Skaguay Reservoir SWA - Image 1
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Skaguay Reservoir State Wildlife Area

4.6
·81 reviews·Cripple Creek, United States

A tranquil mountain reservoir offering serene fishing, abundant birdlife, and scenic beauty, perfect for a peaceful day trip.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Unbeatable peace and quiet

CrowdLow
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Skaguay Reservoir SWA - Image 1

Skaguay Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Unbeatable peace and quiet

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil mountain reservoir offering serene fishing, abundant birdlife, and scenic beauty, perfect for a peaceful day trip.

4.6
(81 reviews)

"The most beautiful reservoir I have seen in Colorado. It's very, very big, and you can hike, fish, swim, and kayak in and around it."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road

The 7-mile dirt road from Victor can be rough. A vehicle with good clearance is advised. :car:

🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear

The reservoir is stocked with trout and sometimes pike. Many visitors report successful fishing trips. :fishing_pole:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Serene Fishing Experience

Serene Fishing Experience

Skaguay Reservoir

Enjoy peaceful fishing with good chances of catching trout and occasional pike. The quiet atmosphere enhances the experience.

Abundant Birdwatching

Abundant Birdwatching

Skaguay Reservoir

Spot diverse birdlife including osprey, great-blue herons, and American white pelicans in their natural habitat.

Scenic Reservoir Views

Scenic Reservoir Views

Skaguay Reservoir

Marvel at the vast, beautiful reservoir surrounded by mountains. Perfect for photography and enjoying natural landscapes.

Hike to the Ruins

Hike to the Ruins

Trail near Skaguay Reservoir

Explore an easy-to-follow trail leading to intriguing historical ruins, offering a unique historical perspective.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Skaguay Reservoir

The journey to Skaguay Reservoir involves a 7-mile dirt road starting in Victor, Colorado. While manageable, it can be rough, so a vehicle with decent clearance is recommended. Cell service is spotty, so download offline maps before you go.

Best for Peace and Quiet

This spot is ideal for those seeking tranquility. Reviews consistently mention the extreme quietness, making it perfect for fishing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying nature without crowds. It's not a place for loud activities.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Unbeatable peace and quiet
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Summer
Why
Optimal fishing and birding
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunny Weekend Afternoons
Why
Relaxing atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @peyton 25 year old teenager cries on easiest walk possible in alaska 📍lower dewey lake skagway, alaska #Hiking #thingstodo #alaska #crying #allergies
@lorenesfolder
2.7K likes • 98.6K views

🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road

The 7-mile dirt road from Victor can be rough. A vehicle with good clearance is advised. :car:

🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear

The reservoir is stocked with trout and sometimes pike. Many visitors report successful fishing trips. :fishing_pole:

Refreshing to see the Pullen Creek Park in Skagway, Alaska #seafarerslife #traveltheworld #tiktokphilippines🇵🇭
@crispamaranglasjr
1.8K likes • 18.5K views
reddit.com

Fishing suggestions

🔭 Pack Binoculars

Excellent for birdwatching! Osprey, herons, and pelicans are commonly spotted. :bird:

💧 Pack Water & Snacks

There are limited facilities. Ensure you have enough provisions for your visit. :water_wave:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive Carefully on Dirt Road

The 7-mile dirt road from Victor can be rough. A vehicle with good clearance is advised. :car:

🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear

The reservoir is stocked with trout and sometimes pike. Many visitors report successful fishing trips. :fishing_pole:

🔭 Pack Binoculars

Excellent for birdwatching! Osprey, herons, and pelicans are commonly spotted. :bird:

💧 Pack Water & Snacks

There are limited facilities. Ensure you have enough provisions for your visit. :water_wave:

📵 Download Offline Maps

Cell service is unreliable. Plan your route and download maps beforehand. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(81 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Skaguay Reservoir is lauded for its exceptional peace and natural beauty, offering a serene escape for fishing and birdwatching. Visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the chance to see wildlife like osprey and pelicans. While the 7-mile dirt road access requires careful driving and limited facilities mean packing essentials, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive for those seeking tranquility.

