MCKENNA PEAK WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

The McKenna Peak WSA contains several intriguing features including McKenna Peak, rising 1,000 vertical feet, the Spring Creek Basin and Brumley Point. Highly eroded Mesa Verde sandstone and Mancos shale badlands are exposed by deep canyons, gently rolling mesas, and twisting arroyos which illustrate the geologic processes and natural history of the area. From high points, there are expansive vistas that give a feeling of vastness. Numerous fossil marine invertebrates can be found in the sedimentary strata. Vegetation includes salt desert shrubs, forbs, grasses, pinyon-juniper, ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, oakbrush, mountain mahogany, Uinta Basin hookless cactus, Naturita milkvetch, and spineless hedgehog cactus. Fauna includes mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, mountain lion, black bear, bobcat, coyote, long-tailed weasel, bald and golden eagles. The diversity of topography and vegetation provide for outstanding recreation opportunities including hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, hunting, wildlife viewing, nature and scenic photography, and rock climbing.

Visitation Information

The McKenna Peak WSA is located in San Miguel and Dolores counties, approximately 45 miles northeast of Dove Creek.

Visitor Advisory

Total Area: 20,902 acres

Elevation Range: ~6,300 to ~8,600 feet

BLM Field Office: Tres Rios

Designated: 1980 (Wilderness Study Area)