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.
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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.
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