Platte River Wilderness

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The United States Congress designated the Platte River Wilderness in 1984 and it now has a total of 23,492 acres. Colorado contains approximately 743 acres. Wyoming contains approximately 22,749 acres. It is managed by the Forest Service.

Platte River Wilderness Area

About 36 square miles of forested land lying primarily north and east of the North Platte River is included in this Wyoming Wilderness, with a small segment in Colorado’s Routt National Forest.

On the Colorado side, no Wilderness covers less acreage. The North Platte River enters Routt National Forest about four miles south of the Wyoming state line and flows north through a portion of the Wilderness and North Gate Canyon, a popular white-water rafting section of water.

Elevations average 7,700 feet with the wide and relatively flat Platte Ridge rising in the middle of the area between the river and Douglas Creek. Elk and deer winter here.

Both the creek and the river are noted for their excellent trout fishing opportunities.

The Platte River Trail gently parallels the river on the west bank after a steep descent from the Platte River Trailhead. During high water, the trail dead-ends after five miles. During low water (usually in late July and August), you can ford the river and continue on the east bank.

The Douglas Creek Trail follows the creek for 9.5 miles through an open canyon with trailheads at both ends. You can hike a loop from the Pelton Creek Trailhead by exiting the Douglas Creek Trail to return via the Platte River Trail.

Restrictions n the Platte River Wilderness Area

ALL VISITORS

Camping is prohibited within one hundred (100) feet of trails, lakes or streams.

Human waste must be deposited at least one hundred (100) feet from lakes, streams, trails or campsites. Use a shovel or trowel and bury waste at least 6 inches below ground.

Maximum group size allowed is twenty-five (25) heartbeats, with a maximum combined fifteen (15) persons and ten (10) horses/mules/lamas, etc. The maximum number of people allowed in any group is fifteen (15).

Dogs and other pets or animals must be under control at all times to prevent harassment or disturbance to wildlife, people, personal property and livestock.

Wagons, carts (including game carts and wheelbarrows), bicycles, and other motorized, mechanized, or wheeled vehicles are prohibited.

STOCK USERS

Only certified weed-free hay or supplemental feed (such as alfalfa pellets or treated grain) may be used for feed or bedding. Note: Certified hay is required for all Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests lands.

OVERNIGHT VISITORS

Camping is limited to 21 consecutive days. After 21 days visitors must move themselves and all camping equipment, supplies and personal belongings off National Forest lands for a period of three (3) consecutive days.

It is illegal to store or leave unattended any equipment, personal property, or supplies for more than 24 hours.

It is illegal to construct permanent camping structures. All temporary camp structures (e.g. tent frames, meat poles, etc.) must be completely dismantled after use and before leaving a campsite.