RIO GRANDE NATIONAL FOREST

Amenities Weather Recreation


PARKS COLORADO

Rio Grande National Forest


April 30, 2024

The Rio Grande National Forest is located in southwestern Colorado and covers over 1.8 million acres of land. Visitors to the forest can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, and more.

Some of the top points of interest in the Rio Grande National Forest include the Continental Divide Trail, Wheeler Geologic Area, and the South Fork Rio Grande River. The forest is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, such as elk, black bears, and bighorn sheep, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

Interesting facts about the Rio Grande National Forest include that it contains the headwaters of the Rio Grande River, which flows over 1,900 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, the forest is home to the oldest tree in Colorado, a bristlecone pine estimated to be over 2,000 years old.

The best time of year to visit the Rio Grande National Forest varies depending on the activity. Summer months are ideal for hiking and camping, while fall offers stunning foliage and hunting opportunities. Winter brings snowmobiling and skiing, and spring is perfect for wildlife watching and fishing.




Weather Outlook



16 Day Long Term Forecast

Seasonal Comparison


Historical Data


Rafting & Kayaking

MAROON BELLS/SNOWMASS WILDERNESS BOUNDARY TO CONFLUENCE WITH SOUTH FORK
Roaring Fork Watershed, Colorado
SOUTH FORK--HEADWATERS TO BEAVER LAKE
Roaring Fork Watershed, Colorado
NORTH FORK--HEADWATERS TO MAROON BELLS/SNOWMASS WILDERNESS BOUNDARY
Roaring Fork Watershed, Colorado
ARKANSAS RIVER SEGMENT 1
Arkansas Headwaters Watershed, Colorado
NORTH FORK--INSMONT TO ESTABROOK
Upper South Platte Watershed, Colorado
BEAVER LAKE TO SWEET JESSUP HEADGATE
Roaring Fork Watershed, Colorado
ARKANSAS RIVER SEGMENT 2
Arkansas Headwaters Watershed, Colorado
EAST FORK ARKANSAS RIVER
Arkansas Headwaters Watershed, Colorado
HEADWATERS TO HOLY CROSS WILDERNESS BOUNDARY
Eagle Watershed, Colorado
DEEP CREEK
North Fork Gunnison Watershed, Colorado

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