Regulations

Recommended Practices

Regulations

These regulations are enforced by Wilderness Rangers who visit the area. 

Regulations specific to Chicago Basin Area:

• Camping is not allowed in Twin Lakes Basin (north of Chicago Basin). This includes the entire area bounded by the three 14-ers.

• Campfires are not allowed in the Needle Creek drainage. This includes Chicago Basin, Twin Lakes Basin, and the alpine basins below Columbine Pass. 

Regulations for all of Weminuche Wilderness:  The Chicago Basin area is within the Weminuche Wilderness, so all of these regulations must be followed. The regulations are designed to help ensure the protection of the wilderness environment.

• Maximum group size is limited to 15 per group, with maximum combination of people and stock not to exceed 25.

• Camping is not permitted within 100' (approximately 35 adult steps) of streams or lakes, except as designated or posted.

• Disposal of human waste and wash water is prohibited within 100' feet  (35 adult steps) of any water source.

• Pack out and properly dispose of all trash. Do not bury it. 

• Shortcutting of switchbacks is prohibited.

• Pets must be under voice control or physical restraint.

• Recreational livestock are prohibited from being restrained within 100' (35 adult steps) of water.

• All livestock feed must be certified weed free.

• Possession of motorized equipment and mechanized means of transport are not permitted.

Regulations for the National Forest: Chicago Basin is within the San Juan National Forest, so National Forest regulations must be followed.

• Cutting or damaging live trees is prohibited.
• Caching of equipment for more than 14 days is not permitted.
• Permits ARE required if you are outfitting or leading a group of any size for monetary or other compensation, even if you are doing so for a nonprofit organization. Contact the USDA Forest Service to confirm that your outfitter has a permit.
• Hunting is regulated by the Colorado Division of Wildlife.

Other regulations: Click here for regulations in other areas of the Weminuche Wilderness as well as San Jan National Forest forestwide regulations.

Recommended Practices

Because Chicago Basin is a heavy use area, it is very important to minimize your impacts so visitors that follow you can enjoy the area as much as you. The USDA Forest Service and San Juan Mountains Association strongly recommend that you follow Leave No Trace Principles when you visit the Chicago Basin area.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare—Pack a camp Stove and fuel. Get a Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue Card.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces—Don’t skirt puddles or mud.
• Dispose of Waste Properly—Carry out toilet paper and feminine hygiene products in doubled plastic bags. Animals will dig up buried paper.
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts—Remember campfires are not allowed in Chicago Basin or in the Needle Creek Drainage. Be sure to check on forest fire conditions regarding any campfire restrictions in effect in surrounding areas.
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors—Do not camp in open meadows.