Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir – An Easy Scenic Hike
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Tucked high in the Rockies between Copper Mountain and Leadville, the Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir hike is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets—and it’s hiding in plain sight right off Highway 91.
This 2.4-mile loop trail delivers big alpine scenery with minimal effort, making it the perfect stop for road trippers, casual hikers, and anyone craving postcard-worthy mountain views without the lung-busting elevation gain.
Whether you’re wildflower-hunting in summer or snowshoeing through winter wonderland vibes, this trail is a year-round beauty that deserves a spot on your Colorado hiking bucket list.
Stats
See this hike on AllTrails
Distance: 2.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 230 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Features: lake, mountain views, wildflowers
Facilities: none
Phone Service: none
Hiking Clinton Gulch Dam Reservior
This hike around Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir is pretty simple: pick a direction and start hiking. The trail follows the lake’s shoreline in a loop.
With only 230 feet of elevation gain spread across 2.4 miles, this hike is easy (especially compared to most mountain hikes).
The trail is quite thin, though, so don’t plan on walking next to someone. Single file is basically required.
Just follow the trail all the way around the lake, returning to your car after your outdoor adventure.
The northern side of the loop is more exposed and the brush is mainly willows, while the southern side of the loop isforested and offers many wildflowers, mushrooms, and mini streams flowing into the lake.
On the far end of the lake (east), you’ll encounter a wide open meadow and an easy stream crossing – this is where some of the best views of the hike are.
History
Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir is named after the nearby 13,864-foot Clinton Peak, which serves as the headwaters for Clinton Creek.
In 1977, the dam was constructed by the Climax Molybdenum Company with the intention of assisting in mining operations. The reservoir was sold in 1992 to the Clinton Ditch & Reservoir Company, whose stakeholders include a few Summit County towns and ski resorts.
A portion of the water is now used to create man-made snow on some ski slopes each winter.
Getting There
Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir is one of the most easily accessible stops on the beautiful Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, which is a 115-mile driving route in central Colorado.
From highway I-70, take exit 195 towards Copper Mountain, then continue south on State Highway 91 (a.k.a. Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway). Continue for about 7 miles, and you’ll arrive at Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir.
There’s parking on either side of the dam, so don’t worry if you miss the first parking lot – there’s a second one soon after. Park in either area.
Because this hike is a loop, it doesn’t matter where you start or which direction you begin.
Fishing at the Reservoir
During our hike, we saw several fishermen posted up along the shoreline with lines in the water. Fishing is permitted here with a Colorado state fishing license (required for ages 16+) and ice fishing is permitted in the wintertime. The lake is stocked with cutthroat trout, and there’s a wild population of Rainbow and Brown trout.
The Verdict
With all that being said, don’t let it’s simplicity fool you; the views are beautiful and the lake sparkles in the sunlight of a warm summer day. We would highly recommend this hike for anyone looking for an easier adventure or for families. Because of it’s elevation right around 11,000 feet, it’s also a great option for those looking to get outside while also acclimating to the altitude.
Nearby Hikes
Here are some nearby hikes that are also worth the visit:
Also, check out the best hiking near Breckenridge, the best wildflower hikes near Breckenridge, and the best waterfall hikes near Breckenridge.
FAQ
Where is Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir?
Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir is situated between Copper Mountain and Leadville, along the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway (a.k.a. State Highway 91). It’s easily accessible from two parking areas on either side of the dam, and is surrounded by a 2.4 mile easy hiking trail.
What is the altitude of Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir?
The reservoir sits at just above 11,000 feet, right around 11,050. The trail around the lake ranges from 11,076 to 11,161 feet in elevation.
Can you fish at Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir?
Yes! With a valid Colorado state fishing license (for ages 16+), you can fish in the reservoir year-round for Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Brown Trout.
