Description
- Included in this ranger district is Taylor Reservoir and the mountainous region surrounding it. This area was first used by the Ute Indians and then fortune-seeking miners, and now praised by recreation enthusiasts of all types. The Fossil Ridge Wilderness area lies within this district and provides solitude for those who access it. The public land around Almont brings large mammals of all types, especially during winter when it is closed to vehicle traffic. Crested Butte Mountain Resort in the northern end of the area provides world-class recreation opportunities in all seasons and is best known for extreme skiing terrain. Several mountain passes open during the summer months and provide access to this area from the north, west and east. The West Elk Wilderness is your best bet for true wilderness experience in the region.
Recreation - Popular recreation activities on the Taylor River Ranger District include hunting, fishing, mountain biking, downhill skiing, snowboarding, mountain climbing, backpacking, developed and dispersed camping, boating, four-wheel driving, sightseeing, horseback riding, hiking, picnicking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Climate - Summer high temperatures in much of the forest areas reach into the 70s and low 80s. Evenings are cool, with temperatures that can often dip into the 30s in the high country. Afternoon summer thunderstorms are common. Snow is possible at any time of year in the highest elevations. The high elevation roads and trails are often not clear of snow until at least mid-July. The relative humidity is quite low throughout the year. Winter lows frequently dip well below zero though daytime temperatures are normally in the 20s to 30s. Much of the precipitation comes in the winter, when heavy snow can be expected in the high elevations. Location -
The Taylor River Ranger District encompasses a portion of the Gunnison National Forest north of Gunnison and Blue Mesa Reservoir. It includes the Taylor River drainage and the area around Crested Butte.
|