Ruedi Reservoir is a 1,000-acre mountain lake in Pitkin County that serves as the recreational anchor of the Fryingpan River valley, about 15 miles upstream from the town of Basalt near Aspen. Surrounded by the White River National Forest, this reservoir combines reliable fishing, full-service camping, and motorized boating access in one of the most scenic valleys on Colorado's Western Slope. Whether you are towing a boat for a weekend on the water or paddling a kayak on a quiet weekday morning, Ruedi offers a genuine mountain lake experience without the overcrowding that plagues Front Range reservoirs.
Fishing at Ruedi Reservoir produces a variety of species throughout the year. Lake trout (mackinaw) are the signature catch, with fish reaching trophy sizes in the deeper sections of the reservoir. Rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, and yellow perch round out the fishery. The reservoir fishes well from both boats and the shoreline, and ice fishing draws a dedicated following during winter months. Below the dam, the Fryingpan River is designated Gold Medal Water by the Colorado Wildlife Commission, supporting large populations of rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout. Special regulations on the Fryingpan require artificial flies and lures only, with catch-and-release rules for all trout except brown trout over 14 inches.
The White River National Forest manages five campgrounds around Ruedi: Dearhamer, Little Mattie, Little Maud, Molli B, and Ruedi Marina. Together these campgrounds offer 81 campsites, with options ranging from tent-only sites to spots large enough for RVs and trailers. All campgrounds provide vault toilets and potable water. Two concrete boat ramps provide reliable lake access for motorized boats, and the marina area serves as a launch point for everything from fishing boats to pontoons. Kayakers and paddleboarders enjoy the reservoir's calm water, particularly in early morning before afternoon winds pick up.
The drive up the Fryingpan Road from Basalt to Ruedi is scenic year-round, passing through narrow canyon sections and opening into broad mountain meadows as you approach the reservoir. The towns of Basalt and Carbondale provide full services including restaurants, gas, and grocery stores. Hidden waterfalls, 4WD side roads, and hiking trails branch off throughout the valley, extending any Ruedi visit into a multi-day adventure. The area surrounding the reservoir supports healthy populations of elk, deer, and bald eagles, and the mix of forest and open water creates excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the seasons.