Published: July 29, 2011 | Updated: February 4, 2026
UPDATE (February 2015): We’re thrilled to share that this effort was successful! Browns Canyon was officially designated as a National Monument on February 19, 2015. Read about How Browns Canyon became a National Monument and what this protection means today.
Browns Canyon “boasts some of Colorado’s most pristine forests, great hunting and fishing habitat, and draws outdoor enthusiasts from across Colorado and the country during nearly every season,” – Former Senator Ken Salazar.
Just below Sugarloaf Mountain, and a few miles north of Salida, where the Arkansas River runs north-to-south through Browns Canyon, lies some of the most beautiful land in Colorado. The rugged nature of the country, with its low rocky hills, semi-desert climate, and proliferation of wildlife makes it unique. Granite canyon walls line the rushing Arkansas River. It also makes it ideal for outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, hunting, and rafting. The lack of rainfall and arid climate also make it uniquely fragile and more susceptible to damage from human activities.
Wilderness areas protect watersheds and forests, protect wildlife species and their habitats, and preserve the pristine solitude of the environment for those who appreciate the natural beauty of the wilderness, today and in future generations.
In addition to protecting the fragile and beautiful eco-system of the Browns Canyon area, the proposed Wilderness would protect the numerous recreational opportunities the proposed Wilderness area affords. Rafting Browns Canyon is one of the most popular white water rafting destinations in the world. Browns Canyon of the Arkansas River is a beautiful boulder-strewn river where the whitewater is lively and constant, and there is something for every skill level, featuring exciting whitewater rapids like Pinball, Zoom-Flume, Big Drop, Seven Stairs and Widow-maker. The proposed Wilderness would protect the natural beauty of the area, and help preserve one of the best river-rafting destinations in Colorado.
Unfortunately, although it has numerous supporters among Colorado outdoor enthusiasts and Colorado congressmen and women, past and present, progress toward making the area a protected Wilderness has stalled.
Mission Accomplished – UPDATE (February 2015)! Thanks to widespread support from outdoor enthusiasts, local businesses, and conservation advocates, Browns Canyon received federal protection as a National Monument in 2015. Today, over 21,000 acres are permanently protected for future generations to enjoy. Learn more about Browns Canyon National Monument or book a Browns Canyon rafting trip through this incredible protected landscape.
