Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Colorado (USA)
Colorado Fishing Spots – Looking to cast a line in the beautiful state of Colorado? From crystal-clear mountain streams to serene lakes, there are plenty of excellent fishing spots waiting to be discovered. Here are a few great sportfishing spots in Colorado.
Agnes Vaille Falls (Colorado Fishing Spots)
A Majestic Cascade in Chalk Creek Canyon
Agnes Vaille Falls, a beautiful cascade in Chalk Creek Canyon, offers a short, scenic hike. The trail in San Isabel National Forest leads to stunning views of the falls, most impressive during spring and early summer.
A Memorial to a Bold Spirit
Agnes Vaille Falls bears the name of Anges Wolcott Vaille, a remarkable woman who led an adventurous life in Colorado. Tragically, she lost her life during a winter ascent of Longs Peak. A friend and local of Chalk Creek Canyon, Jo Witchey, honored Vaille’s memory by naming the falls after her.
Reaching the Falls: A Scenic Journey (Colorado Fishing Spots)
To reach Agnes Vaille Falls, visitors must embark on a scenic drive. From Buena Vista, take Highway 285 south and turn onto County Road 162 (approximately 5 miles). The falls are situated just west of Mt Princeton Hot Springs, easily identified by a sign on the right side of the road. The journey from Highway 285 covers just over 8 miles.
Exploring Beyond the Falls: Fishing, Ghost Towns, and Off-Road Adventures
After experiencing the beauty of Agnes Vaille Falls, visitors can explore the surrounding area. Just west of the falls on County Road 162, Chalk Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. County Road 162 leads 7 miles to historic Saint Elmo, offering four-wheel drive roads including the challenging Tincup Pass. This region provides a wealth of outdoor adventures, from fishing and exploring abandoned towns to challenging off-road excursions.
Antero Reservoir (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Antero Reservoir: A Fishing Paradise in the Colorado High Country
Nestled in South Park, just west of Hartsel, Colorado, Antero Reservoir is a renowned destination for anglers. Known for its excellent lakes and rivers, this region offers a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Antero Reservoir, situated at an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet, is particularly popular due to its relatively warm waters, a result of its shallow depth.
A Reservoir With a Rich History
Antero Reservoir, named after the Spanish word for “first,” holds a significant place in Colorado’s history. The dam was crucial for water management on the Middle Fork of the South Platte River. Built in 1909, the reservoir is owned by Denver Water and overseen by the Colorado Division of Wildlife.
Outdoor Activities Around Antero Reservoir (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Antero Reservoir offers a variety of recreational activities, attracting visitors seeking adventure in the Colorado high country.
Boating on the Reservoir
Motorized boats are permitted on Antero Reservoir, with a surface area of 2,500 acres providing ample space for boating adventures. Regular aquatic nuisance species inspections are conducted at the boat ramp. All trailered watercraft, including gas-, diesel-, or electric-powered boats, undergo inspections to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Camping by the Lake
The lakeside campground, located at the south side boat ramp, offers 38 campsites equipped with fire rings, tables, and vault bathrooms.
Fishing for Trout (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Fishing is a popular activity at Antero Reservoir, with anglers casting their lines from the shores, piers, or boats. The trout bag and possession limit is two.
Hiking and Picnicking
Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes around the lake. The north side day-use area offers picnic tables for those wishing to enjoy a meal in the tranquil surroundings.
Winter Recreation
During winter, Antero Reservoir transforms into an ice fishing paradise. Anglers can test their skills in the frozen waters.
Arapaho National Forest (Colorado Fishing Spots)
A Mountain Paradise
Arapaho National Forest, covering over 723,744 acres, offers stunning scenery in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. This vast expanse, stretching from south of I-70 to near Rocky Mountain National Park, features towering mountains, pristine lakes, and alpine terrain. Conveniently located west of Denver, the forest is easily accessible from I-70.
