Crystal Creek Reservoir

Crystal Creek Reservoir located at the foot of Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs. The reservoir is on the northeast side of Pikes, and has striking view of America’s mountain. It’s one of three reservoirs that are part of the North Slope Recreation Area located northeast of Colorado Springs. Owned and managed by the City of Colorado Springs, these beautiful water-supply reservoirs and their surrounding areas offer a smattering of recreational activities including hiking, picnicking, non-motorized boating, and fishing. There is ample parking space as well as adventure, recreation, and relaxation space for all visitors. Bringing a picnic to enjoy next to the reservoir makes for a lovely afternoon, but be aware that due to the sensitive nature of the surrounding area and efforts to take care of the high-alpine environment, visitors are asked to confine picnics to the developed sites. There is a small bait and tackle and gift shop at the beginning of the trail head near the parking area for last-minute fishing and snack needs. Trails circumnavigate the reservoir, which are great for mellow hiking or for fishing away from the parking area and the crowds. Crystal Creek Reservoir offers easy access to rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout for the young or experienced angler. Some fishermen enjoy bringing up non-motorized boats which allow off-shore access to occasional lake and brown trout.

Pro Tip

Recommended season(s): This area is accessible any time the Pikes Peak Highway is open, but the views of Pikes Peak are especially spectacular during late spring or early summer when not all the snow has melted off the north side, but the weather is heating up at lower elevations.

—Annie Brewster