Meeker, gateway to the White River National Forest and the Flattops Wilderness (accessible only by foot or on horseback), attracts many visitors who come for the excellent fishing and hunting. The White River Forest, with one of the largest elk herds in Colorado, has 111 miles of fishable streams and 780 acres of lakes. Named for Nathan C. Meeker who arrived in 1878 to head White River Indian Agency, the town sits amidst hidden valleys, hot springs and quiet retreats which prompted Utes to call it the land of shining mountains. Meeker is still a ranching community with old brick buildings and relaxed, small-town atmosphere. In 1919, Arthur Carhart, a Forest Service landscape architect working east of Meeker, wanted to create wilderness preserves which would be conserved forever, untouched by man and civilization. His idea was the core of the 1964 Wilderness Act which was fought by most Colorado politicians. Today, however, it's the designated wilderness areas that bring a steady stream of tourists. Wildlife in Piceance Basin includes thousands of animals that pick their way through Sagebrush, Cedar, Piņon, Juniper, and Douglas Fir. The basin has some 1,200 elk, 350 species of wildlife, 22 species of raptors, ranging from owls to eagles, and even a wild horse herd.

During September, the Meeker Classic Sheepdog Championship Trials take place. This festival includes a handling exhibition, art exhibit and sale, craft festival, breakfasts and lamb feast, bag piper, food, and stockdog jackpot and calcutta. This is an annual event scheduled the first Wednesday through Sunday following Labor Day. An excellent way to spend time with family and a spectacle of intelligent, athletic Sheep Dogs.

Meeker is near: Dinosaur