Dillon Reservoir: A Mountain Gem

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.