Uncompahgre National Forest, National forest in western Colorado, United States.
Uncompahgre National Forest is a large woodland area spread across eight counties in western Colorado. It contains high mountains, mountain lakes at high elevation, and thick forests where many animal species live.
This forest was officially established as a national forest in 1905. Over the following decades, neighboring forest areas were merged into its management, expanding the land under its administration.
Multiple Native American tribes have called these mountains and valleys home for centuries, and their connection to the land remains an important part of their identity today. Visitors can encounter place names and sites that reflect this long-standing presence.
Visitor information and permits for activities are available at several locations throughout the forest. It is helpful to contact or visit these offices before heading out to get maps and guidance for your trip.
Near Ouray, there is a site with more than 100 fossilized footprints of a large dinosaur from long ago. These tracks are visible in the rock and show where this giant animal once walked.
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