Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness

The Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness, located in Colorado's White River National Forest encompasses 82,729 acres. The region lies east of Aspen and north of Highway 82 along Independence Pass. The area was designated wilderness in the Endangered American Wilderness Act of 1978. Elevations within the wilderness range from 9,000 to over 13,000 feet.

The wilderness contains the headwaters of the Fryingpan River and Hunter Creek along with numerous tributaries of the Roaring Fork River. The prolific fisheries within the wilderness make the area a haven for trout fishing enthusiasts. Gold medal status for these rivers has resulted in catch restrictions to protect the large trout.

There are over 50 miles of constructed trails available to hikers and horse travelers through the vast terrain. Dark forests of pine and ragged peaks of the Williams Mountains dominate the landscape. The Collegiate and Holy Cross Wilderness areas, which are dominated by 14'ers, surround the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness adding the to enormity of this wild and raw land.

Recreation opportunities in the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness include hiking, backpacking, mountain climbing, fishing and horseback riding. Mechanized and motorized vehicles are not permitted within any wilderness area. The objective of establishing wilderness areas was to keep nature at its best in original form, and also to preserve solitude. The Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness offers outstanding opportunities for just that – perfect wilderness solitude.