Byers Peak Wilderness


Established in 1993, Byers Peak Wilderness was named after William N. Byers, founder of Colorado’s first newspaper the Rocky Mountain News. Byers Peak Wilderness encompasses 8,801 acres in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests in Grand County containing a variety of eco-zones from low-lying lodgepole pine forest and riparian drainages to alpine tundra fields of over 12,000 feet in elevation. 

Due to its diverse range of ecological habitat, the area contains a wide variety of flora and fauna. This area is home to many species including deer, elk, bear, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, and several species of trout and small rodents.

This Wilderness also contains two glacial lakes, three major creek drainages and two peaks over 12,500 feet. The highest is Byers Peak with an elevation of 12,804 feet accessible via the Byers Peak Trail.

Always use Leave No Trace techniques to help keep this area wild, clean, and pristine. 

At a Glance

Usage: Light
Restrictions: Wilderness regulations apply
  • Motorized equipment, or mechanized transportation is prohibited, including motorcycles, chain saws, bicycles or carts. Wheelchairs are exempt.
  • Group size is limited to 12 people and/or livestock combined.
  • Camping and campfires are prohibited within 100’ feet (or more if posted) of all lakes, streams and trails to protect water quality, sensitive vegetation and to help assure solitude. Thin soils and mountain vegetation are easily damaged by fire and fires scar rocks and soil. Use of a stove, a fire pan or an existing fire ring is encouraged where fires are allowed.
  • Pets must be under control at all times.
  • Stock must not be hobbled, tethered or picketed within 100’ (or more if posted) feet of any lakes, streams or trails. This protects fragile vegetation and keeps lakes and streams clean.
  • Certified weed-free forage is required on all public land. Only pelletized or steam-rolled feed grains, or certified weed-free hay, straw, or mulch are allowed.
  • Do not store equipment, personal property or supplies within the wilderness for more than 14 days within a 30-day period, including time the area was used for camping.
Closest Towns: Fraser, Colorado; Empire, Colorado
Water: Treat all non-potable water before consuming.
Operated By: Forest Service

General Information

Directions:

Trailheads/trails accessing Byers peak Wilderness:

Topo maps

Forest Service Topography Maps: These maps overlay Forest Service assets, such as roads, trails, and campgrounds, on USGS's topographic maps. They are available for download by quadrangle.

Buy maps online

National Forest Store: Offers a full, nationwide selection of National Forest, Ranger District, Wilderness, and Specialty Maps for purchase online or by phone, fax, and mail.

Colorado’s Fourteeners

Find more information about climbing Colorado’s peaks at the Rocky Mountain Region 14ers page.

Wilderness.net

Go to Wilderness.net for additional maps and information about Wilderness.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

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Backpacking

Horse Riding

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Location

 
  Latitude : 
39.802623

  Longitude : 
-106.051493

  Elevation : 
12804'