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Dillon Reservoir: A Mountain Gem

Explore the scenic Dillon Reservoir in Summit County, Colorado, offering year-round recreation and stunning mountain views.

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Dillon Reservoir, nestled in the heart of Summit County, Colorado, is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains. This scenic reservoir offers a wide array of recreational activities, from boating and fishing to hiking and biking, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Dillon Reservoir

  • Colorado, US

Local tips

  • Check the water levels at Dillon and Frisco Bay Marinas before boating, as the ramps may be unusable for motorized craft at certain elevations.
  • In winter, explore the 'Lake Loops' for a unique multi-use track experience on the frozen reservoir.
  • Visit the Dillon Farmers Market for local produce, artisan goods, and crafts with scenic views of the reservoir.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-70, take either the Silverthorne (Exit 205) or Frisco (Exit 203) exits. Follow the signs towards Dillon or Frisco, depending on which side of the reservoir you wish to visit. Parking is available at the Dillon Marina, Dillon Amphitheater, and along Lodgepole Street. Be aware that parking fees may apply in certain areas or during special events. Free parking with a three-hour maximum is available in the town core from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.. Check ParkDillon.com for the most up-to-date parking information.

  • Public Transport

    The Bustang bus service offers a cost-effective travel option to Dillon from Denver's Union Station. From various locations within Summit County, the Summit Stage bus provides free transportation to different points around Dillon Reservoir. Check the Summit Stage website for schedules and routes. From the Dillon Marina or Frisco Bay Marina, the Summit Shuttle Water Taxi provides transportation across the reservoir. A one-way trip for adults is $25 and $15 for children (0-12). Reservations are recommended.

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Discover more about Dillon Reservoir

Dillon Reservoir, often called Lake Dillon, is a captivating body of water set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Summit County, Colorado. Bordered by the towns of Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne, this reservoir serves as a vital water source for the city of Denver. Completed in 1963, the creation of Dillon Reservoir involved relocating the original town of Dillon, a testament to the growing need for water resources on the east side of the Continental Divide. The reservoir's history began in the early 1900s when Denver started acquiring land in Summit County to secure water supplies. By the 1950s, the Denver Water Board had obtained the necessary water rights, leading to the displacement of the original town of Dillon. The construction of the Dillon Dam, an earth-fill structure stretching 5,888 feet long and rising 231 feet above the Blue River stream bed, was completed in 1963. The Harold D. Roberts Tunnel, a 23.3-mile conduit, was also built to divert water from the Blue River Basin under the Continental Divide to the South Platte River Basin. Today, Dillon Reservoir is a popular recreational area, offering a plethora of activities. Boating, sailing, and motorboating are common pastimes, with the Dillon and Frisco Bay Marinas providing access and rentals. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy both lake and stream fishing, with the Blue River below the dam designated as Gold Medal waters. Hiking and biking trails wind around the reservoir, providing stunning views of the surrounding Gore, Williams Fork, and Ten Mile mountain ranges. In winter, the reservoir transforms into a wonderland for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The Town of Dillon also presents "Lake Loops", a winter multi-use track located on the Dillon Reservoir. The reservoir has a capacity of 257,304 acre feet and a surface area of 3,233 acres, with 26.8 miles of shoreline. Visitors can explore the area's history at the Dillon Schoolhouse, a preserved building from the old town of Dillon. Dillon Reservoir is a true gem of the Rocky Mountains, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance.

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