The Weminuche Wilderness Area contains some of the most rugged and majestic peaks in the continental United States, encompassing nearly 460,000 acres. The average elevation of the Weminuche is over 10,000 feet, with snowy peaks topping 14,000 feet. Much of the area is above timberline. The area is punctuated by clear mountain lakes, swift cold streams, alpine meadows, high stands of spruce, and large areas of bare rock and rock slides. As a designated Wilderness Area, motor vehicles, bicycles, snowmobiles, chain saws, etc. are prohibited.
Access is only on foot or on horseback.
There are over 240 miles of trails in the Weminuche. Click the Name of the Drive for specific travel information. Byway San Juan Skyway Plan Your Vacation to Witness Nature's Special Events Desert areas are in full bloom by late April or early May, while high alpine tundra is still snow covered. Wildflowers in an amazing array usually peak in July when the high country becomes fully accessible. Fall colors generally peak in mid or late September, working their way down the slopes until late October.