Spanish Peaks Wilderness

Spanish Peaks Wilderness


	Courtesy of EatStayPlay.com

Las Cumbres Espanolas, the Spanish Peaks, are among the most important landmarks of the Southwest. Long before Pike attempted to reach the top of the peak, later named for him, the Spanish Peaks were guiding Indians, Spanish and French to the settlements of New Mexico.

Their isolated location and their abrupt rise 7,000 feet above the Great Plains made the twin mountains of special significance to the Ute, Apache, Comanche and earlier tribes who lived nearby. The great mountains were objects of religious awe to the primitive tribes. Summer thunderstorms which cluster about the summits were thought to be evidence that the Rain God lived on the Spanish Peaks.

Today there is a good variety of wildlife in the area including bear, deer, elk, turkey and grouse. Trout are found in the Purgatoire and Cucharas Rivers and in the following lakes: Bear, Blue, North, Monument, Martin, Horseshoe and La Veta. Usual combinations of conifers are a feature of the Spanish Peaks. Bristlecone, limber and ponderosa pines, alpine and white firs, Douglas-fir and Engelmann spruce can be found in the same area. An outstanding show of fall colors is exhibited by the aspen and oak brush. Wildflower displays are especially colorful.

There are a variety of campgrounds and trails within the area. Points of interest and the Cordova Pass Scenic Drive are recreation opportunities. Please note that private lands both inside and outside the National Forest may be posted against public use.

Facilities: There are a variety of campgrounds within Spanish Peaks Wilderness.

Reservations: Reservations are not required at Spanish Peaks Wilderness.

Best Time To Visit: The Spanish Peaks Wilderness offers its visitors a wide variety of recreational opportunities year-round.

Fees: No fees are charged for the use of Spanish Peaks Wilderness.

Accessibility: This area is not handicap accessible.

Rules: The 1964 Wilderness Act Prohibits: Motorized equipment or mechanized transportation is prohibited, including motorcycles, chain saws, bicycles or carts.Aircraft, including helicopters, from landing or dropping and picking up any materials, supplies or persons. (Exceptions include uses which may be necessary and appropriate in emergencies or for the proper administration of the area, and for access with mechanical wheelchairs for people with disabilities.)

Directions: To get to Spanish Peaks Wilderness from either north from Walsenburg, or south from Trinidad, travel on CO State Highway 12 to well marked signs. The Spanish Peaks Wilderness is located off of State Highway 12.

Attractions Near
Spanish Peaks Wilderness

The Pike and San Isabel National Forests and The Comanche National Grassland

Address

San Carlos Ranger District

3170 East Main Street

Canon City, Colorado 81212

Phone
General: (719) 269-8500

Website

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