The James Peak Wilderness is a U.S. Wilderness Area in north central Colorado in the Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests. The wilderness area borders Indian Peaks Wilderness to the north and the James Peak Protection Area to the west.

Geography

The wilderness area encompasses 17015 acre immediately east of the Continental Divide in Gilpin County and Clear Creek County. The wilderness is named after its second tallest mountain, 13294 ft James Peak. Within its boundaries are 30 miles (48 km) of trails. Parry Peak is the highest peak in the James Peak Wilderness, at 13391 ft.

History

The wilderness was established by H.R.1576 in the 107th Congress (2001). James Peak was named after Edwin James, pioneer and botanist. Originally Pikes Peak was named James Peak prior to Pike's exploration journey. After the renaming to Pikes Peak, the current James Peak was named.