Wheeler Geologic Area

Located in the La Garita Wilderness which spans 129,626 acres within Gunnison and Rio Grande National Forests in Colorado, the Wheeler Geologic Area is one of nature's geological marvels.

US Forest Service Information:

"Forest Road #600 from Hanson's Mill to Wheeler is often one of the last roads to open on the forest and first to close. There may be closures during wet periods. Check our Road Status page or call the Divide Ranger District at 719-657-3321.

In addition to East Bellows Creek Trail # 790, from Hansons Mill and Wason- Wheeler Trail  #789 from north of Creede, there are several trails that either lead to Wheeler or from Wheeler on into the La Garita Wilderness.

Check out related trails: West Bellows Trail #871, Halfmoon Pass Trail # 912, Machin Basin Trail # 784, Middle Fork Trail #783 and Middle Fork Cutoff Trail # 888.

At the end of the Wheeler Road #600 there are several dispersed campsites for the public to use. You are not allowed to camp or have campfires inside the area of the formations. Dispersed camping is allowed at Hansons Mill site located just south of the East Bellows Creek trailhead."

Source: www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=29264

Note the Wheeler Road is jeep traveled.  Coming in from the north gets you out of that.

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Camping, Hiking
• Seasons: May, June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• High Point: 11,400 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  La Garita Wilderness Area, Saguache Ranger District (RGNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12