Dillon Reservoir - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Dillon Reservoir is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're paddleboarding, fishing, or just enjoying a picnic on the beach. The reservoir is located in Summit County, Colorado, and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. There are several things to do at Dillon Reservoir, including paddleboarding, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Paddleboarding is a great way to explore the reservoir and get some exercise. Fishing is also popular, and there are many good spots for trout fishing. Swimming is allowed in a designated area, and there are lifeguards on duty during the summer months. Hiking is another great way to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise. There are several trails that wind through the forest around the reservoir. Dillon Reservoir is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. There are many things to do at Dillon Reservoir, so come and explore today!

Dillon Reservoir is a man-made body of water in Summit County, Colorado. The reservoir is located in the White River National Forest and is situated at an elevation of 9,017 feet (2,746 m). Dillon Reservoir is the largest body of water in Summit County and is a popular destination for fishing, camping, boating, and hiking. The reservoir was created in 1963 when the City of Denver built the Dillon Dam on the Blue River. The dam impounds water from the Blue River and Snake River watersheds for use by the city. The reservoir has a capacity of 257,304 acre-feet (319,790,000 m3) and a surface area of 5 square miles (13 km2). Dillon Reservoir is named after George Eaton Dillon, who was a surveyor and engineer for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad.

The best time to visit Dillon Reservoir is from late May to early September. During this time, the weather is warm and the water is calm. The views are also stunning, with the Rocky Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. 

1.  Bring your fishing gear - Dillon is home to several types of fish, including rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. A valid Colorado fishing license is required.
2. Paddleboarding is a great way to explore the reservoir - rentals are available at several locations around the lake.
3. Check the weather forecast before you go - Summit County can experience extreme temperatures and thunderstorms, so it's important to be prepared.
4. Be aware of wildlife - Dillon is home to several types of animals, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. If you see an animal, do not approach it - enjoy from a distance!
5. Dillon Reservoir is also a popular spot for picnicking and swimming. There are several beaches located around the lake.
6.  Dogs are allowed in most areas around Dillon Reservoir, but they must be leashed at all times.
7. Summit County is a popular ski destination, and there are several ski resorts located nearby.
    

1. Dillon Reservoir was created in 1963 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Blue River.
2. The reservoir is approximately 3 miles long and 1 mile wide, with a maximum depth of 260 feet.
3. Dillon Reservoir is a popular spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and windsurfing.
4. The reservoir is home to a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, and pike.
5. The towns of Dillon and Silverthorne offer a variety of shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
6. Dillon Reservoir is part of the Denver Water system, which supplies water to over 1 million people in the Denver metropolitan area.

While it's impossible to explore everything that Dillon has to offer in a single day, most visitors find that they can comfortably see the highlights in 4-5 hours. 

The best way to reach it is by car. From Denver, take I-70 West until you get to exit 205 for Dillon. At the bottom of the off-ramp, turn left onto Highway 6. You'll follow this road for about 3 miles before reaching the reservoir. There are several parking areas along the road, so you can choose whichever one is most convenient for you.

However, there is an entrance fee to access the reservoir. The fee is $10 per car, and it allows you to explore the reservoir for up to seven days. 

The reservoir is open year-round from dawn to dusk, and there is a wide variety of activities available to visitors.