eagles Nest Wilderness in Summit County, Colorado is during the summer months. The temperatures are mild and the days are long, providing ample opportunity to enjoy all that the wilderness has to offer. Wildlife is plentiful during this time of year, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. 

1. Get an early start. The Eagles Nest Wilderness is a popular destination, so getting an early start will help you avoid the crowds.
2. Pack appropriate clothing. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so make sure you pack clothes that will keep you warm and dry.
3. Be aware of wildlife. The wilderness is home to a variety of animals, including bears, mountain lions, and snakes. Be cautious when hiking and make noise to avoid startling wildlife.
4. Respect private property. The Eagles Nest Wilderness includes both public and private land, so be sure to respect private property boundaries.
5. Be prepared for emergencies . Unfortunately , accidents happen . Be sure to bring a first-aid kit and know how to use it.
6. Camp at least 100 feet from lakes and streams. This will help protect the water sources from contamination.campfires are only allowed in designated areas. Please check for fire bans before your trip, as they are often implemented during dry conditions.
7. limit your group size to 12 people or less. Large groups can have a significant impact on the wilderness area. Please be considerate of other visitors and limit noise as well. gunfire is not permitted in the wilderness area . please be respectful of other visitors and refrain from using firearms. 

1. Eagles Nest Wilderness covers an area of 35,000 acres.The area was designated as a wilderness area in 1976.
2. The area is also home to several different species of birds, including eagles and hawks.
3. Eagles Nest Wilderness is one of the most popular recreation areas in Summit County – each year, over 200,000 people visit the area.
4. n addition to hiking and camping, popular activities in the area include fishing, hunting, and horseback riding.
5. In the winter, the wilderness offers great opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
6. There are dozens of hiking trails in the wilderness, ranging from short nature walks to multi-day backpacking trips. The trail to Two Elk Lake is one of the most popular trails in the wilderness and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

There's no definitive answer to this question, as it will vary depending on your fitness level, the trails you take, and the weather conditions. However, a good rule of thumb is to allow yourself at least 3-4 days to explore Eagles Nest Wilderness. This will give you plenty of time to hike to the summits of some of the area's most popular peaks. 

To reach the wilderness area, take Highway 9 south from Silverthorne for about four miles. Then, turn left onto Heeney Road and follow it for six miles until it dead-ends at the Eagle's Nest trailhead. From there, you can begin exploring the abundance of trails and natural wonders that Eagles Nest Wilderness has to offer. 

While there is no entrance fee to explore Eagles Nest Wilderness, there are some Fees charged for camping and backpacking overnight. These fees help to maintain the wilderness area and keep it accessible for everyone to enjoy. 

However, it is important to note that the wilderness is only open during certain hours. During the summer months, the wilderness is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, during the winter months, the hours are reduced to 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors should also be aware that the wilderness is closed to vehicles on Sundays.