Rampart Reservoir (section) ~7 mi
Details
We're going to be heading up above Woodland Park to this fabulous trail that rings Rampart Reservoir. We won't be doing the whole trail, but rather make an out and back of about 7 miles to hit some highlights.
There are some wonderful views of the reservoir as we walk the contours of the lake. This is mostly shaded. Nothing difficult on this route, some ups and downs on the rolling terrain. We will stop to take in the views along the way.
Once we reach 3 to 3.5 miles, we can have a snack and watch the water activities. Then we can head back to the lot and go into town for an optional lunch 😊.
If you own kayaks or SUPs, feel free to bring them for a post hike water activity!
We are entering the reservoir to the boat launch, so there is a $11 entry fee. They do take credit cards. This is the easiest way to the trail for a group, parking in the paved lot.
*Dogs allowed on leash
If you bring any kind of a watercraft, there is a mandatory inspection by the ranger after you cross the dam. Otherwise you can continue straight into the parking lot. There are bathrooms here.
Once you leave Hwy 24 in Woodland Park, it's a paved road until you turn RIGHT onto Rampart Range Road when it turns to gravel.