Stanley Reservoir in El Paso County sits at the end of a scenic hiking route through the foothills west of Colorado Springs, though visitors should know up front that the reservoir itself is dry. The dam was removed and there are no plans to restore the water body, making this primarily a hiking destination rather than a water recreation site. Despite the empty reservoir bed, the trail leading to Stanley Reservoir remains one of the more rewarding hikes in the area, drawing visitors who appreciate solitude and mountain scenery without the crowds found at more popular Front Range trailheads.
The most common access route passes through the United States Air Force Academy, which requires checking access protocols before arrival. An alternative and generally easier approach comes from the Farish Recreation Area side. Both routes offer distinct experiences. The USAFA approach is considered the more challenging hike, while the Farish route provides a gentler grade. Along either path, hikers pass through open meadows filled with wildflowers during summer months, stands of ponderosa pine, and rocky outcrops that frame views of the Rampart Range.
The real payoff comes at a viewpoint overlooking Colorado Springs and the eastern plains. On clear days, the panorama stretches from Pikes Peak to the south across the sprawling cityscape below, with the prairie extending to the horizon. Many hikers treat this viewpoint as their turnaround point rather than continuing to the dry reservoir bed, and that approach avoids the anticlimactic finish at the empty basin.
Wildflowers peak in late June and July, blanketing the meadows along the trail with color. Wildlife sightings are common along the route, including deer, wild turkeys, and various raptor species riding thermals above the ridgeline. The secluded feel of the trail means you can often hike the entire route without encountering another person.
There are no facilities, water sources, or amenities at the reservoir site. Carry all water and supplies, wear sturdy footwear for the rocky sections, and allow extra time if accessing through the Air Force Academy, as entry procedures can add delays. The trail is best suited for spring through fall hiking; winter access may be limited by snow at higher elevations.