Exploring the Forest’s Diverse Landscape
Arapaho National Forest, managed alongside Roosevelt National Forest, is home to a diverse landscape, featuring towering 14,000-foot mountains, including Grays Peak, the highest point along the Continental Divide in North America. Despite its popularity, the forest still contains pockets of untouched wilderness, including the western and northern parts of the Indian Peaks, the southern portion of the Never Summer Range, and the deep drainages around Byers Peak.
A Haven for Mountain Biking Enthusiasts (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Arapaho National Forest is a paradise for mountain bikers, offering a variety of trails for all skill levels. For those seeking a paved route, the Bakerville-Loveland Trail, paralleling Clear Creek and I-70, provides a scenic ride through the mountains. Adventurous cyclists can tackle the challenging climbs of mountain passes like Loveland, Berthoud, and Guanella, enjoying breathtaking views from the summit.
Water Adventures in the Heart of the Rockies
Arapaho National Forest provides a variety of boating opportunities, offering a refreshing escape into the serene beauty of Colorado’s lakes. Lake Granby, the second-largest body of water in Colorado, and Shadow Mountain Lake, both located in Grand County, provide stunning settings for a leisurely boat ride. Williams Fork Reservoir, located adjacent to the northwestern edge of the forest boundary, offers another popular boating option. For those seeking a more intimate experience, smaller bodies of water, such as Georgetown Lake, Echo Lake, Summit Lake, Monarch Lake, and the Forest Lakes near Rollinsville, provide a tranquil setting for kayaking or canoeing.
Camping Under the Stars
Arapaho National Forest offers a variety of camping opportunities, catering to both experienced campers and those seeking a more primitive experience. Established campgrounds can be found near Granby and Grand Lake, Echo Lake, Idaho Springs, Georgetown, and Winter Park. For those seeking a more remote adventure, dispersed camping is permitted in various areas, including the eastern shore of Lake Granby, around Meadow Creek Reservoir, and along Stillwater Pass in Grand County.
Fishing in Pristine Waters (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Arapaho National Forest is a haven for anglers, offering a variety of fishing opportunities in both lakes and rivers. Georgetown Lake, conveniently located along I-70, is a popular destination for trout fishing. Lake Granby, Willow Creek Reservoir, Monarch Lake, and Williams Fork Reservoir provide additional opportunities for still-water fishing.
Hiking Through Majestic Landscapes
Arapaho National Forest boasts a network of trails that wind through its diverse landscapes, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrain. Herman Gulch, a popular trail accessible from I-70, provides a scenic adventure through a lush valley. Loveland Pass and Berthoud Pass offer stunning views of alpine ridges, while trails near Berthoud’s summit lead to the backcountry Broome Hut.
A Winter Wonderland (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Arapaho National Forest transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of winter recreation activities. Winter Park and Loveland Ski Resort provide a variety of inbounds terrain for skiers and snowboarders, while snowmobiling enthusiasts can explore the western side of Corona Pass. Cross-country skiers can enjoy the extensive terrain of Winter Park and Devil’s Thumb Ranch.
Exploring by Car
Arapaho National Forest offers scenic drives that showcase the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Guanelle Pass Scenic Byway, a winding road through diverse environments, leads to a gentle alpine pass with breathtaking views of towering mountains. The Mount Evans Recreation Area and Scenic Byway climbs over 7,000 feet from Idaho Springs to the shoulder of Mount Evans, offering a unique opportunity to experience the highest paved road in the United States.
Off-Road Adventures (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Arapaho National Forest provides a variety of opportunities for off-road enthusiasts. Rollins Pass, a scenic dirt road leading to the continental divide, offers breathtaking views and challenging terrain. Jones Pass Road, another popular dirt road, provides access to numerous primitive campsites. The Yankee Hill off-roading trail, located near Idaho Springs, offers a challenging and rewarding experience for those seeking a thrilling adventure.
Arapaho National Recreation Area (Colorado Fishing Spots)
A Mountain Oasis
Arapaho National Recreation Area (ANRA), a breathtaking expanse of alpine wilderness, offers a tranquil escape into the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. This 36,000-acre haven, located north of Granby, is centered around Lake Granby, the largest of five shimmering lakes that make up this natural paradise.
