The Sentinel of The Yampa.
It's not a National Forest—it's something more fragile. 880 acres of basalt-capped BLM land rising 1,000 feet above the valley. A critical winter refuge and a geologist's dream.
Elevation
7,500 ft
BLM Managed Land
Google might say "National Forest," but us locals know better. This is a Special Recreation Management Area. It's preserved for habitat first, recreation second.
Day-Use Only
No camping allowed. The mountain closes at sunset. This rule protects the mule deer and elk that rely on this high-ground refuge for winter survival.
Wear Blaze Orange
Seasonal hunting is permitted. If you're hiking the Stearns Trail in autumn, wear orange. Be seen. Be safe. Respect the multi-use nature of BLM land.
Winter Range Alert
Critical Habitat Area • Dec 1 - Apr 30
During winter months, deer and elk metabolism slows significantly to survive the harsh conditions. Human disturbance forces them to run, burning critical fat reserves needed for survival.
A Geological Fortress
Cedar Mountain is an anomaly. An ancient basalt lava flow capped the chalky Browns Park Formation sandstone, saving it from the erosion that leveled the surrounding valley.
This unique geology created a high-elevation "island" habitat.
- Winter Range: Critical for Mule Deer and Elk.
- Raptor Nesting: Look up for Golden Eagles and Red-tailed Hawks on the cliffs.
- Restoration: BLM is actively thinning pinyon-juniper to restore vital sagebrush meadows.
The Stearns Trail
A moderate 3-mile loop that skirts the rim. You aren't just hiking; you're patrolling the edge of the valley. To the south, the Williams Fork Mountains. To the east, the Bears Ears peaks.