American Flats Wilderness Study Area is a high-elevation wilderness study area situated in Hinsdale and Ouray Counties, Colorado. This region is characterized by expansive rolling, grassy tundra, centered around Sunshine Mountain, which reaches 13,321 feet, alongside steep mountain summits and alpine meadows. The landscape includes the headwaters of North Fork Hensen Creek, with vegetation primarily consisting of alpine grasses and sedges, transitioning to spruce and fir at lower elevations. These diverse natural features provide a challenging and primitive setting for several outdoor sports like hiking and jogging.
In American Flats Wilderness Study Area, outdoor enthusiasts can find numerous routes suitable for several sports, including hiking and jogging. The high-elevation tundra and challenging mountain terrain offer varied experiences for those seeking to explore the San Juan Mountains. For example, Hiking in American Flats Wilderness Study Area provides detailed options for exploring the alpine environment, while Running Trails in American Flats Wilderness Study Area highlights routes for trail running across the expansive landscape. More than 2,000 visitors have shared their experiences, resulting in an average rating of 4.69 out of 5 stars for routes in this area.
39
Routes
4.8
(21)
Average rating
486
People visited

2
hikers
7.52km
03:13
1,070m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
hikers
4.60km
01:26
170m
150m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

2
hikers
6.39km
03:01
1,080m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

2.73km
00:59
280m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
runners
19.5km
03:16
1,330m
1,330m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5
runners
12.7km
02:24
1,080m
1,080m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4
runners
12.0km
02:03
850m
850m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
runners
8.73km
01:33
670m
670m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The American Flats Wilderness Study Area is a high-elevation region located in Hinsdale and Ouray Counties, Colorado. It is characterized by rolling, grassy tundra, steep mountain summits, and alpine meadows, with Sunshine Mountain reaching 13,321 feet. This area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to preserve its natural conditions and wilderness characteristics.
The American Flats Wilderness Study Area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and jogging. The high-elevation tundra and challenging mountain terrain provide varied experiences for those seeking to explore the San Juan Mountains. Komoot provides guides for Hiking in American Flats Wilderness Study Area and Running Trails in American Flats Wilderness Study Area.
Yes, the American Flats Wilderness Study Area includes options for less strenuous hikes. Komoot offers a dedicated guide for Easy hikes in American Flats Wilderness Study Area. These routes allow visitors to experience the area's natural beauty without requiring extensive physical exertion.
Yes, the American Flats Wilderness Study Area features trails suitable for families. These routes are generally less challenging and offer accessible ways to enjoy the alpine environment. A specific guide for Family-friendly hikes in American Flats Wilderness Study Area is available on komoot.
The American Flats Wilderness Study Area is home to various wildlife species. Visitors may encounter Rocky Mountain elk and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. The area also supports the endangered Uncompahgre Fritillary Butterfly, highlighting its ecological significance.
The American Flats Wilderness Study Area and its vicinity offer opportunities to view waterfalls. Some trails in the surrounding San Juan Mountains, such as parts of the Ouray Perimeter Trail, provide views of waterfalls. Komoot has a guide for Waterfall hikes in American Flats Wilderness Study Area.
The American Flats Wilderness Study Area is a popular destination among komoot users. More than 2,600 visitors have explored routes in this area. The routes have received an average rating of 4.69 out of 5 stars from over 130 ratings.
Komoot offers several guides for the American Flats Wilderness Study Area to help plan outdoor adventures. These include guides for Hiking, Running Trails, Easy hikes, Family-friendly hikes, and Waterfall hikes.
Official information about the American Flats Wilderness Study Area can be found on the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website. The official website for this area is www.blm.gov/visit/american-flats-wsa. For general inquiries, the BLM can be contacted at +1-970-642-4940.
The American Flats Wilderness Study Area lies along the north-central margin of the Uncompahgre-San Juan caldera complex. This geological setting showcases a rich history with exposed volcanic rocks. These include lavas and ash-flow tuffs, providing insight into the region's volcanic past.
The highest point within the American Flats Wilderness Study Area is Sunshine Mountain. This prominent peak stands at an elevation of 13,321 feet (4,060 meters). It is a central feature of the area's high-elevation tundra landscape.

