The forest occupies land in Archuleta, Conejos, Dolores, Hinsdale, La Plata, Mineral, Montezuma, Rio Grande, San Miguel and San Juan Counties.

The forest covers most of the southern portion of the San Juan Mountains west of the Continental Divide.

The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad passes through the National Forest.

There are local ranger district offices in Bayfield, Dolores, and Pagosa Springs.

[4] President Barack Obama designated part of the forest as Chimney Rock National Monument by proclamation on September 21, 2012.