Things to Do in Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area

The Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area is a 16,301-acre region in southwestern Colorado, administered by the Bureau of Land Management. It features diverse terrain, from forested hillsides to alpine tundra, with elevations reaching 14,048 feet (4,282 m) at Handies Peak. The area is known for its rugged alpine landscape and natural features.

The Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and jogging. Komoot lists 6 routes within the area. These routes cater to various skill levels across its mountainous terrain.

Popular hiking routes include the Handies Peak Trail, which leads to the summit, and the Cataract Lake Trail, an 8.6-mile (13.8 km) out-and-back route. The American Basin Trail offers views of Sloan Lake, while the Grizzly Gulch Trail provides a scenic 8-mile (12.8 km) path to Handies Peak. More information can be found in the Hiking in Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area guide.

Yes, the Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area offers challenging routes suitable for jogging through its varied landscapes. These trails provide opportunities for faster-paced exploration of the region's mountainous terrain. Consult the Running Trails in Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area guide for specific options.

Key natural features include Handies Peak, which stands at 14,048 feet (4,282 m), and twelve other peaks over 13,000 feet (3,962 m). The area also contains alpine lakes like Sloan Lake and Turkey Thief Lake, and is home to the headwaters of Lake Fork Creek. Glacial cirques and rugged rock formations are also prominent.

No, day-hiking and backpacking in the Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area are generally free and permit-free. Visitors should still practice leave-no-trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

The summer months are generally suitable for visiting, with wildflower displays particularly vibrant from July to August. It is advisable to start hikes early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, especially during summer.

The Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area has been explored by more than 150 visitors on komoot. The area features 6 routes for various outdoor activities, including hiking and jogging.

The Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area offers a range of trails, generally considered moderate to difficult due to high-altitude conditions and rugged terrain. Visitors should be prepared for challenging routes, though some trails may offer less strenuous sections at lower elevations.

Official information about the Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area can be found on the Bureau of Land Management's website. The BLM Gunnison Field Office can also be contacted directly for inquiries. The official website is https://www.blm.gov/visit/handies-peak-wsa.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Gunnison Field Office administers the Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area. They can be reached by phone at +1-970-642-4940 for inquiries.

The Handies Peak Wilderness Study Area supports diverse fauna. Common wildlife sightings may include elk, deer, black bear, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Various small mammals also inhabit the region.