Flat Tops Wilderness (Blanco District Section)

Copyright: USDA Forest Service Marvine Trail

The 235,230 acre Flat Tops Wilderness is the third largest Wilderness Area in Colorado. The Flat Tops comprise the northern extent of the White River Plateau. Glaciation occurred approximately 13,000 to 17,400 years ago. This left many glacial lakes and U-shaped valleys.

Attractions - The 235,230 acre Flat Tops Wilderness is the third largest Wilderness Area in Colorado. The Flat Tops comprise the northern extent of the White River Plateau. Glaciation occurred approximately 13,000 to 17,400 years ago. This left many glacial lakes and U-shaped valleys.

Sizable herds of deer and elk use this area as summer range. Other wildlife species include black bear, fox, coyote, bobcat, pine marten, mink, beaver, snowshoe hare, marmot and pika. On rare occasions, moose, bighorn sheep and mountain lions can be seen.

The Colorado River cutthroat trout, once abundant in the wilderness, are now reduced in numbers and distribution. Anglers are encouraged to use a catch and release approach with this sensitive species. Also found are brook trout, rainbow trout and brown trout.

The Flat Tops Wilderness contains a wide range of vegetation zones influenced by elevation and climate. At lower elevations, between 7,500 and 9,000 feet, south facing slopes are usually covered with sage, Gambel's oak and aspen. The moister north facing slopes are characterized by dense stands of conifers. Lodgepole pine is the conspicuous conifer at low to mid-elevations. Moving higher, Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir become the dominant forest cover. Tree line occurs at about 11,000 feet. In the harsh conditions at tree line, the spruce and fir trees become stunted and gnarled, taking on strange contorted shapes. This is the krummholtz (a German word meaning "twisted wood"). Above tree line is the alpine tundra. The low ground-hugging plants in the tundra evolved in this severe climate over millions of years. They remain in a delicate balance with their environment and can be easily destroyed if disturbed.

Recreation - The Flat Tops Wilderness offers a variety of backcountry recreation opportunities. Some activities include hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, backcountry camping, fishing and hunting. Like all wilderness areas mechanized and motorized vehicles are not permitted within the Flat Tops boundaries. Please understand and use "No Trace" backcountry ethics when using this area for recreation purposes.

Climate - Elevations in the Flat Tops Wilderness range from 8,700 to 12,347 feet. Weather in the high country can change rapidly. Temperatures below freezing and snowfall can occur any month of the year. Be prepared for all weather.

Afternoon thunderstorms often form in the summer. In case of lightning, move down from high ground (below tree line). Avoid ridge tops and open meadows. Think ahead and get to safe areas before the storm hits.

Location - The Flat Tops Wilderness lies in northwest Colorado, at the northern end of the White River Plateau. The wilderness is generally accessed from either Meeker, Yampa or the Eagle area. From Meeker, the wilderness is accessed from the Buford Road, County Road 8, east of Meeker. This road is a section of the Flat Tops Scenic and Historic Byway. The headwaters of the North and South Forks of the White River initiate in the region.