Johnson Reservoir sits at the heart of Clement Park in Jefferson County, offering a surprisingly peaceful escape tucked into the suburban landscape of Littleton and Lakewood. If you live along the Front Range and want a quick outdoor outing without driving into the mountains, this 1.4-mile paved loop around the reservoir delivers a relaxing walk, solid fishing opportunities, and wide-open views of the Rockies that remind you why you moved to Colorado.
The paved trail circling Johnson Reservoir is smooth, wide, and accessible, making it a favorite for walkers, joggers, and families with strollers. Most of the path maintains gentle grades of five percent or less, so the loop works well for all fitness levels and mobility needs. Dogs are welcome on leash, and you will often spot fellow walkers with their four-legged companions enjoying the route. Benches and picnic tables are spaced along the trail for resting or simply soaking in the mountain views to the west. The full loop takes most visitors between thirty minutes and an hour depending on pace.
Fishing at Johnson Reservoir can be rewarding for patient anglers. The lake holds a diverse mix of warm-water species including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, carp, perch, pumpkinseed, and bullhead. There are persistent reports of tiger muskie lurking in the deeper water as well. A valid Colorado fishing license is required. Shoreline access is easy from multiple points around the trail, making it a convenient spot for bank fishing without hauling gear over rough terrain.
Clement Park itself surrounds the reservoir with a full complement of recreational facilities. Playgrounds, athletic fields, a skate park, and open green spaces make the area a destination for families spending an entire afternoon outdoors. The park hosts community events throughout the year and provides ample parking off West Bowles Avenue near Wadsworth Boulevard. Prairie dogs have established colonies in the surrounding grasslands, adding a touch of wildlife viewing to any visit.
Whether you are training for a race, teaching a kid to cast a line, or just need a midweek walk with a good view, Johnson Reservoir at Clement Park is one of the most accessible and enjoyable lake loops in Jefferson County.