Antero Reservoir - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Antero Reservoir is a beautiful place to spend a day, or even a week. There are plenty of things to do, including fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping. The reservoir is excellent for fishing, with species such as trout, kokanee salmon, and northern pike. There are also several hiking trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains. Camping is also popular at Antero Reservoir, with a variety of sites available for both tents and RVs. Regardless of how you spend your time at Antero Reservoir, you're sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Antero Reservoir is located in Park County, Colorado, approximately 60 miles southwest of Denver. The reservoir is situated atop Antero Mountain, at an elevation of 10,200 feet. It was created in 1969 by the United States Bureau of Reclamation as part of the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project, a large water development project in Colorado. The reservoir is named for Mount Antero, the highest peak in the Antero Range. The mountain and the range are themselves named for Chief Antero of the Ute tribe, who once inhabited the region.

Antero Reservoir is fed by the South Platte River and has a capacity of nearly 200,000 acre-feet. It is a popular recreation spot for boating, camping, fishing, and hiking. The reservoir is also home to several species of fish, including trout, kokanee salmon, and pike. Wildlife enthusiasts can often spot bald eagles and ospreys near the water's edge.

The Antero Reservoir area is rich in history. Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have been present in the region for at least 10,000 years. The Ute people were the first known inhabitants of the area, and they used the mountains for hunting and gathering. Mount Antero was considered sacred by the Ute and was off-limits to all but tribal leaders. In 1873, European settlers arrived in Park County and began ranching and mining operations in the area. Today, much of the land around Antero Reservoir is owned by the United States Forest Service and is open to public use.

The best time to visit Antero Reservoir is from late spring to early fall. During this time, the weather is mild and the fish are biting. However, it's important to be aware that the reservoir can get crowded on weekends and holidays. 

1. Antero Reservoir is located at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, so be prepared for the thinner air. Drink lots of water and take it easy at first to avoid altitude sickness.
2. The reservoir gets very crowded on weekends, so try to come during the week if you can. Weekdays are also less busy at the nearby campgrounds.
3.  Fishing is popular at Antero Reservoir, and you need a valid Colorado fishing license to fish here. You can buy a license online or at any sporting goods store before you arrive.
4. There are boat ramps at both north and south shore campgrounds, but only boats with electric motors are allowed on the reservoir. Gasoline engines are not permitted due to the risk of fire.
5.  There are plenty of hiking and biking trails in the area, so bring your hiking shoes or bike! Or just enjoy a leisurely walk around the reservoir.
6. If you're camping, be sure to bring bear-proof containers for all your food and trash. Bears are attracted to campsites where they can find an easy meal!
7. Mosquitoes can be a problem near the water, so bring insect repellent if you're planning to spend time near the shoreline.
8. There are several hiking trails around the reservoir that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For an easy hike, try the 2-mile-long South Shore Trail. For a more challenging hike, try the 5-mile-long North Shore Trail.
9. Camping is allowed in designated areas only and a permit is required. Permits can be obtained at the visitor center or online at recreation.gov . Campfires are not permitted within 100 feet of the shoreline.
    

1. There are two main types of fish found in the reservoir: cutthroat trout and kokanee salmon. Cutthroat trout are caught using bait or lures, while kokanee salmon are caught using lures or flies.
2. The average depth of the reservoir is 30 feet, with a maximum depth of 90 feet.
3. In 2007, Antero Reservoir was designated as a Gold Medal Fishery by the Colorado Wildlife Commission. 
4. The reservoir is also a popular spot for birdwatching; over 200 species of birds have been observed in the area. 
5.  In 2008, the Antero Hot Springs were developed near the reservoir, providing visitors with another recreational opportunity. 
6. Denver Water offers guided tours of Antero Reservoir for groups of 10 or more people.

While there is no definitive answer as to how long it takes to explore the entire reservoir, most experts agree that two days is sufficient. However, those who want to truly experience all that Antero Reservoir has to offer may want to consider spending a week in the area.

The best way to reach it is by car. From Denver, take I-70 west to US Highway 24 south. Follow US Highway 24 for about 28 miles to the town of Fairplay. In Fairplay, turn onto County Road 11 and follow it for about 10 miles. Antero Reservoir will be on your left .

The daily fee is just $5 per vehicle. Annual passes are also available for $40.

The reservoir is open all year round, and the hours of operation vary depending on the season. In the winter, the reservoir is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. In the spring and fall, the hours are extended to 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. And in the summer, the reservoir is open from 6:00
AM to 8:00 PM.