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Colorado > White River National Forest > Rifle Ranger District

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Rifle Ranger District

All Rifle Ranger District Outdoor Recreation Activities

General Information

Description - The Rifle Ranger District of the White River National Forest is located around the town of Rifle, west of Glenwood Springs.

Attractions - The Rifle Ranger District is administered by the White River National Forest. The forest as a whole, and this ranger district in particular, are rich with cultural history and amazing outdoor opportunities.

The first human use probably occurred from 5,000 to 10, 000 years ago. The Ute Indians were the last Native American Tribe to inhabit the area. The Ute trail from Meeker to Dotsero was a frequently traveled route for these Native Americans. Signs of the early uses of the land by European settlers can still be seen in abandoned mines, wagon roads, and cabins. If you come across these artifacts in your travels, please leave them for future visitors to appreciate.

National forests are still earmarked for multiple uses today. Camping hunting, fishing, and hiking are available throughout the district. Winter brings snow and a variety of cross- country and snowmobile trails with it. Though known for many outdoor activities, it should be noted that the area rock climbing is amazing.

Recreation - Hunting, mountain biking, hiking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, camping and picnicking are accessible in the public lands that surround Rifle.

Climate - Climate conditions in Colorado should be taken seriously throughout the state. Snow and ice are common on roads and trails from mid-October through late April. In the summer months snow is still possible but less common. Varying conditions throughout a given day can be expected throughout the year. Remember that summer days can typically have beautiful sunny mornings and short sudden thunderstorms in the afternoon. Please prepare appropriately for your outdoor experience.

Location - Rifle is located 28 miles west of Glenwood Springs and 62 miles east of Grand Junction on Interstate 70.

Current Conditions & Trip Reports

most of forest still unpassable due to snow/mud conditions Updated: 2005-04-08 12:09:00.0

Ranger Tip: The Rifle Ranger District is located just off the hwy 13 bypass north of the city of Rifle. It is across from the Fravert Reservoir, a watchable wildlife area.

Trip Reports:
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Number of People Encountered: 0-10 ppl
Recommend to a Friend: Highly
Report: Rifle falls is great this time of year, the cold weather ices up some parts of the waterfalls making a pristine setting. The trails and small caves are perfect for kids. Rile falls is located on hwy 325 past Rifle Gap Reserviour. A $5 parks pass is required and can be bought form a ranger or at the self service station.

More Information

Frequently Asked Questions
Email the Local Ranger

Contact Information:
Rifle Ranger Dictrict, 0094 County Road 244 , Rifle, CO, 81650, Phone: 970-625-2371, Fax: 970-625-2532

Additional Information:
Glenwood Springs Area - The Glenwood Springs Area includes Glenwood Canyon, the portion of the Colorado River around Glenwood Springs and the lower Roaring Fork River Valley. The area is located approximately 160 miles west of Denver.
Rifle Area - The town of Rifle is the center of the Rifle Ranger District of the White River National Forest. It's a small community that lies on the Colorado River and Interstate 70 between Grand Junction and Denver.
White River National Forest - The White River National Forest encompasses two and one-quarter million acres of Colorado's central mountains, including many of Colorado's resort destinations.

Links:
White River National Forest - Official Forest Service website.