Allen Basin Reservoir is a hidden gem in the remote backcountry of Rio Blanco County, a small mountain lake that has drawn loyal anglers back for over forty years. Tucked away in the White River National Forest area of northwest Colorado, this reservoir sits at high elevation surrounded by untouched alpine scenery and dense forest. If you are looking for a fishing destination that feels like a well-kept secret, Allen Basin delivers.
Fishing is the primary activity at Allen Basin Reservoir, and veterans of this spot will tell you it has produced consistent catches across decades. Trout are the main target species, and the lake has historically been productive for anglers who know how to read the water. That said, conditions vary from trip to trip, and even experienced regulars have had fishless days here. The appeal is not just the catch rate but the setting: a quiet mountain lake where you can cast a line without another angler in sight.
Reaching Allen Basin requires a hike, which adds to both the effort and the reward. The trail to the reservoir passes through beautiful high-country terrain, and the walk itself is part of what makes the destination special. The approach is not technical, but you should be prepared for uneven ground and changing mountain weather. Bring layers and rain gear even on clear summer mornings.
The reservoir sees very little traffic compared to more accessible fishing spots along the I-70 corridor or in the Flat Tops. Visitors consistently describe Allen Basin as a place that nobody knows about, and that relative obscurity is exactly what keeps it special. There are no formal amenities, no boat ramps, no restrooms, and no maintained campgrounds at the lake itself.
Allen Basin Reservoir is best visited from mid-June through September, when snow has cleared from the access roads and trails. The surrounding landscape is rich with wildflowers in summer and turns golden with aspen in September. Wildlife sightings are common in the area, including elk, mule deer, and various raptor species.
For anglers and hikers willing to make the effort to reach a truly remote Colorado mountain lake, Allen Basin Reservoir offers the kind of experience that keeps people coming back for generations. The lack of crowds, the quality of the scenery, and the honest fishing make it one of Rio Blanco County's best-kept outdoor destinations.