A Network of Lakes and Recreation
Arapaho National Recreation Area is nestled within the vast Arapaho National Forest, creating a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a connection with nature. Lake Granby, along with its neighboring lakes – Shadow Mountain Lake, Monarch Lake, Willow Creek Reservoir, and Meadow Creek Reservoir – form a network of recreational opportunities, inviting visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty.
A Paradise for Water Lovers (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Arapaho National Recreation Area is a haven for water lovers, offering a variety of boating experiences on its five lakes. Lake Granby, the largest of the five, welcomes powerboats, sailboats, water skiers, and windsurfers, creating a vibrant atmosphere for water sports enthusiasts. Monarch Lake, the smallest of the five, offers a tranquil setting for non-motorized boats, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful paddle. Shadow Mountain Lake, connected to Grand Lake by a canal, offers another breathtaking setting for boating, while Willow Creek Reservoir provides a tranquil haven for non-motorized watercraft. Meadow Creek Reservoir, the smallest of the five, offers a serene escape for those seeking a more intimate boating experience.
Camping Under the Stars
Arapaho National Recreation Area offers a variety of camping options for those seeking a comfortable and scenic escape. The park’s six campgrounds, boasting 474 campsites, provide a range of amenities, from secluded spots to those with stunning views of the lake. Three of the campgrounds offer the convenience of reservations, while the remaining campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
A Fishing Paradise
Arapaho National Recreation Area is a haven for anglers, offering a diverse array of fishing opportunities. Each lake is home to a variety of fish species, ranging from kokanee salmon and brown trout to lake trout and pike. Anglers can enjoy a challenging and rewarding experience, casting their lines in hopes of a memorable catch.
Hiking Through Majestic Landscapes (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Arapaho National Recreation Area offers a network of hiking trails, inviting visitors to explore its breathtaking landscapes. The trails, winding through the area’s diverse terrain, provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The trails around Monarch Lake are particularly popular, offering a variety of options for those seeking a challenging or leisurely hike.
Barker Meadow Reservoir (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Barker Meadow Reservoir: A Mountain Oasis
Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the Front Range mountains, Barker Meadow Reservoir stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and the awe-inspiring power of nature. This manmade reservoir, completed in 1910, serves a dual purpose: providing recreational opportunities for visitors and supplying water to the city of Boulder. Its 0.7 square miles of surface area offer a picturesque backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.
A Legacy of Water and Power
The reservoir’s creation involved a complex negotiation with the land’s original owner, Mrs. Hannah Connell Barker. While she initially resisted selling her property, the city of Boulder ultimately acquired the land through a process similar to eminent domain. In 2010, the city of Boulder fully assumed ownership and management of the reservoir, ensuring its continued role in providing water and hydroelectric power to the community.
A Sanctuary for Outdoor Exploration (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Barker Meadow Reservoir invites visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the natural world. A network of hiking trails winds its way around the reservoir’s shoreline, offering breathtaking views of the pristine waters and the majestic Rocky Mountains that rise in the distance. While the reservoir’s waters provide a haven for anglers, it prohibits boating and watercraft of all kinds, creating a serene atmosphere.
Fishing Adventures at Barker Meadow Reservoir
Barker Meadow Reservoir is a popular destination for shoreline anglers seeking a rewarding fishing experience. The reservoir is meticulously stocked with a diverse array of fish, including brown trout, cutbow trout, rainbow trout, tiger muskie, and kokanee salmon. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore throughout the year, even when the lake is covered in ice, a rare occurrence in this region.
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While bait fishing is permitted, the use of live fish as bait is strictly prohibited. Anglers who are fortunate enough to catch a tiger muskie must adhere to a minimum size limit of 36 inches and are allowed to keep only one fish. The limit for kokanee salmon is set at 10 fish. From October 1st to December 1st, anglers can enjoy the unique opportunity to snag salmon, adding another dimension to their fishing adventures.
