Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area is a great place to explore the outdoors. Located in Park County, Colorado, the recreation area offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking and biking trails wind through the canyon, and rock climbing and fishing are also popular activities. picnicking and camping are also allowed in certain areas of the canyon. In addition, the recreation area is home to a number of historical sites, including an old stagecoach stop. Visitors can learn about the area's history at the Eleven Mile State Historic Park. With so much to see and do, Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area is a great destination for a day trip or a longer vacation.

Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing. The canyon was originally inhabited by the Ute Indians, who used the area for hunting and gathering. In the 1800s, prospectors began to move into the area in search of gold and other minerals. The town of Garo, which was located at the mouth of the canyon, soon became a thriving community. However, after the miners left and the town was abandoned, the canyon fell into disrepair. In the 1970s, the area was reopened to the public as a recreation area. Today, visitors can enjoy miles of hiking trails, picnicking areas, and stunning views of the canyon.

Spring is the best time to visit Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area. The weather is milder, making it more comfortable to hike and camp. The wildflowers are in bloom, painting the landscape with a colorful array of blooms. And the waterfalls are flowing at their peak, making for a spectacular sight. If you can't make it in spring, summer is also a good time to visit. 

1. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no food or drink vendors in the park.
2. Be sure to apply sunscreen and wear a hat, as the altitude can make the sun feel especially strong.
3. If you're visiting during the summer months, be aware that temperatures can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so it's important to stay hydrated.

4. Dogs are welcome in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

5. Fishing is allowed in certain areas of the canyon, but please check with a ranger first to find out where it is permitted.

6. Although fires are not allowed in the canyon, you can enjoy a picnic at one of the many picnic areas located along the Rim Rock Drive scenic route.

1. Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area is named after the Eleven Mile Canyon Dam, which was built in 1911 to impound the South Platte River.The reservoir has a capacity of 36,000 acre-feet and covers an area of 4,700 acres.
2.  The Reservoir Loop Trail is a popular hiking trail that encircles the entire reservoir and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. One of the most popular campgrounds in Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area is Moraine Park Campground, which offers 44 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings.
4. Fishing is a popular pastime at Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area and anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for all anglers 16 years of age or older.
5. The byway is designated as an National Forest Scenic Byway and a Colorado Scenic Byway.
6. Hiking trails wind through the canyon, following along the river and providing access to scenic overlooks. 
7. Eleven Mile Canyon State Park is located within the recreation area and offers additional amenities such as picnic areas and boat docks. 
    

 Depending on how much time you have and what you want to do, it is possible to spend anywhere from a few hours to a few days exploring the area. 

To reach Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area, park county, colorado, take Highway 24 west from Lake George for about 11 miles. The canyon will be on your right. There is a large parking area at the mouth of the canyon. From the parking area, you can either take the trailhead up into the canyon or follow the river itself.

The entrance fee will be $3 per vehicle or $2 per person for walk-ins and cyclists. 

During the winter months, the recreation area is open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, while in the summer it is open from 6 AM to 8 PM.