The best walks and hikes in Papa Keal Wilderness Study Area

The Papa Keal Wilderness Study Area is located about 20 miles northeast of Alamosa, Colorado. Access is generally via the roads leading towards the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As it's an undeveloped area, there are no formal trailheads or parking lots directly within the WSA. Visitors typically find access points off local roads and navigate from there.

No, the Papa Keal Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is intentionally kept undeveloped and does not have any officially marked or maintained trails. Hiking here is a true backcountry experience that requires excellent navigation skills. The dry streambeds can often be used as natural routes to explore the terrain.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted in the Papa Keal WSA and on surrounding BLM-managed lands, but they must be under your control at all times to protect wildlife and the natural environment. Keep in mind that the terrain is rugged and there are no water sources, so be sure to carry enough water for both you and your pet.

Yes, while the WSA itself is for experienced hikers, the surrounding area has easier options. The Zapata Creek and benches – Zapata Falls loop from Zapata Falls is a short, accessible walk of about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) that's great for families and offers rewarding scenery.

Yes, primitive, dispersed camping is allowed within the Papa Keal WSA. This means there are no designated campsites or facilities like restrooms or water. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and properly disposing of waste.

The terrain is rugged and varied. It consists of the western-facing slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Range, featuring rolling foothills at the base, dense pinyon-juniper woodlands, and numerous small valleys carved by intermittent streams. Elevation gain can be significant, and the lack of trails means you'll be navigating natural features.

While the WSA itself has no formal trails, komoot features about 15 established routes in the immediate vicinity, including trails in the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. These range from easy walks to difficult mountain hikes.

The trails around the Papa Keal WSA are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the solitude, the rugged beauty of the landscape, and the sense of true wilderness adventure.

Yes, the nearby Zapata Falls is a major attraction. You can see it on the South Zapata Lake Trail & Zapata Waterfall — Sangre de Cristo Wilderness hike. The waterfall is uniquely situated in a rock crevice and is often frozen in the winter, creating a spectacular ice formation.

For a moderately challenging route, consider the Mosca Pass Trail — Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. It's a 6.2-mile (10 km) trail that follows a historic path through forests and meadows, offering a more structured experience than the WSA itself.

Since there are no trails or facilities, you must be self-sufficient. Essential items include:

• Navigation: A map, compass, and GPS device are critical.
• Water: Carry more than you think you'll need, as there are no reliable water sources.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are important due to the high elevation and exposure.
• Sturdy Footwear: The terrain is uneven and rocky.
• Safety Gear: A first-aid kit and emergency communication device are highly recommended.

The Papa Keal Wilderness Study Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). For the most current rules on camping, campfires, and other activities, it's best to consult the official source. You can find more information on the BLM's Papa Keal WSA page.