History of Eagles Nest Wilderness in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 12, 2025

Eagles Nest Wilderness, established in 1976, is a 135,114-acre U.S. Wilderness Area situated in the Gore Range, Colorado, spanning Summit and Eagle Counties. Managed by the Dillon and Holy Cross Ranger Districts within the White River National Forest, it features 180 miles of trails. In 2010, the Hidden Gems proposal suggested expanding wilderness protection to include areas such as Elliot Ridge, Tenmile, and Lower Piney within the same counties.

1976: Eagles Nest Wilderness Established

In 1976, the Eagles Nest Wilderness, encompassing 135,114 acres and 180 miles of trails in the Gore Range near Vail, Copper Mountain, Frisco, Silverthorne, and Heeney, was officially established.

2010: Hidden Gems Proposal

In 2010, the Hidden Gems proposal suggested adding more land to the Eagles Nest Wilderness, particularly in the Elliot Ridge, Tenmile, and Lower Piney regions of Summit and Eagle Counties.