OverviewAt 12,354 ft, Flat Top is the highest peak in the Flattops Wilderness Area in northwest Colorado. The easiest access is from Stillwater Resevoir although it can also be accessed from Trappers Lake. From Stillwater, the easiest route is a class 1 walk up. Roundtrip from the parking lot to the summit is 7 miles with a 2000 ft. elevation gain.
The Flattops Wilderness is the second largest wilderness area in Colorado. It comprises 235,214 acres within the Routt and White River National Forests. Although not as high as most other Colorado ranges, the Flattops are every bit as pristine and secluded. This wilderness is a popular area for multi-day backpacking and fishing trips.
Getting ThereThe Flattops Wilderness is located about halfway between I-70 and Steamboat Springs. From I-70, Exit at Wolcott (between Eagle and Avon) and head north on highway 131 for 42 miles. Exit the highway at Yampa. Yampa is the "Gateway to the Flattops". Once in Yampa, begin heading southwest on Bear River Road (CO Rt 7). Continue along this road for 18 miles until it dead ends at the Stillwater Resevoir parking lot.
Winter road closure varies. From mid-November through mid-April, the road is closed where the pavement ends (10 miles from Stillwater). In late April, another 7 miles of the road opens allowing access to Bear Lake. In early June (when the snow finally clears) the last 3 miles of the road opens allowing access to Stillwater Resevoir.
When To ClimbIdeal climbing conditions are found from mid-June to mid-October (barring any big early season storms).
Contact the Yampa Ranger District for up-to-date road, trail, and wildfire conditions:
PO Box 7
300 Roselawn St.
Yampa, Colorado 80483
970-638-4516
CampingThe Cold Springs and Horseshoe campgrounds are located near Stillwater Resevoir. The Bear Lake campground is located (big surprise) near Bear Lake. And the East Marvine campground is located near Trappers Lake.
There is also abundant opportunity for backcountry camping within the Flattops Wilderness. Many well hidden alpine lakes are scattered throughout the area, and most of them can be fished.
Colorado Campgrounds
Miscellaneous InfoAerial view of the Flat Top Wilderness
External Links Images
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Flat Tops
