Abandoned mine shafts and ghost towns dot the landscape, emblems of the Uncompahgre's Gold Rush past. Prospectors staked their claims in the 1800s and built up towns like Telluride that have since become wildly popular vacation destinations. The roads built by the miners now serve as major thoroughfares into the forest's vast backcountry. Come mid-summer, the snows in the high country finally melt, and alpine meadows explode in a riotous display of red Indian paintbrush, columbine, and buttercups. The aspen turn a brilliant gold as autumn descends, and elk bugle in the valleys.
Winter brings deep snows and great skiing.
Whatever kind of outdoor adventure you crave, the Uncompahgre has it. All rights reserved.