Montgomery Reservoir: A High-Altitude Alpine Escape

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Discover the beauty of Montgomery Reservoir in the Colorado Rockies: fishing, hiking, and stunning alpine views await!

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Montgomery Reservoir

Nestled in Colorado's Mosquito Range near Hoosier Pass, Montgomery Reservoir is a scenic alpine lake offering outdoor activities and stunning views. Created in 1957, it supplies water to Colorado Springs and provides a serene escape for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the surrounding mountain scenery.

A brief summary to Montgomery Reservoir

Colorado, US

Local tips

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake while soaking in the beautiful scenery.
Don't forget your fishing gear; the lake is known for its abundant fish.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.

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Getting There

Driving

From Breckenridge, drive south on CO-9 towards Hoosier Pass. After summiting Hoosier Pass, continue south for approximately 1 mile and turn right (west) onto County Road 4. Follow CR 4 downhill towards Montgomery Reservoir. The reservoir is approximately 1.4 miles from CO-9. Parking is available near the reservoir. Note that CR 4 is a dirt road and may be challenging for low-clearance vehicles. There are no fees for parking or access.
Public Transport

From Breckenridge, take the Breckenridge Free Ride shuttle to Breckenridge Station. Transfer to the Summit Stage bus towards Fairplay. Get off at the Montgomery Reservoir stop. The reservoir is a short walk from the bus stop. A single ride on the Summit Stage bus costs $4.

Discover more about Montgomery Reservoir

Montgomery Reservoir, situated at an elevation of 10,873 feet (3,314 meters) in Park County, Colorado, is a picturesque destination surrounded by the towering peaks of the Mosquito Range. Located a few miles north of Alma and near Hoosier Pass, this man-made reservoir was completed in 1957 by the city of Colorado Springs. The reservoir was created by the construction of the Montgomery Dam, which is 1,900 feet long and 113 feet high. The reservoir serves as a crucial water source for Colorado Springs, receiving water from the Middle Fork of the South Platte River and the Hoosier Tunnel, which diverts water from the Blue River on the western side of the Continental Divide. The town of Montgomery, founded in 1861 during the area's mining boom, was flooded to create the reservoir. Today, the reservoir offers various recreational activities, including fishing and hiking. Anglers can enjoy fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout. Hiking trails around the reservoir provide opportunities to explore the alpine scenery and see the historic Magnolia Mill. Visitors can take a short hike from the parking area to reach the reservoir's shores and walk along the 4x4 road on the north side of the lake. The Wheeler Lake Trail on the opposite side of the reservoir offers views of the Magnolia Mill and waterfalls. While swimming and boating are prohibited, the reservoir's serene environment and stunning mountain views make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the Colorado Rockies.