South Catamount Reservoir
A picturesque mountain reservoir offering stunning Pikes Peak views, excellent trout fishing, and scenic hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
South Catamount Reservoir
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque mountain reservoir offering stunning Pikes Peak views, excellent trout fishing, and scenic hiking trails.
"Breathtaking views and wonderful fishing spots make this a must-visit."
🚗 Pikes Peak Highway Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee for Pikes Peak Highway to access the reservoir.
🎣 Stocked Trout Fishing
The reservoir is well-stocked with trout, making it a great spot for fishing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
South Catamount Reservoir Views
Along Pikes Peak Highway
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, with Pikes Peak towering in the background.
Fishing Opportunities
Reservoir shores
Well-stocked with trout, offering a rewarding experience for anglers of all levels.
Hiking Trails
Surrounding mountains
Explore trails like Catamount Falls for varied terrain and rewarding reservoir views.
Scenic Drive
Pikes Peak Highway
A beautiful drive with opportunities to stop and admire the landscape, leading to the reservoir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to South Catamount Reservoir
Accessing South Catamount Reservoir
be prepared for the drive and potential weather changes at higher elevations. Electric motor boats are permitted, making it ideal for a peaceful day on the water.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pikes Peak Highway Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee for Pikes Peak Highway to access the reservoir.
🎣 Stocked Trout Fishing
The reservoir is well-stocked with trout, making it a great spot for fishing.
🛶 Electric Boats Allowed
Electric motor boats are permitted, perfect for a peaceful day on the water.
🐶 Pet-Friendly (with caution)
Pets are welcome, but keep them out of the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pikes Peak Highway Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee for Pikes Peak Highway to access the reservoir.
🎣 Stocked Trout Fishing
The reservoir is well-stocked with trout, making it a great spot for fishing.
🛶 Electric Boats Allowed
Electric motor boats are permitted, perfect for a peaceful day on the water.
🐶 Pet-Friendly (with caution)
Pets are welcome, but keep them out of the water.
🥾 Hiking Options
Consider hiking trails like Catamount Falls for stunning views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of South Catamount Reservoir, highlighting the breathtaking views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains. The fishing is frequently praised for being excellent due to consistent stocking, and the option to use electric motor boats adds to the appeal. While the drive up Pikes Peak Highway has an entrance fee, most agree the scenery and recreational opportunities make it well worth the visit.
"This lake is amazing. You can use boats with electric motors there. There are 2 other lakes in the area, and they keep them STOCKED. I've caught so many trout here. Water is so clean, and the view is just stunning. There are restrooms, and parking lots. You can bring your pets, but don't let them swim in the water."
Brittany G
"Beautiful views. Fishing is pretty good. Usually not to crowded. Great place to hike around with kids"
Philip Meyer
"I've lived here all my life and driven up Pikes Peak many times, but this is the first time I've ever been to the Catamounts. Lots of great hiking, wonderful fishing spots, and breathtaking views all around! We'll definitely go back."
Leea McCollum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Catamount Reservoir is accessible via the Pikes Peak Highway. Be prepared for an entrance fee to use the highway. The drive itself offers beautiful scenery.
Yes, there are parking lots available near the reservoir, making it convenient for visitors.
You can drive to the reservoir via the Pikes Peak Highway. It's a scenic drive that takes about 20-30 minutes to loop through the area.
South Catamount Reservoir sits at an elevation of 9,229 feet.
The drive is scenic but involves higher elevations. Be mindful of potential weather changes and take your time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a separate fee for the reservoir itself, you will need to pay the entrance fee for the Pikes Peak Highway to access it.
Operating hours for the Pikes Peak Highway can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Pikes Peak website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, boats with electric motors are permitted on South Catamount Reservoir, offering a great way to enjoy the water.
Restrooms are available at the reservoir, adding to the convenience for visitors.
Yes, a valid Colorado fishing license is required to fish in South Catamount Reservoir. You can purchase licenses online or from authorized retailers.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Water Activities
The reservoir is known for being well-stocked with trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities.
Many visitors report good fishing success, catching numerous trout. It's considered a great spot for anglers.
Absolutely! Paddleboarding is a popular activity here, and many visitors have had unforgettable summers enjoying the scenery.
While specific real-time reports might be scarce, general consensus from reviews indicates consistent stocking and good fishing.
South Catamount Reservoir is frequently recommended as a good fishing spot in the vicinity of Colorado Springs.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
The reservoir offers stunning views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains, especially beautiful during golden hour.
Yes, it's described as having breathtaking views and being a beautiful drive with stunning scenery all around.
Late afternoons, during the golden hour, provide beautiful lighting for capturing the reservoir and mountain landscapes.
The area is known for its natural beauty, including nearby waterfalls like Catamount Falls, offering diverse photographic subjects.
Yes, Pikes Peak is a prominent feature in the views from the South Catamount Reservoir, offering iconic photo backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Remember that pets are allowed but must be kept out of the water, which is important for younger children who might want to play near the shore. The fishing opportunities are also a big draw for families. With the reservoir being well-stocked, kids have a good chance of catching a fish, making for an exciting and memorable experience.
🎣 Anglers Seeking Trout
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
Exploring nearby trails like Catamount Falls also provides diverse natural subjects, from cascading water to lush mountain flora. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around South Catamount Reservoir
+1 Many visitors enjoy combining hikes to see multiple natural features, such as Mount Dewey and Garden of Eden, alongside the reservoir. When planning your hike, consider the elevation and potential for changing weather conditions. Trails can be icy at certain times of the year, so appropriate footwear and gear are essential.
The effort is often well worth it, with reviewers consistently praising the 'breathtaking views' and the overall experience of being immersed in nature. For those looking for a less strenuous experience, shorter loops or sections of trails can still offer beautiful scenery and access to the reservoir's edge. Always check trail conditions before you go, especially if you are hiking with children or less experienced members of your group.
Fishing at South Catamount Reservoir: A Local Favorite
While specific fishing reports can be hard to come by, the consistent positive feedback suggests it's a reliable destination. The reservoir is also unique in that it allows boats with electric motors, providing a peaceful way to access different fishing spots on the water.
Beyond the fishing itself, the reservoir's location on Pikes Peak Highway adds to its appeal. The drive to and from the fishing spot is scenic, and the presence of restrooms and parking lots makes it a convenient choice for a day trip.
The Scenic Drive and Reservoir Experience
Visitors often stumble upon the reservoir by chance and find it to be a delightful discovery, describing the drive as 'really nice' and 'worth it.' Once you arrive, the reservoir provides a serene setting with stunning views. It's a place where you can relax by the water, enjoy the clean air, and take in the grandeur of the surrounding peaks, including Pikes Peak itself.
Whether you're coming for the fishing, hiking, or simply to enjoy the views, the South Catamount Reservoir offers a memorable escape. It's a spot that many locals and visitors alike plan to return to, drawn by its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
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