Hiking Along the Picturesque Shoreline (Colorado Fishing Spots)
The shoreline trail encircling Barker Meadow Reservoir invites visitors to embark on a scenic journey, immersing themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The trail meanders gracefully along the reservoir’s edge, offering breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and the majestic Rocky Mountains that provide a stunning backdrop. The trail is particularly enchanting in the warmer months of spring and summer, when wildflowers bloom in vibrant colors, transforming the trail into a kaleidoscope of beauty.
Bassam Guard Station (Colorado Fishing Spots)
A Gateway to Colorado Wilderness
Nestled just southeast of Buena Vista, the Bassam Guard Station, a charming 14′ x 16′ cabin, offers an authentic Colorado wilderness experience. Located at the intersection of Forest Roads 307 and 187, the station provides a comfortable base for exploring the vast backcountry of the Salida Ranger District. Open from May to November, the Bassam Guard Station welcomes guests for a maximum stay of 14 days.
A Glimpse into the Past
Built in 1911 as a residence for a forest ranger, the Bassam Guard Station embodies the spirit of early forestry efforts in Colorado. Forest guards of the past, often living in tents or basic cabins like this one, diligently protected the forest resources. Their responsibilities included regulating logging, preventing poaching, managing cattle, and monitoring weather conditions, fires, and roads.
Simple Amenities for a Wilderness Adventure (Colorado Fishing Spots)
The Bassam Guard Station provides basic amenities for a comfortable stay. The cabin accommodates two people inside on a full-size bed, with space for up to six additional guests in tents or small campers outside. A wood-burning stove provides warmth, and a metal fire pit ring and picnic table offer outdoor gathering spaces. While the station supplies a few basic dishes and cookware, guests are encouraged to bring their own food, toilet paper, lanterns, matches, blankets, and an axe for cutting firewood.
Accessing the Cabin: A Scenic Drive
Reaching the Bassam Guard Station requires a scenic drive through the San Isabel National Forest. From Buena Vista, turn right onto County Road 307, then right again on County Road 187. Turn left onto County Road 186 and travel 10 miles before turning left at (186 A), following this path to the cabin’s fenced entrance.
Exploring the Surrounding Area: Adventures Await
The Bassam Guard Station is a gateway to a variety of outdoor activities. The nearby Arkansas River offers kayaking, whitewater rafting, and fishing adventures. Numerous trails and roads suitable for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking wind through the San Isabel National Forest. For a glimpse into Colorado’s mining history, visitors can explore the historic ghost town of St. Elmo. Just a short drive away, the towns of Salida and Buena Vista offer a range of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
Big Thompson River (Colorado Fishing Spots)
The Big Thompson River: A Colorado Gem for Adventure and Recreation
The Big Thompson River, stretching for approximately 78 miles, originates in the Rocky Mountains within the Forest Canyon. This river, affectionately nicknamed “The Big T,” flows along Highway 34, passing through populated areas like Loveland, making it an easily accessible destination.
A Winding Path Through Majestic Landscapes
The Big Thompson River’s journey begins in the Forest Canyon, nestled within the Rocky Mountains. It flows westward toward Moraine Park inside Rocky Mountain National Park, continues past Estes Park, and follows the path of Highway 34 all the way to Loveland. Finally, it merges with the South Platte River south of Greeley, concluding its westward course.
A Paradise for Anglers (Colorado Fishing Spots)
The Big Thompson River is a premier destination for anglers, offering numerous opportunities to cast a line in its headwaters. Due to its high elevation, it’s best to plan a fishing trip to this river during the summer months.
Trout Fishing Delights
Downriver from Forest Canyon, anglers can find excellent conditions for catching rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout. Popular fishing spots include the area just south of Estes, Moraine Park, and numerous public access points along Highway 34.
Kayaking Adventures
The “Big Tommy” run, a 1.1-mile section of the river near Estes Park, attracts experienced kayakers during the summer. While the majority of the Big Thompson River features rough waters, this section offers a relatively navigable experience.
Whitewater Rafting (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Experienced rafters will enjoy the nearly 8-mile section of the Big Thompson in Larimer County. This section, featuring Class III-Class V rapids, presents a challenging and rewarding experience, suitable only for experienced rafters and kayakers.
