Rio Grande National Forest

About Rio Grande National Forest

The Rio Grande National Forest (NF) is one of Colorado's true undiscovered gems, home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States and the second largest national forest in the world. It runs along the continental border and covers more than 2,000 square miles of land with a total area of over 1.5 million hectares.

The forest is home to the Wheeler Geologic Area, founded in 1911 by Theodore Roosevelt and also carrying the spring water of the Rio Grande. The forest covers more than 1.5 million acres and is the largest archaeological site in the United States. It features some of Colorado's most beautiful landscapes and the second largest national forest in America. Anasazi were visitors here and many of their sites are still preserved, as are the remains of a large number of ancient civilizations.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Rio Grande NF offers leisure and adventure for the soul and loved ones, enjoying the Cumbres Toltec narrow gauge railway that runs through the forests from Antonito, Colorado, to Chama, New Mexico. Albuquerque is 4 hours south and the long summer days change from colorful and fresh autumn days to extreme winters. If you want to do outdoor activities, come and spend a day hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, hiking or camping. Whether on foot, by car or by bike, there is something for everyone in the Rio Grande NF.