Copyright: - US Forest Service
Trappers Amphitheater as seen from Ripple Creek
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Description - The Blanco Ranger District encompasses the northwest portion of the White River National Forest. It includes much of the Flat Tops Mountains and the upper White River drainage.
Attractions
- The Blanco Ranger District is home to the Flat Tops Wilderness. This area is known as the 'Cradle of Wilderness,' because of it's early designation and preservation as a wild area. Also situated on the district are over 250 miles of trails ranging from several hundred yards to over 20 miles in length. Ten campgrounds are situated on the district offering nearly 150 sites. These campgrounds offer varying levels of service. Many backcountry and dispersed camping opportunities also exist throughout the district. Please follow camping regulations while you visit the district and be sure to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles. Winter use in the district is popular. Over 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails cut through the district and hundreds of ungroomed areas outside of Flat Tops Wilderness provide adventures for the more advanced rider. In addition, many miles of ungroomed cross-country trails give access to the Flat Tops Wilderness for a true feeling of solitude.
Recreation - The Blanco Ranger District outside of Meeker, Colorado is known for beauty and a diverse array of recreation opportunities. Big game hunting is excellent. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and snow camping in this area offers the solitude and quiet that make these activities so rewarding. During the warmer months visitors to the area can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, four-wheeling and camping. Climate - In the valley bottoms, summer high temperatures extend into the mid 80s, with cool evenings that can often dip into the 30s. Winter lows occasionally dip to minus 30 degrees, though daytime temperatures are often in the 20s to 30s. The relative humidity is quite low throughout the year. Most of the area and its recreation facilities lie at higher elevations where significantly lower temperatures and more precipitation can be expected. Afternoon summer thunderstorms are common. Snow is possible at any time of year in the highest elevations. The high elevation roads and trails are often not clear of snow until mid-July. Location -
The Blanco Ranger District occupies a northwestern corner of the White River National Forest. The administrative offices are in the town of Meeker.
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