An Amazing Scenic Hike in Dillon, Colorado
Many visitors to Summit County Colorado admire and enjoy the spectactular views and recreation that surrounds Lake Dillon (techinicallly Dillon Reservoir). Few are aware that the original reservoir, now aptly named Old Dillon Reservoir, still exists and is easily accessible by means of a spectaular hiking trail for hiking in the Colorado mountains. Access to the Trailhead of this 1.6 mile (round trip) trail is by means of Dillon Dam Road. It is open to hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. The White River National Forest/Dillon Ranger District labels this hike as an "Easy to Moderate Hike", but with an elevation gain of only 127 feet, it seems to be more towards the easy difficulty level - however, please note that the hike begins at 9,066 feet in elevation. Moreover, this hike yields some of the best vistas for the effort required compared to other hikes in the area. Once a hiker reaches the current top they will be in awe of the gorgeous views of Lake Dillon, the Ten Mile Range, Buffalo Mountain/the Gore Range, Mount Guyot, Bald Mountain (Baldy Mountain), Keystone Ski Resort, the Continental Divide, and more - let's just say 360 degree views of Summit County Colorado!
According to the Dillon Ranger District, the Old Dillon Reservoir was created to hold and supply water to the original town of Dillon Colorado in the 1930s which is now submerged in Lake Dillon. An interesting aspect of this small reservoir is that it is supplied by a diversion from Salt Lick Gulch which flows down Buffalo Mountain, under I-70 and up the hill to Old Dillon Reservoir. This creates a "reverse siphon" - a sign with diagrams of this, wildflowers on the trail, and more history is worth taking in at the beginning of the hike. Currently the Old Dillon Reservoir is under construction (this does not affect current surrounding views, just views of the Lake itself) to increase the capacity for future water usage needs. Construction is scheduled for completion in 2012.
Krystal and I enjoyed this short but rewarding hike last weekend. We thoroughly enjoyed the hike through the wilderness. There were many aspens already showing their beautiful fall colors, different types of blue and red colored berries and spectacular views of Lake Dillon. We definately recommend this hike to families and anyone looking for a short but enjoyable outing.
For an incredible short hike that yields awe-inspiring views, visit Old Dillon Reservoir in Dillon Colorado during your next trip to Summit County Colorado. Interested in owning or selling a piece of Summit County Real Estate? Contact Justin Knott and Krystal Knott of Ten Peaks Sotheby's International Realty for all of your Summit County Real Estate needs.
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