Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir
Type … Drive-up, Woods Wander, Hike
Highlights … Views, Alpine Lake, Creek
Seasons … Summer + Fall
Closest Town … Copper Mountain
Shade … Some
Parking Situation … Plenty
Potty Situation … No Potty!
Map/Location… Google Map HERE
This trail is my newest kid-friendly obsession. The backdrop of this reservoir is absolutely stunning, like is-that-even-real stunning and it’s there right when you drive up! There is a loop all the way around the lake if you choose to hike this (see hiking post for info on this).
The best beaches for a drive-up (and short walk) are accessed from the second parking lot you see if coming from Copper - the area that starts in the forested section. You’ll have to bushwhack a little to get down to the water but it’s totally doable.
DRIVE-UP TIPS
Parking. There are two parking lots for this hike, to the left and right of the reservoir if you’re looking at it. I would park on the left if hiking and on the right if looking to do minimal walking. There are a few small beaches at the beginning of the forested section that you can hang out on if you don’t feel like hiking much.
Muddy. The left side of the loop (if you go that way) can be quite muddy so keep in mind in terms of footwear.
Fishing. If you’re an angler, fishing is allowed at the lake and in a small section of stream that feeds from the far end of the lake.
The ultimate drive-up!!
One side of the loop is wooded like this
Other side of loop is open like this
Some great beaches for exploring
Opposite side of the lake from the parking
Far end of the lake where the fishing is