"Truly wonderful place. It's seven miles on a dirt road that starts in Victor. It is extremely quiet. I could hear fisherman 50 yards away talking quietly. The fishing looked good. I saw an Osprey grab a fish and fly off with it. There is a trail around the reservoir, though I'm not sure if it loops all the way around. There is road blocked with a gate that looks like excellent hiking. There was a small picnic area. No overnight camping.
Outstanding birding. Osprey, Great- blue Herons and American White Pelicans were in attendance."

Sir_Alexander_ Dane

"This is the most beautiful reservoir I have seen in Colorado. It's very, very big, and you can hike, fish, swim, and kayak in and around it. People also go camping there, and it is not that busy at all. I would recommend this to anyone visiting Colorado for it's natural beauty."

Savannah Francine Storms

"Quiet little fishing hole tucked away up in the mountains. It was a nice place to relax and fish on a nice sunny weekend.
Stocked with trout pretty regularly and it looked like most people were catching.
Will definitely be visiting again. 🙂"

Jeremy jeremy

What People Like

Incredible peace and quiet
Beautiful reservoir scenery
Good fishing opportunities

What People Dislike

Rough dirt road access
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Skaguay Reservoir is accessed via a 7-mile dirt road starting from Victor, Colorado. The road can be rough, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended. Be aware that cell service is very limited in the area, so it's wise to download offline maps before you depart. Reddit

No, the road is a dirt road. While generally passable, it can be uneven and may require careful driving, especially after rain. Reddit

Using a GPS device or a smartphone with downloaded offline maps is the most reliable way to navigate. The starting point is Victor, Colorado. Reddit

Signs may be present, but relying solely on them can be risky due to the remote nature of the location. Always have a backup navigation method. Reddit

While many vehicles can make the trip, cars with low ground clearance might struggle with the rougher sections of the dirt road. An SUV or truck is ideal. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically no entrance fee to access Skaguay Reservoir State Wildlife Area. It's a public access area for recreation. Reddit

As a state wildlife area, Skaguay Reservoir is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, it's always best to check with Colorado Parks and Wildlife for any specific regulations or seasonal closures. Reddit

Yes, a valid Colorado fishing license is required to fish in Skaguay Reservoir. Licenses can be purchased online or from authorized vendors. Reddit

According to reviews, overnight camping is not permitted at Skaguay Reservoir. It's a destination for day use only. Reddit

Activities like hiking, fishing, swimming, and kayaking are generally permitted. However, always be mindful of wildlife and environmental regulations. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Wildlife

Skaguay Reservoir is known for its trout population, and some visitors have also reported catching northern pike. It's regularly stocked. Reddit

Yes, many visitors find Skaguay Reservoir to be a great spot for fishing, especially for trout. The quiet environment enhances the experience. Reddit

The area is excellent for birdwatching. Common sightings include osprey, great-blue herons, and American white pelicans. You might also see other local wildlife. Reddit

While fishing is possible year-round, many find late spring and early summer to be particularly productive. Weekday mornings offer the most peaceful conditions. Reddit

Information on specific fishing guides for Skaguay Reservoir is limited. It's more of a self-guided, peaceful fishing spot. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Hiking & Activities

Yes, there is a trail around the reservoir, though its full loop status is uncertain. There's also a blocked road with a gate that appears to be an excellent hiking path. Reddit

Swimming is generally permitted in Skaguay Reservoir, offering a refreshing option on warmer days. Reddit

Kayaking and other boating activities are allowed on Skaguay Reservoir, providing a great way to explore the water. Reddit

There are historical ruins accessible via an easy-to-follow trail near the reservoir, offering a unique point of interest for hikers. Reddit

Reviews consistently describe Skaguay Reservoir as very quiet and not busy at all, making it an ideal escape from crowds. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Facilities

There are no restaurants directly at Skaguay Reservoir. The nearest dining options would be in the town of Victor, Colorado. Reddit

Yes, there is a small picnic area available at Skaguay Reservoir, perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature. Reddit

