Windy Ridge Bristlecone Pine Scenic Area

Windy Ridge Bristlecone Scenic Area is a remote natural preserve near Alma, Colorado, renowned for its ancient, wind-sculpted bristlecone pine trees. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 11,700' on the eastern flank of Mount Bross and offers excellent views of South Park. The trees are in a federally protected Scenic Area located within the Pike National Forest.  

The area is only accessible by vehicle during the summer months due to winter snow closures. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended to reach the official parking area.  A non 4WD vehicle should park near the mine and walk up. Park County can supply more info at (719) 836-2031.

Driving directions: (Use GPS Coordinates) From the junction, Colorado 9 and US 285 in Fairplay, follow Colorado 9 north to the Alma city limit (5.7 mi). Turn left at an intersection with a side road on the left in the middle of town across from a gas station (6.0 mui). Continue straight at the first intersection (one block from Colo. 9) and pass a blue sign (Park County 8) on the right side of this good dirt road. Continue on this road and turn right onto Forest Development Road (FDR) #415 at the intersection marked by a sign as access to Mineral Park (8.8 mi). Continue on this dirt road past Sawmill Creek (10.4 mi) to a point where the road seems to empty into a mining area (11.8 mi). Bear left and wind uphill through the remains of the Mineral Park Mine. As the road curves to the right, ignore a side road (11.9mi) on the left marked as FDR #857. Immediately thereafter, ford a small stream and continue up the hill on a slightly steeper portion. The road then curves to the left around some concrete foundations and then to the right as it climbs to the rim of Windy Ridge. A small parking area (12.4 mi) is provided on the right side for the Scenic Area. From the parking lot you can wander out onto the ridge and enjoy viewing the Bristlecone Pines.

• Suitable Activities: Biking, Environmental Awareness, Exploring Nature, Family, Hiking, Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
• Seasons: May, June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Length: 6.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 620 ft
• High Point: 11,364 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  South Park Ranger District (PSINF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12