Wilderness -- "an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain ... an area protected and managed so as to preserve its natural conditions." —The Wilderness Act of 1964
The Rawah Wilderness is administered by the USDA Forest Service and was incorporated into the national wilderness system in 1964. It encompasses 76,394 acres. Elevations in the wilderness range from about 8,400 feet to 12,951 feet, the elevation of Clark Peak. The high mountains of the wilderness are spectacular and are all within the Rawah range, a southern extension of the Medicine Bow Mountains. This scenic high country was markedly shaped by glaciation, which created the U-shaped valleys and rugged peaks that bring visual uniqueness to this marvelous landscape. To the south and west of the area lies the almost roadless Colorado State Forest State Park, an unofficial extension of the Wilderness. On the upper forested slopes of the mountains, especially in the southern section, expanses of old-growth spruce and fir abound.
This high alpine area contains the headwaters of McIntyre, Rawah and Fall Creeks, as well as the Laramie River. The wilderness includes 25 named lakes ranging in size from five to 39 acres. These streams and lakes support cutthroat, rainbow, lake, and brown trout as well as graylings. The Rawah also hosts many mammals such as elk, moose, mule deer, black bear, bighorn sheep, marmot and beaver. There are many species of birds including the red-tailed hawk, golden eagle, white-tailed ptarmigan, raven, Steller's jay, and a variety of warblers. There are 85 miles of trails in the wilderness that provide wonderful access to these lakes and streams and to the high mountain peaks that all make this area very special.
The geocache is located relatively close to the southern boundary of the wilderness area, just east of Colorado State Forest State Park close to the trail that ascends to Montgomery Pass. It is accessible throughout the year, but is unlikely to be found during periods of deep snow cover. It's a small-size container of approximately 1-quart volume. Have fun on your hike and during your search for the cache.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ArkF FOR THE FTF!!
Near The Boundary--Rawah Wilderness Area 2
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