Spanning nearly a million acres across western Colorado, Uncompahgre National Forest encompasses two dramatically different landscapes: the arid Uncompahgre Plateau and the rugged northern San Juan Mountains. Established in 1905, this forest stretches across eight counties and offers some of Colorado’s most spectacular high-country scenery.
The forest contains three designated wilderness areas, including the Uncompahgre Wilderness, where 14,309-foot Uncompahgre Peak—the sixth-highest summit in Colorado—draws peak baggers throughout summer. The varied terrain ranges from pinyon-juniper woodlands on the plateau to alpine tundra above treeline, creating distinct ecosystems within a single forest boundary.
ATV enthusiasts and jeep travelers find exceptional trail systems here, with routes winding through aspen groves, past abandoned mining claims, and along ridgelines offering panoramic views of the San Juans. The area’s sparse population and abundant sunshine make it ideal for off-road exploration without the crowds found in more accessible forests.
Best Time to Visit: June through September for high-elevation activities; the plateau remains accessible into late fall. Winter brings deep snow to mountain areas but opens opportunities for snowmobiling and backcountry skiing.
Getting There: Montrose serves as the primary gateway city, with Delta hosting forest headquarters. Highway 550 (the Million Dollar Highway) cuts through the eastern portion, providing access to trailheads and dispersed camping areas.
Campgrounds: Multiple developed and dispersed camping options exist throughout the forest, though facilities vary by location and season.
Explore Nearby
- Lower Spring Creek Trail — Public Land in Colorado
- Burn Canyon Trail System — Public Land in Colorado
- Ridgway State Park — State Park in Colorado
- Sweitzer Lake State Park — State Park in Colorado
- Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Colorado
