Vasquez Peak Wilderness Trails

Vasquez Peak Wilderness Trails

Vasquez Peak is part of a 100,000-acre roadless complex that includes Byers Peak Wilderness, Fraser Experimental Forest, and Williams Fork–Ptarmigan Peak roadless area. Vasquez Peak’s most distinguishing feature is its 7-mile stretch of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Almost two-thirds of the wilderness is above timberline. The proximity of Vasquez Peak to the Indian Peaks and Eagles Nest wilderness areas in the Gore Range offers splendid views of both mountain ranges, but with far fewer people than in either of those two areas. The wilderness consists of that portion of the Vasquez Mountains west of Berthoud Pass and south of Winter Park Ski Area. Dropping in elevation, the tundra gives way to first krummholz and then forests of Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, and finally lodgepole pine. Krummholz, a German word meaning “twisted wood,” aptly describes the forest survivors at timberline. Because of the severe environment and bone-chillingwinds above treeline, Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir are unable to grow upright. Instead, they grow as clumps of prostrate, shrubby trees spreading downwind in gnarled and twisted shapes, with their upwind branches killed off by the desiccating winds. It should be obvious to never use such scrappy survivors for firewood. This trail guide includes descriptions of Vasquez Pass, Vasquez Lake via Continental Divide Trail, and Berthoud Pass to Jones Pass or Fool Creek.

See all Hiking in Colorado