Pecos Wilderness Area

In 1964 Congress designated nearly 200,000 acres of land near Pecos, New Mexico as the Pecos Wilderness. In 1980 an additional 55,000 acres were added bringing the total to 223,667 acres of unspoilt wilderness. The wilderness extends through two Ranger Districts in the Santa Fe National Forest and into the Carson National Forest to the north. Within the boundaries of this expansive area are several landmarks including Truchas Peak which tops of at 13,103 feet, and the southern stretch of the Rocky Mountains.

The terrain varies from open meadows in the Pecos River Valley to the steep canyons of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Wildlife ranges from deer and elk to big horn sheep, turkeys and grouse. It is not uncommon to run into cattle in the wilderness either, as some ranchers are permitted to graze their cattle in areas of the wilderness.

There are 15 lakes, and eight major streams to sustain both plant and animal habitat, including the native Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout.

A hiking and backpacking trip with an America Outdoors outfitter is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Pecos Wilderness!