What activities are available at Seaman Reservoir?

Seaman Reservoir offers Fishing, Fly Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Canoeing, Bird Watching, Walking.

What amenities does Seaman Reservoir have?

Seaman Reservoir has Parking, Unpaved Trail, Vault Toilets.

Where is Seaman Reservoir located?

Seaman Reservoir is located in Larimer County, Colorado.

Is a permit required at Seaman Reservoir?

Permit information is not currently available. Check with the managing agency for current requirements.

Seaman Reservoir

reservoir

Larimer County, Colorado

4.6(31 reviews)

About Seaman Reservoir

Seaman Reservoir is a hidden gem tucked into the foothills northwest of Fort Collins, roughly 15 miles from the city along the North Fork of the Cache la Poudre River. If you enjoy short hikes that reward you with jaw-dropping scenery and a sense of solitude that feels worlds away from suburban life, this reservoir deserves a spot on your list.

Sitting at approximately 5,480 feet of elevation in Larimer County, Seaman Reservoir is managed by the City of Fort Collins as part of the Gateway Natural Area. A roughly one-mile gravel trail leads from the parking area up to the reservoir, with the final stretch gaining elevation steeply enough to get your heart pumping. Once you crest the concrete dam wall, the panoramic views of still water framed by red-rock canyon walls and pine-dotted ridgelines make every step worth it.

Fishing at Seaman Reservoir draws anglers seeking brown trout, rainbow trout, and yellow perch. Colorado Parks and Wildlife enforces artificial flies and lures only regulations on the North Fork downstream from the reservoir, so check current CPW rules before you cast. Shore fishing is the primary option, though a handful of dedicated visitors have hauled kayaks and canoes up the trail for a quieter on-water experience. Bald eagles, blue herons, and Canada geese are regular sightings along the shoreline.

Important rules apply here: swimming and wading are prohibited, and dogs are not permitted unless you are actively hunting during a legal season. These restrictions are posted prominently at the trailhead. A day-use fee is collected at the entrance, so bring cash. Weekend parking fills quickly, especially during summer and fall foliage season, so arriving early is strongly recommended.

The trail system around the reservoir ranges from easy to moderately difficult, with narrow sections and steep drop-offs on the perimeter loop. Rattlesnakes are present in warmer months, and visitors should stay alert on the trail. Cliff jumping, while popular among some visitors, is not sanctioned and carries real safety risks.

Seaman Reservoir is one of the closest escapes from Fort Collins for hikers, anglers, and nature lovers who want dramatic canyon scenery without a long drive. Fall is particularly stunning when cottonwoods along the canyon turn gold and orange.

Reviews (10)

Kyle Pfeiffer

A casual walk up to the reservoir then the trail gets narrow and a bit treacherous going around. The trail leading up to the reservoir was fine but a smell takes over the closer you get. Be aware of snakes and bears!

The Hamiltons

So many cliff divers... ruined our fishing trip. Clearly people that can't read the giant sign at the trail head, that clearly states 'hunting/fishing acess only, NO DOGS (unless actively hunting), and NO SWIMMING'! I asked the ranger on this and he said any time sometime does happen, it usually includes a trespassing ticket... well if that's the case maybe CPW should actually try enforcing some rules around Seaman Reservoir. It could be a much nicer place!

JmeBritt Lauck

One of the best small hikes EVER. It's a very easy trail and last bit about kills you with a close to 70 degree incline. Soon as you look past the concrete wall you know it was all worth it❤️

Rachel Kempf

Really fun hiking trail back by the reservoir!

Chris J

Awesome trail heading up the hill/mountain side. Beautiful views

The Kansas City Foodie

This was slightly hidden off the beaten path with google maps. After a little hike, there are some gorgeous views!

megan byers

Visiting this place is a summer tradition - the hike up to the cliff jumping rocks can be sweltering, the heat is no joke.

John Savage

It is a difficult hike around the reservoir.

C O

I loved this spot. I do wish there was better access to the reservoir for kayaking and canoes. When I pulled up to the parking area (first time) The Ranger said he sees people pulling their kayaks up there all the time. Mile or so on gravel road. Last part is steep and Rocky. It was brutal getting my 11’ kayak up there by my self. But once I was to the reservoir it was amazing. No other kayak/canoes on the lake because I think no one else is crazy enough to drag one up there. If I go back with the kayak I’ll have a cart system in place. Oh and jumping off the cliff was a lot of fun. 👌

PAUL CHANEY

My son and I carried the canoe the mile uphill from the parking to the lake. We paddled the whole extent of the lake. It was a breezy day threatening a thunderstorm. He cast in a line while I paddled slowly, stopping to look at blue herons on the east side, and wild geese grazing on the grassy sandbar at the upper end of the lake. Bald eagles were about 6 in number. One showed us there were fish in the lake by snatching one out of the water about 50 yards away. He flew to a shore-side snag and consumed it there. It's close to the city, but far away enough to be wild.