Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir

Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir sits quietly between Breckenridge and Copper Mountain in Summit County, offering a striking alpine setting that catches many travelers off guard. Nestled along the road connecting Buena Vista to the ski towns, this high-elevation reservoir rewards visitors with panoramic mountain views, half-frozen water in spring, and snow-capped peaks framing every angle. The 2.4-mile loop trail circling the reservoir makes it an easy, family-friendly stop that delivers far more beauty than its modest size suggests.

Hiking around Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir is the most popular activity, and the trail offers two distinct experiences depending on which direction you walk. One side passes through a shaded forest with occasional fallen trees to step over, while the opposite side opens into shrub-covered meadows bursting with wildflowers from June through summer. The trail is generally easy, though one section features dirt, mud, and rocky stretches where small streams cross the path from higher elevations, so hiking boots are recommended over sneakers. Families with young children regularly complete the loop without difficulty, and the trail sees far fewer crowds than nearby Mayflower Gulch.

Fishing at Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir centers on cutthroat trout, with anglers reporting catches right from the shoreline. The reservoir holds a population of wild cutthroat, though visitors note that numbers have declined over the years due to a lack of catch-and-kill restrictions. Experienced anglers recommend using single barbless hooks and practicing catch and release to help preserve the fishery. Ice fishing is also available during winter months when the reservoir freezes over completely.

Stand-up paddleboarding on Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir provides a peaceful experience on a compact body of water. The launch requires only a short 500-foot walk from the parking lot down a gradual slope to the shoreline. Paddlers describe calm, smooth water conditions, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly at this elevation, so morning sessions are safer. The surface area is limited compared to larger reservoirs, making it ideal for a relaxed paddle rather than a distance workout.

Winter transforms Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir into a snow-covered landscape where the frozen lake and surrounding peaks create postcard-worthy scenery. Backcountry skiing and snowboarding are possible in the surrounding terrain, though visitors should respect private mining property boundaries to the southeast. The reservoir sits roughly ten to fifteen minutes from Interstate 70 near Copper Mountain, making it a convenient stop for travelers heading between Denver and Aspen. Dogs are welcome on the trail, and the area provides a cool retreat from Front Range summer heat, with temperatures cold enough to require sweaters even in July.