Facilities are minimal, typically including a small picnic area. Restrooms are not commonly mentioned, so plan accordingly. Reddit

No, there are no concessions or stores at Skaguay Reservoir. It's essential to bring all your own food and beverages. Reddit

It is unlikely that potable water is available. Visitors should bring all the water they need for their visit. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Skaguay Reservoir offers a peaceful escape for families looking to connect with nature. The easy-to-follow trail to the ruins provides a fun, short hike for children, adding an element of discovery. Fishing can be a great activity to engage kids, and the chance to spot birds like osprey can be incredibly exciting for younger visitors. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are minimal. The quiet nature of the reservoir means it's best suited for families who appreciate a calm environment. Reddit

Ensure your vehicle can handle a 7-mile dirt road, or consider leaving it at a safe point and walking the rest of the way if necessary. Downloading offline maps is essential, as cell service is unreliable. The lack of crowds can be a huge plus for families, allowing children more freedom to explore safely within sight. Reddit

🎣 Anglers Seeking Peace

If your idea of a perfect fishing trip involves solitude and quiet, Skaguay Reservoir is your destination. Anglers rave about the profound peace found here, with the sounds of nature often being the only interruption. The reservoir is well-stocked with trout, and the occasional pike adds to the allure. Many visitors have had successful fishing days, and the serene setting makes even a slow bite enjoyable. Reddit

Remember to bring your Colorado fishing license and all necessary gear. The 7-mile dirt road access means you'll likely have fewer fellow anglers to contend with, especially on weekdays. Pack extra water and snacks, as amenities are scarce. This is the place to unplug and focus on the cast and the calm. Reddit

🐦 Birdwatchers' Paradise

Skaguay Reservoir is a prime spot for birdwatching, offering excellent opportunities to see a variety of species. The presence of osprey, great-blue herons, and American white pelicans is frequently noted by visitors. The tranquil environment allows for close observation without disturbing the birds. Reddit

Bring your binoculars and a field guide to make the most of your visit. The reservoir's expansive waters and surrounding habitat provide diverse niches for different bird types. It's an ideal location for photographers and nature lovers seeking to capture or simply observe avian life in its natural setting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey to Skaguay Reservoir

Reaching Skaguay Reservoir is part of the adventure. The primary access is via a 7-mile dirt road originating from the historic town of Victor, Colorado. This road, while generally passable, can be rough and uneven, especially after inclement weather. Travelers recommend using a vehicle with decent ground clearance, such as an SUV or truck, to navigate it comfortably. Due to the remote location, cell service is extremely limited, making it crucial to download offline maps and navigation data before you set off. Planning your route in advance will ensure a smoother journey to this secluded gem. Reddit

While the road itself can be a bit of a challenge, the payoff is a sense of arrival at a truly tranquil destination. The drive offers glimpses of the surrounding mountain landscape, building anticipation for the reservoir's beauty. It’s a good idea to check recent road conditions if possible, though local knowledge is often the best source. The effort to get there is often rewarded by the lack of crowds and the pristine natural environment. Reddit

Fishing and Wildlife at Skaguay

Skaguay Reservoir is a haven for anglers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The reservoir is regularly stocked with trout, making it a popular spot for fishing. Many visitors report successful catches, with good-sized trout being a common reward for patient anglers. For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, northern pike are also present, though they are considered a rarer catch. The peaceful atmosphere of the reservoir significantly enhances the fishing experience, allowing for a truly relaxing time on the water. Reddit

Beyond fishing, Skaguay Reservoir is an outstanding location for birdwatching. The area is known to host a variety of avian species, including majestic osprey, graceful great-blue herons, and impressive American white pelicans. Bringing binoculars is highly recommended to fully appreciate the diverse birdlife. The quiet environment means you can often observe wildlife without disturbing them, making for memorable encounters. Reddit

For those interested in a bit of history, a trail near the reservoir leads to intriguing ruins. This adds another layer of exploration to a visit, combining natural beauty with a touch of the past. The trail is described as easy to follow, making it accessible for most visitors. Reddit

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