Indian Peaks Wilderness

The United States Congress designated the Indian Peaks Wilderness in 1978 and it now has a total of 77,711 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Colorado and is managed by the Forest Service and the National Park Service. The Indian Peaks Wilderness is bordered by the James Peak Wilderness to the south and the Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness to the north.  The Indian Peaks became part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 1978. Many of the peaks within the area were named for American Indian tribes of the west. The 76,586 acre Wilderness is located primarily within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest. A portion along the northernmost boundary lies within Rocky Mountain National Park. The area stretches approximately 18 miles north/south and 15 miles east/west at it's widest point. Elevations range from 8,400 to just over 13,500 feet. There are a total of seven peaks over 13,000 feet, and approximately 35% of the land area is above treeline. There are 28 maintained trails covering about 133 miles, and over 50 lakes. The icy remains of the last glacial period sculpted out the rugged terrain of the Indian Peaks. Chill winds off perpetual snowfields have created an environment near treeline of stunted trees and alpine plants unusual for this part of the state.