Blue Mesa Reservoir (Colorado Fishing Spots)
A Colorado Gem
Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado, boasts a captivating blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Curecanti National Recreation Area, the reservoir stretches for an impressive 29 miles, creating a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The reservoir’s waters, a shimmering expanse of blue, reflect the surrounding pinyon-dotted, high-mountain desert, creating a picturesque scene that captivates travelers as they navigate US Hwy. 50 between Montrose and Gunnison.
A Paradise for Water Enthusiasts
Blue Mesa Reservoir is a haven for boaters, who can explore its expansive waters and venture into secluded canyons via its numerous arms. The reservoir’s vast size allows for a variety of water activities, from leisurely boat tours to exhilarating waterskiing. Anglers are drawn to the reservoir’s legendary fishing, with millions of fish stocked annually, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. The reservoir is also home to the largest kokanee salmon fishery in the United States, attracting anglers from far and wide.
A Blend of Outdoor Adventures (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Blue Mesa Reservoir offers a diverse array of activities, captivating visitors with its scenic beauty and thrilling adventures. Hikers can explore the surrounding trails, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area, while horseback riders can traverse the rugged terrain. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the reservoir boasts several lounge-worthy beaches, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Seeking Tranquility and Adventure
Despite its rocky shoreline, Blue Mesa Reservoir offers several designated swimming areas, including the Bay of Chickens, Dry Creek, and Old Highway 50 beach. These inviting spots provide a welcome respite from the sun’s warmth, offering a refreshing escape into the cool waters. With a plethora of activities vying for attention, from boating and fishing to hiking and horseback riding, visitors are sure to find a fulfilling experience that resonates with their adventurous spirit.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Brainard Lake Recreation Area: A Mountain Escape Near Boulder
The Brainard Lake Recreation Area, nestled in the front range Rockies north of Nederland in Ward, offers a stunning mountain escape just 45 minutes from the bustling streets of Boulder. This high-elevation area, situated within the Roosevelt National Forest, serves as the trailhead for the Indian Peaks Wilderness, attracting hikers, campers, and fishermen. The area’s elevation of 10,300 feet causes snow to melt late, making it an ideal destination for summer adventures, particularly in July and August.
A Haven for Recreation
The Brainard Lake Recreation Area offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. The area features a campground open only during the summer, with overnight backpacking opportunities within the Indian Peaks Wilderness on the lake’s north side. The nearby town of Ward provides a convenient source for supplies for campers.
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Visitors can enjoy non-motorized boating on the lake, with excellent brook trout fishing opportunities. Hiking and biking trails, including the popular CMC, Waldrop, South Saint Vrain, and Sourdough trails, as well as Left Hand Park Reservoir Road, offer a variety of experiences. Road cycling is a popular activity along the paved roads, including the five-mile stretch from CO-72 to Brainard Lake.
Camping Under the Stars (Colorado Fishing Spots)
The Pawnee Campground, open from late June to early September, provides 47 campsites with stunning views of Brainard Lake. These campsites, catering to tents, RVs, and campers, offer both reservable and non-reservable options. Even-numbered campsites can be reserved, while odd-numbered campsites and the eight walk-in campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Nestled on the east side of Brainard Lake at an elevation of 10,300 feet, the campground offers breathtaking alpine views. The high elevation results in a shorter season and chilly nights.
Dispersed Camping in the Wilderness
North of South St. Vrain Creek, dispersed camping is permitted within the Indian Peaks Wilderness, providing a more secluded experience for adventurers.
Fishing Delights
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the lake and nearby streams. The Brainard Lake Fishing Site offers excellent opportunities to catch brook trout. Red Rock Lake, located 1.5 miles east of Brainard Lake, is part of the same recreation area and provides additional fishing opportunities.
Hiking and Horseback Riding (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Five trails lead from the Brainard Lake Recreation Area into the high-elevation wilderness, offering a variety of hiking and horseback riding experiences.
The Mitchell Lake Trail
This 2.4-mile trail ascends above the treeline, reaching the alpine setting of Mitchell Lake. The lake sits nestled beneath a ring of barren high-elevation peaks.
