Discover Mount Zirkel Wilderness: Colorado's Untamed Backcountry Paradise
Designated as one of Colorado's five original wilderness areas, Mount Zirkel Wilderness spans a vast, roadless landscape featuring pristine glacial lakes, rugged granite peaks, and endless opportunities for secluded backcountry hiking and camping. Straddling the Continental Divide, it's nourished by the Elk and Encampment Rivers. Local experts rave about the iconic Zirkel Circle hike, a stunning 10-mile alpine loop linking Gilpin Lake and Gold Creek Lake.
From Steamboat Springs, prime trails like Mad Creek and Red Dirt are easily reachable via Elk River Road to the north. Dominating the skyline at 12,180 feet is Mount Zirkel, named by legendary mountaineer Clarence King in 1874 after his German petrologist companion during early explorations. This expansive area offers true solitude, even in peak season.
Key access points cluster around Steamboat Springs, with additional entry from Walden or Clark. For comprehensive maps, trail details, and info on hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and more, visit the USFS Hahns Peak Ranger Office.
Trails Illustrated offers detailed Hahns Peak/Steamboat Lake and Clark/Buffalo Pass maps, while Jay and Therese Thompson's The Hiker's Guide to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness provides in-depth trail descriptions.
