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Indian Peaks Wilderness

The 76,711 acre Indian Peaks Wilderness Area became part of the Wilderness Preservation System in 1978. With James Peak Wilderness on the south and Rocky Mountain National Park to the north, elevations range from 8,300 to 13,500 feet. Wilderness is wild. Your safety is your responsibility. Review outdoor safety tips.

Groups of more than 12 are prohibited. Day and overnight permits are required year round for outfitter/guides and large organized groups.

OVERNIGHT USE:

  • Permits are issued by night by backcountry zone and are limited and cost $5 per trip. Apply early.
  • Camping is prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone from 5/1-11/30 (Backcountry Zone Map).
  • June 1 – September 15: Permits are required for all overnight trips. Overnight permits are limited. Applications are accepted within the same calendar year as the overnight trip.
  • September 16 – May 31: Permits are NOT required for groups of seven people or less unless the trip is organized by an official outfitter/guide. However, all other regulations remain in effect. Scroll down to “restrictions” within the “at a glance” table for more information.
  • Colorado is black bear country: properly hang food or use a bear canister. Review bear safety tips before your trip.

PERMITS:

  1. Review the regulations (scroll down to the “restrictions” within the “at a glance” table).
  2. Plan your route with a topographical map. Cross high elevation areas in the early morning hours to avoid severe thunderstorms.
  3. Decide which backcountry zone you are camping within on each day of your trip by viewing the Backcountry Zone Map (pdf, 716Kb). Each zone has a limited number of permits available.
  4. Download and complete the Wilderness Permit Application Form (pdf, 155Kb). 
  5. Mail with a $5 check or bring the completed application form to the office in advance (for summer months, do not apply before January 2).
  6. If your request is sold out, you will be have the option to change your zones and/or dates.

Check summer trail conditions (or winter trail conditions) before your visit. Snow from the winter and spring season can linger through early July depending upon elevation, aspect and tree cover. Areas along the Continental Divide including Buchanan, Devils Thumb, and Caribou Passes can be technical winter routes and very dangerous to all but experienced winter mountaineers if attempted before mid-July. Your safety is your responsibility.

 

 

Directions

Trails in the Indian Peaks Wilderness:

GPS Coordinates

Latitude 39° 57′ 0.1836″ N

Longitude 105° 40′ 13.4184″ W