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American Flats Wilderness Study Area

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American Flats Wilderness Study Area

Things to Do in American Flats Wilderness Study Area

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.

Things to Do in American Flats Wilderness Study Area

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.

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Directions

Phone number

39

Routes

4.8

(21)

Average rating

486

People visited

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Hiking in American Flats Wilderness Study AreaSee all
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2

hikers

Redcloud Peak

7.52km

03:13

1,070m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard
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1

hikers

Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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2.73km

00:59

280m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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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.

Hard
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5

runners

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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4

runners

12.0km

02:03

850m

850m

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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3

runners

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Explore the region

Hiking in American Flats Wilderness Study Area

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do in Uncompahgre Wilderness

Frequently asked questions

What is the American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

What outdoor activities are available in American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

Are there easy hiking 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.

Are there family-friendly hiking options in American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

What kind of wildlife can be seen in American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

Are there any waterfalls in American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

How popular is American Flats Wilderness Study Area on komoot?

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.

What komoot guides are available for American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

Where can I find official information about American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

What are the geological features of American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

What is the highest point in American Flats Wilderness Study Area?

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.

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