West Elk Wilderness

The West Elk Wilderness is a U.S. Wilderness Area located northwest of Gunnison, Colorado in the West Elk Mountains.

History
The wilderness was established in 1964 and now protects 176412 acre within the Gunnison National Forest.

Geography
Elevations in the wilderness range from 6800 ft along Coal Creek to 13042 ft at the summit of West Elk Peak. The area supports large elk and deer populations and is busiest during the fall hunting season.