Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Roosevelt National Forest spans over 800,000 acres in northern Colorado, featuring mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 7,500 to over 14,000 feet. It adjoins Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho National Forest, creating a vast expanse of protected land. The forest is comprised of diverse ecosystems, including dense fir and spruce forests, expansive meadows, and alpine tundra. Established in 1902, it offers rich history tied to timber harvesting and mining. Roosevelt National Forest is well known for its exceptional outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking along its expansive trail networks featuring the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. It hosts several wilderness areas, such as the Indian Peaks and Rawah, offering solitude and pristine landscapes. Key landmarks include the Cache la Poudre River, Colorado's only designated Wild & Scenic River, which provides excellent whitewater rafting. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant fall foliage and wildlife sightings that encompass elk, moose, and black bears.
