John Martin Reservoir is a deceivingly interesting park for hiking.  From the road the park does not look like much, just another reservoir amongst the flat lands.  But once you get up close to the lake shore, you will be stunned by the interesting shale rock layers that are exposed and the interesting rock formations carved by water and wind.  The wetlands mixed with rock formations are a lot of fun to walk amongst.

There is one hiking trail in the park which sticks mostly to the plains on the northern side of the reservoir.  However, making your own way along the lake shore is the better hiking option.  

You can also explore a small portion of the Santa Fe National Historic Trail which runs through the park.  You can walk along the old trail and see some historical markers and structures giving you a small glimpse back in time.

The cultural and natural resources of John Martin Reservoir make this state park an oasis in the wide expanse of Colorado's Eastern Plains.