Rainbow Over the San Juans - Ed Knight
Over 95% of Mineral County is in public lands administered by the National Forest Service and the BLM. The Rio Grande National Forest staffs an office in downtown Creede where maps, campground information, and a variety of guides may be obtained.
Highlights: North Clear Creek Falls - Wheeler Geologic Area
Divide Ranger District - Creede Office
304 South Main St. • PO Box 270
Creede, CO 81130
719 658-2556
Hours:
Mid April and May, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday
June through August, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Monday through Sunday. Visitor Center is open Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day
September through November, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday
November to Mid April, Wednesday only 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Rio Grande National Forest Supervisor's Office
1803 W. Hwy 160
Monte Vista, CO 81144
719-852-5941
Wilderness
Mineral County is bounded by two magnificent wilderness areas:
*Framing the town of Creede to the east are the La Garita Mountains which encompass the La Garita Wilderness area.
*The Weminuche Wilderness defines Mineral County’s high country west of Creede with elevations rising from an average of 10,000 feet to peaks reaching above 14,000 feet. Named for a band of Ute people who lived in the area through the 19th century, the Weminuche spans the Rio Grande and San Juan National Forests to form the largest wilderness area in Colorado. Fifty miles of the Continental Divide passes through the Weminuche Wilderness area. Individuals do not need permits to enter Wilderness Areas but should register at trailheads. Outfitters or anyone else leading a group for compensation, even for a non-profit group, must obtain a Forest Service permit.