Eleven Mile State Park - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There are many things to do at the park, including hiking, fishing, picnicking, and camping. The scenery is stunning, and the wildlife is abundant. Hiking trails wind through meadows and forests, and there are several lakes where you can fish for trout. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, and campsites are available for those who want to stay overnight. And for those looking for a more challenging adventure, the park also features several climbing routes. 

In the late 1800s, the area that is now Eleven Mile State Park was a popular spot for prospectors searching for gold and other minerals. However, it was the construction of the Eleven Mile Reservoir in 1932 that really put the area on the map. The reservoir was built as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, a massive water diversion project designed to provide irrigation water for eastern Colorado. Today, Eleven Mile State Park is a popular recreation destination, offering boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities. The reservoir is also a popular spot for ice fishing in the winter. 

The best time to visit Eleven Mile State Park in Park County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June through August, the park offers beautiful weather and plenty of activities to enjoy. During this time, the average temperatures range from highs in the 80s to lows in the 50s, making it perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

1. The first tip for visiting Eleven Mile State Park is to bring your fishing gear. The park is home to a variety of fish, including trout, pike, and perch. There are also numerous hiking trails, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. 
2. Bring a map, as the trails can be confusing.
3. Stay on designated trails, as there are many dangers lurking off the beaten path. 
4. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife - the park is home to an array of animals including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.
5. Make sure to stop by the Visitor Center when you first arrive - they have maps and helpful information about the park and its attractions.
6.  If you're lucky enough to visit in the summer, make sure to take a dip in one of the park's lakes.
7.  If you're planning on camping, remember to bring everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a tent, sleeping bag, and camp stove.

1. Eleven Mile State Park was established in 1955 and it covers 7,110 acres of land.The park gets its name from Eleven Mile Reservoir, which is the centerpiece of the park and one of the largest reservoirs in the state.
2. Eleven Mile Reservoir is 11 miles long and 3 miles wide and it has a maximum depth of 260 feet and  The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, and kokanee salmon.
3. The park is open year-round, with winter activities such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing available.
4. The reservoir is also a popular spot for scuba diving, with several depths and types of underwater features to explore.
5. On the shores of the reservoir, visitors will find numerous camping options, including RV sites, tent sites and backcountry campsites.

While it's possible to explore the entire park in one day, most visitors prefer to take their time and enjoy all that it has to offer. 

The best way to reach the park is by car. Take US Highway 24 west from Colorado Springs for about 50 miles. Then take a left onto County Road 77, and follow the signs to the park entrance. 

In order to help preserve this natural wonderland, the park charges an entrance fee of $7 per vehicle. The fee helps to cover the cost of maintaining the park's roads and trails, as well as providing education and law enforcement services. 

Eleven Mile State Park is open year-round from 5 AM. to 10 PM.