The Beaver Creek Trail
This north-south trail connects the 1.7-mile Audubon Trail to the longer, 5.1-mile Coney Lakes Trail.
The Pawnee Pass Trail (Colorado Fishing Spots)
This popular trail skirts Long Lake before climbing quickly uphill to Lake Isabelle, located just over two miles from the trailhead. The Apache, Shoshone, and Navajo peaks provide a majestic backdrop for this breathtaking trail. The final section of the trail, ascending to an elevation of 12,541 feet at the apex of Pawnee Pass, rewards hikers with inspiring views of the entire valley.
The Niwot Cutoff
This trail, though far from the tiny northeast Colorado town of Niwot, bears the same name. It winds through thick woods, connecting to the Jean Lunning Trail.
The Jean Lunning Trail
This short, just under two-mile hike, follows the southern shoreline of Long Lake, crossing small creeks and wooden bridges. The trail is particularly captivating during the summer months when the alpine wildflowers are in full bloom.
Winter Adventures (Colorado Fishing Spots)
During the winter months, the Brainard Lake Recreation Area is free to visit. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular winter activities.
Access and Fees
A gate restricts vehicle access until trail conditions are dry enough to prevent damage, typically in mid-June. The gate remains open until mid-October. A fee booth is usually manned, but when it is not, a self-pay box is available for hikers and campers to pay their summer usage fees.
Reaching Brainard Lake
From Boulder, the quickest route to the Brainard Lake Recreation Area from Interstate 25 is to take Exit 217A west onto Highway 36, a toll road from Denver to Boulder. Continue west on Highway 36 as it transitions to 28th Street and then Lee Hill Drive.
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Lee Hill changes to Left Hand Canyon Road and then to Brainard Lake Road after passing through the town of Ward. Follow Brainard Lake Road until reaching the Brainard Lake Recreation Area fee station, where the road ends.
Buffalo Pass – Steamboat Springs (Colorado Fishing Spots)
A Wilderness Playground in Steamboat’s Backyard
Buffalo Pass, a captivating mountain pass located just minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs, offers a thrilling adventure through the Colorado wilderness. The 11-mile climb to the summit and the 32-mile journey to Highway 14 near Walden provide breathtaking views, challenging trails, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The pass, located in the Routt National Forest, is closed to motor vehicles from December 1st to June 30th, but opens to adventure seekers during the summer months.
A Challenging Drive for Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles (Colorado Fishing Spots)
While two-wheel-drive vehicles can navigate the lower elevations of Buffalo Pass, high clearance is recommended for the final miles to the summit. During winter, the road is closed to cars but remains open for snowmobiling.
Exploring Buffalo Pass: Activities and Attractions
Buffalo Pass offers a wide range of activities, from hiking and camping to mountain biking and fishing. The surrounding area, including nearby Fish Creek Falls and Rabbit Ears Pass, provides additional opportunities for exploration.
Biking Trails for All Abilities
Mountain bikers can connect to trails from Buffalo Pass, leading to Fish Creek Falls and Rabbit Ears Pass, offering a variety of routes and challenges.
Boating on High-Altitude Lakes
Fish Creek Reservoir, located 19 miles from downtown Steamboat Springs, allows non-motorized boating. However, reaching the reservoir requires a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle, making it accessible primarily to inflatable watercraft, rooftop kayaks, and boats that can fit in the bed of a truck.
Camping Under the Stars (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Buffalo Pass offers two campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities, all available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground opens seasonally in the summer, beginning on June 15th.
- Dry Lake Campground, located at the base of the pass closest to town, offers eight wooded campsites.
- Summit Lake Campground, situated at the summit, provides nine back-in campsites and six walk-in tent-only campsites.
Dispersed camping is allowed a quarter-mile past Dry Lake Campground. These campsites, located approximately 20 minutes from downtown, are marked with pull-offs for vehicles and existing fire rings. Additional campsites can be found along dirt roads branching off from Buffalo Pass. The road is rough, and most campsites are suitable only for tents, rooftop tents, and small, rugged campers. These campsites, which become busy on weekends, continue along the rocky pass.
