Flat Tops Area
The Flat Tops Wilderness Area is a mountain range in northwestern Colorado. The area was first inhabited by the Ute Indians, who used the land for hunting and fishing. In the early 1900s, the area was used for logging and mining, but in 1975 it was designated as a wilderness area to preserve its natural beauty. The Flat Tops are known for their unique flat-topped peaks, which were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Notable peaks in the area include Flat Top Mountain, which is the highest peak in the range at 12,361 feet, and Trappers Peak, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The range is also home to several significant hydrological features, including the headwaters of the White River, which flows into the Colorado River. The area is also home to several lakes and streams, including Trappers Lake, which is known for its excellent fishing. Interesting facts about the Flat Tops include that it is home to the largest herd of elk in North America and that it was used as a filming location for the movie "Outbreak." Additionally, the Flat Tops were used as inspiration for the fictional mountain range in the popular book series "Warriors."
| Peak | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Sleepy Cat Peak | 10848 |
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Mountain Activities
1. Hiking: The Flat Tops Wilderness Area offers numerous hiking trails that range from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day backpacking adventures. Some popular hikes include the Devil's Causeway Trail, the Chinese Wall Trail, and the Trappers Lake Trail.
2. Fishing: The Flat Tops area is home to numerous lakes and streams that are teeming with trout and other fish species. Anglers can enjoy fly fishing, bait fishing, and spin casting in these pristine waters.
3. Camping: Camping is a popular outdoor recreational activity in the Flat Tops area, with several designated campgrounds and backcountry camping opportunities available. Campers can enjoy sleeping under the stars, cooking over a campfire, and immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
4. Horseback riding: The Flat Tops area is a popular destination for horseback riding enthusiasts, with several equestrian-friendly trails and campgrounds available. Riders can explore the rugged terrain and scenic vistas of the mountain range on horseback.
5. Hunting: The Flat Tops area is a prime destination for hunters, with abundant populations of elk, deer, bear, and other game species. Hunters can enjoy pursuing their quarry in the rugged backcountry of the mountain range.
6. Wildlife watching: The Flat Tops area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bears, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy observing and photographing these animals in their natural habitat.
7. Mountain biking: The Flat Tops area offers several mountain biking trails that cater to riders of all skill levels. From gentle, rolling paths to challenging singletrack descents, mountain bikers can enjoy exploring the rugged terrain of the mountain range on two wheels.