Description
- The Buffalo Peaks Wilderness, encompassing 43,410 acres, was designated by Congress in the Colorado Wilderness Act of 1993. The name comes from the thirteen thousand foot Buffalo Peaks located 15 miles southwest of Fairplay, Colorado, which are the most distinctive features of the region. Elevations range from 9,200 feet to 13,326 feet. This area differs from the surrounding wildernesses by virtue of its high potential for solitude.Conifers and aspens intermingle with rolling meadows full of grasses and wildflowers. The fall color display is spectacular. The dark double summits of Buffalo Peaks are two highly eroded volcanic mountains. They were active some 28 million yeas ago when uplifting stressed and cracked the earth's surface. These features offer wonderful experiences for all levels of naturalists.
Recreation - The designation Wilderness Area essentially means to recreationists that no motorized or mechanized vehicles are permitted within the area boundaries. Wilderness Areas are wonderful places to backpack, hike, camp, fish and ride horseback. Climate - The climate of the region is affected mainly by the high elevation. Days with sun are the norm. The sun is warm in every season. Summer days can range in temperature from 90 to 45 degrees. Winter days can easily reach 55 degrees and sunscreen is usually necessary. Nights are cool in every season and can be severe during the winter. Always be prepared for precipitation. Hypothermia can strike in any season. Location -
Buffalo Peaks Wilderness is located northeast of Buena Vista, Colorado, and southwest of Fairplay, Colorado. It lies between Highways 24 and 285. Weston Pass four-wheel drive road (County Road 22) skirts the northern boundary of the area. Forest Developed Roads 431, 435 and 375 access the area from the east, southeast and south respectively.
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