Introduction
The United States Congress designated the Neota Wilderness (
map) in 1980 and it now has a total of
9,924 acres.
All of this wilderness is located in
Colorado and is managed by the Forest Service.
The Neota Wilderness is bordered by
the
Rawah Wilderness to the northwest, the
Comanche Peak Wilderness to the east, and the
Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness to the south.
Description
Bordering Rocky Mountain National Park on the south and surrounded by other Wilderness areas, little Neota actually stands in a huge expanse of virtually roadless country. With elevations ranging between 10,000 and 11,896 feet, snow enjoys a long life here. Neota protects flattened ridges of granite atypical of the steep-sided Rockies. Just outside the southwestern boundary, Iron Mountain at 12,265 feet looks down on three main drainages within the area: Trap, Corral, and Neota Creeks. Along the summer-wet valleys of these streams, willows and sedges grow thick and occasionally hide a moose or two. You'll find spruce and fir on the lower slopes, home to deer and elk. You won't find maintained trails or ample opportunities to be alone.
