Directions:

From I-70, take the Dillon exit, and head east on Hwy 6. Turn right on Dillon Dam Road and drive over the dam to the north shore of the reservoir. Drive for about 1 mile past the reservoir and the Old Dillon Reservoir Trailhead is on the right.

Hike Description:

Old Dillon Reservoir is a quick and easy hike along the north shore of the “new” Dillon Reservoir. The hike starts from the shore and climbs gently to a ridge above the reservoir. The trail then drops down to the reservoir and loops around the shore. There are other trail that intersect here, but the main hike returns to the trailhead along the same trail. While this hike is a simple and easy walk, in the fall, it becomes a spectacular attraction.

The trail leading up to the reservoir crosses through multiple aspen groves. As the trail ascends to the top of the ridge, the views to the south over Dillon Reservoir open up. This is an amazing view any time of year, but in the fall it is especially brilliant. From the ridge you can see the Old Dillon Reservoir on the left and the New Dillon Reservoir to the south. Across the reservoir, to the north you get amazing views of the Gore Range and the Front Range Mountains with fields of yellow and orange aspen groves. For just about 360 degrees, the views yield amazing fall colors.

The hike to Old Dillon Reservoir is very popular, especially in the fall. However, the hike is certainly worth the effort and the crowds. Visit mid-week early in the morning or at sunset for the best color and best chance to experience some solitude.