Weminuche CONTIGUOUS WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

The Weminuche Contiguous WSA is adjacent to the Weminuche Wilderness (managed by the USFS). It is incredibly scenic, with breathtaking high peaks - several over 13,000 feet - alpine and subalpine meadows and ridges, and alpine basins. The alpine tundra allows unconfined movement for cross-country travel. This, in combination with existing hiking trails and the high scenic quality of the area, provides wonderful opportunities for primitive recreation. The topographic relief offers outstanding solitude. Within the area are numerous running streams with cascading waterfalls. These form drainage patterns that radiate from Whitehead Peak and Sugarloaf. Vegetation consists mainly of spruce forest, alpine tundra grasses, Altain Starwort (proposed Endangered and Threatened Plant), and various wildflowers. Fauna includes lynx and bighorn sheep. Activities include hiking, backpacking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and photography.

Visitation Information

The Weminuche Contiguous WSA is located in San Juan County, approximately five miles southeast of Silverton and four miles south of Howardsville. The Deer Park Trail provides access.

Visitor Advisory

Total Area: 1,419 acres

Elevation Range: ~10,800 to ~13,434 feet

BLM Field Office: Gunnison

Designated: 1980 (Wilderness Study Area)