Waterton Canyon is a well known hike and bike trail at the southwestern tip of Chatfield Reservoir.  Aside from the canyon itself being a beautiful spot to spend some time, this is also the beginning of the Colorado Trail so theoretically you can start in Waterton Canyon and hike for 560+ miles to Durango. If you are not planning on doing that…there are plenty of options for a nice day hike through Waterton Canyon.

The hike consists of a relatively flat and even dirt road that extends for about 7 miles to the Strontia Reservoir and ends at an impressive (although man-made) waterfall. I have hiked the canyon often, but I’ve never made it to the reservoir, it's a 14 mile round trip hike. Along the canyon, there are various picnic areas which make great spots to relax and turn around. The Mountain Lion Rest Area is 3 miles into the canyon and the perfect place to turn back. While you hike you can take in the canyon scenery, enjoy some time relaxing (or fishing) in the river, and do some Bighorn Sheep spotting (they are common in the canyon).

This is not the place for solitude as the canyon is a hot spot for recreation year round. Still, its a great place to hike or bike. If you are capable of making it to the reservoir, you can also pick up some other trails. I hope to bike the canyon and hike up to Lenny’s Rest at some point, it’s been on my to-do list for a long time.