RED CLOUD PEAK WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

The Red Cloud Peak WSA is heavily forested in the lower elevations, creating a feeling of total seclusion, and opens to tundra and multi-colored rock strata in higher terrain with broad vistas of exceptional scenic quality due to the high alpine mountainous landform including glacial cirques and alpine lakes and streams. The WSA contains 30 mountain peaks over 13,000 feet in elevation and two peaks over 14,000 feet (Red Cloud Peak (14,034 feet) and Sunshine Peak (14,001 feet)). Vegetation includes spruce, fir, alpine grasses, sedges, forbs, and a small willow species. Fauna includes mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, cutthroat trout, and the Uncompahgre Peak fritillary butterfly. The higher elevations, with its expanses of alpine tundra and open scenic vistas, provides feelings of vastness and solitude. Activities include hiking, backpacking, camping, mountain climbing, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, and photography.

Visitation Information

The Red Cloud Peak WSA is located in Hinsdale County, from one to 10 miles west of Lake City.

Visitor Advisory

Total Area: 38,495 acres

Elevation Range: ~9,310 to ~14,034 feet

BLM Field Office: Gunnison

Designated: 1980 (Wilderness Study Area)