Fishing for Trout in Mountain Lakes
Summit Lake, accessible from the top of Buffalo Pass, offers excellent fishing opportunities. Other lakes, such as Jonah Lake, require a hike from the summit.
Hiking and Exploring Trails (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Hiking trails can be found on both sides of Buffalo Pass.
Off-Highway Vehicle Adventures
Off-highway vehicles are permitted on the eastern section of Buffalo Pass.
Winter Recreation: Skiing and Snowmobiling
Backcountry skiing and snowmobiling are popular winter activities on Buffalo Pass. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers also use the lower trails.
Reaching Buffalo Pass: From Steamboat Springs and Walden
From Steamboat Springs
- Take Park Avenue in downtown Steamboat Springs towards Strawberry Park Road, leading to the Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
- After a few minutes, turn right onto County Road 38 and ascend Buffalo Pass.
- High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended to reach the summit and Walden.
From Walden (Colorado Fishing Spots)
- Drive west on CO-14 for 12.5 miles, following a southwest direction.
- Turn right onto County Road 24 and continue towards Buffalo Pass.
- The road transitions to County Road 43D/Forest Road 625, then Forest Road 60, and finally County Road R28, leading to the summit and descending into Steamboat Springs.
A Mountain Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Buffalo Pass offers a diverse range of outdoor adventures for those seeking a connection with nature in the heart of Colorado. From hiking and camping to fishing and off-roading, Buffalo Pass provides a memorable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cache La Poudre River (Colorado Fishing Spots)
Cache La Poudre River: A Colorado Treasure
The Cache La Poudre River, one of northern Colorado’s most cherished treasures, flows for 126 miles and holds the distinction of being Colorado’s only nationally designated “Wild & Scenic” river. Despite its relatively short course, this river is beloved by Coloradans for its exceptional recreational opportunities along its path.
A Journey Through Majestic Landscapes
The Cache La Poudre River’s journey begins in Rocky Mountain National Park, alongside the renowned Continental Divide. It flows westward, passing through locations such as Poudre Falls and the Gateway Natural Area, continuing through the Roosevelt National Forest to Fort Collins, Windsor, and ultimately merging with the South Platte River just outside of Greeley.
A Name Steeped in History (Colorado Fishing Spots)
The river’s name, of French origin, translates to “hide the powder” or “cache of powder.” This moniker originated in the 1820s when French trappers were forced to hide their gunpowder along the river during a blizzard.
A Scenic Byway
Colorado Highway 14, which follows much of the river’s left side, has been designated a “Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway” between Walden and Fort Collins. This road, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, attracts both visitors and locals seeking to enjoy the beauty of Colorado’s landscapes.
A Destination for Adventure
The proximity of the Cache La Poudre River to Fort Collins makes it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Water Activities (Colorado Fishing Spots)
This river provides a perfect escape for those seeking to cool off during the hot summer months. A variety of boating activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and whitewater rafting, can be enjoyed within Poudre Canyon.
Camping in the Wild
Both RV and tent campsites are available along the river, with most operating on a first-come, first-served basis. For those who prefer to plan in advance, four campgrounds along the river offer reservations: Narrows, Ansel Watrous, Stove Prairie, and Mountain Park.
Fishing Adventures
The Cache La Poudre River offers a haven for anglers, with numerous prime fishing spots located off the highway. The Poudre Canyon, as well as areas near Poudre Lake, are particularly renowned for fly fishing. Anglers can expect to catch brown trout, rainbow trout, cutbow trout, and cutthroat trout.
Multi-Use Trails (Colorado Fishing Spots)
The Cache La Poudre River provides a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Numerous trails are available for hiking and biking in the summer, while snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are popular during the winter. Anglers seeking a combination of camping and fishing can choose from many campgrounds located off Highway 14.
A River for All
Whether you seek an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure, a peaceful fishing spot, or a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, the Cache La Poudre River offers a diverse range of experiences.
Program iz This was beautiful Admin. Thank you for your reflections.