Dillon Reservoir
Dillon Reservoir: A Mountain Paradise
Dillon Reservoir: A Mountain Oasis
Discover the beauty and adventure of Dillon Reservoir: boating, fishing, hiking, and stunning mountain views await in Summit County, Colorado.
Dillon Reservoir, often called Lake Dillon, is a stunning freshwater lake nestled in the heart of Summit County, Colorado. Surrounded by the towns of Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne, this scenic reservoir offers a variety of recreational activities against a backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Dillon Reservoir
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Colorado, US
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Getting There
Driving
From Denver, take I-70 West through the Eisenhower Tunnel. For Dillon Marina, take Silverthorne Exit 205 to Highway 6, then follow signs to the marina. For Frisco Bay Marina, take Frisco Exit 203 to Highway 9, turn left onto Main Street, and follow it to the marina. Parking at Frisco Bay Marina costs $1.25/half hour for the first 3 hours, then $2.50/half hour, with a $15 daily maximum on weekends and holidays. Weekday parking is $1.25 per half hour with a $12 maximum. Overnight parking in Dillon is available in designated lots for $10-$20, depending on the day. Check ParkDillon.com for specific lot rules.
Public Transport
The Bustang bus service offers a cost-effective option from Denver's Union Station to Dillon. From the Dillon bus stop, local Summit Stage buses provide connections to various points around the reservoir. A one-way fare on Summit Stage is free. Consider the Summit Shuttle water taxi for travel between Dillon and Frisco marinas; one-way fares are $25 for adults and $15 for children.
Local tips
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Check the water level before boating, as the Dillon Marina ramp becomes unusable for most motorized boats when the water elevation drops below 8,971 feet, and the Frisco Bay Marina ramp at 9,009 feet.
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Consider taking the Summit Shuttle water taxi between Frisco and Dillon for affordable transportation and scenic views.
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Be prepared for aquatic nuisance species (ANS) inspections before launching any vessel, and ensure your boat is clean, drained, and dry to save time.
Discover more about Dillon Reservoir
Dillon Reservoir, also known as Lake Dillon, is more than just a picturesque body of water; it's a vital part of Colorado's history and recreation. Created by the damming of the Blue River in the early 1960s, the reservoir serves as Denver's largest water storage facility, supplying water to the Front Range via the Harold D. Roberts Tunnel. The construction of the dam necessitated the relocation of the entire town of Dillon, a testament to the growing need for water resources in the state.
Today, Dillon Reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, visitors can enjoy boating, sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The Dillon and Frisco marinas offer boat rentals, tours, and other services. Anglers can try their luck at catching brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and arctic char. Hiking and biking trails wind along the shoreline, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
In the winter, Dillon Reservoir transforms into a snowy playground. Ice fishing is a popular activity, and the town of Dillon creates groomed winter multi-use tracks on the frozen reservoir. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular ways to explore the area.
Whether you're seeking adventure on the water, a scenic hike, or a peaceful escape in the mountains, Dillon Reservoir offers something for everyone. Its rich history, stunning scenery, and abundance of recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination in Summit County.
A brief summary to Dillon Reservoir
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