Summary
It covers an area of about 66,791 acres and is known for its spectacular mountain views, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams.
There are many good reasons to visit this wilderness area, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife including elk, moose, black bears, and mountain lions.
Some of the specific points of interest to see in Comanche Peak Wilderness include the Cache La Poudre River, the Diamond Peaks, and the Mirror Lake. The Cache La Poudre River is a popular spot for fishing and rafting, while the Diamond Peaks offer incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Mirror Lake is a serene body of water surrounded by towering mountain peaks.
Interesting facts about the area include that it is home to the federally threatened Canada lynx and the Colorado butterfly plant, which is listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. Additionally, the area is named after the Comanche tribe, who once inhabited the region.
The best time of year to visit Comanche Peak Wilderness is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is typically mild, and the trails are open and accessible. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and should check weather forecasts before embarking on any outdoor activities.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rabbit Ears Campsite
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Peregrine Campsite
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Sylvanmere 2
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Sylvanmere 1
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Boundary Creek campsite 1
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Boundary Creek campsite 2
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Big Thompson River
Big Thompson River Fishing Site
Lawn Lake - RMNP
Crystal Lake - RMNP
Fay Lake