Lower Reservoir is a small, scenic water body in El Paso County, Colorado, accessible via a short hike of about a mile along a gated access road. Located within the foothills south of the Colorado Springs metropolitan area, this reservoir offers a quick nature escape for hikers and walkers looking for a quiet outing without a major time commitment. An upper reservoir sits farther up the hill, and several visitors recommend continuing past the lower lake for a more rewarding experience at the larger body of water.
The primary draw at Lower Reservoir is hiking. The access road serves as the main trail, providing a straightforward walk suitable for most fitness levels during fair weather. Winter conditions change the equation considerably. Visitors report snowpacked and icy trails during colder months, with sunny sections melting during the day and refreezing overnight to create slick, hazardous patches. Sturdy hiking boots with good traction are a must from late fall through early spring, and microspikes or traction devices are worth carrying.
The surrounding landscape is typical of the Colorado Front Range foothills, with a mix of scrub oak, ponderosa pine, and open grassland. The reservoir itself is modest in size but sits in a pleasant natural setting that feels removed from the nearby suburban development. Birdwatchers may find the area productive, as the water and surrounding vegetation attract a variety of species year-round.
There are no developed facilities at Lower Reservoir. No restrooms, no picnic tables, and no formal boat launch exist at the site. The gated road means no vehicle access beyond the parking area, keeping the immediate surroundings quiet and foot-traffic only. This is a walk-in destination, and visitors should bring anything they need for the duration of their visit.
Lower Reservoir works best as a quick morning or afternoon hike rather than a full-day destination. The short distance makes it accessible for families and casual walkers, while the winter trail conditions provide a more challenging workout for those willing to navigate the ice. For a longer outing, plan to hike to both the lower and upper reservoirs in a single trip. The area is close enough to Colorado Springs that it fits easily into a weekday evening or weekend morning routine for local residents.