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Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest wilderness guide
Recreation Area · CO

Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest

Gross Reservoir is a scenic location within Roosevelt National Forest offering a range of water and land-based recreational activities amidst Rocky Mountain beauty.

Recreation Area4403+ Trails

Designation

Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

440

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest

Gross Reservoir is a scenic location within Roosevelt National Forest offering a range of water and land-based recreational activities amidst Rocky Mountain beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Gross Reservoir, located in Roosevelt National Forest, Colorado, is an outdoor enthusiast's haven offering activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The area is defined by the expansive reservoir which acts as a water supply source for Denver, and its surrounding rugged terrain typical of the Rockies. The reservoir spans approximately 440 acres and is bordered by granite peaks, providing a striking contrast between land and water. Established as part of the Denver Water Board's initiative, it serves both recreational and utilitarian purposes. Hikers can explore trails with commanding views of the water and the surrounding landscapes, while those interested in fishing can seek out species like trout in the reservoir's depths. The flora and fauna here are rich, with opportunities to spot various birds and mammals common to the Rockies. The environmental setting is characteristic of the regional mix of forests and riparian zones, making it a natural area of interest.

Field Guide · Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Waterfalls and Wilderness at Staunton State Park★ 7.8⌖ 8 miHiking
Staunton State Park

Waterfalls and Wilderness at Staunton State Park

Explore Staunton State Park near Pine, Colorado, featuring moderate 3.5-mile hiking loops around dramatic granite formations and refreshing waterfalls. Enjoy peaceful trails, rock scrambling, and climbing routes in a quiet mountain forest setting best visited late spring through autumn.

Discover the Splendor of Elk Falls★ 8.1⌖ 9 miHiking
Elk Falls

Discover the Splendor of Elk Falls

Explore Elk Falls in Staunton State Park, Colorado. This beautiful waterfall is accessible via a hike-in trail, offering scenic views of waterfalls and wildlife like elk and deer. Suitable for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Best visited in spring and fall.

Nature and Adventure at Colorado Trail Trailhead: South Platte River★ 8.5⌖ 11 miHiking
Colorado Trail Trailhead: South Platte River

Nature and Adventure at Colorado Trail Trailhead: South Platte River

Start your outdoor adventure at Colorado Trail Trailhead near Sedalia, CO. This drive-in trailhead offers access to hiking, fly fishing, and mountain biking with scenic river views and forested mountain landscapes. Best visited late spring to early fall with suitable gear and permits.

Waterfall and Woods at Maxwell Falls Trailhead, Conifer, CO★ 7.5⌖ 13 miHiking
Maxwell Falls Trailhead

Waterfall and Woods at Maxwell Falls Trailhead, Conifer, CO

Maxwell Falls Trailhead in Conifer, CO offers a moderate hike through pine forests to a photogenic waterfall. Best visited in spring and early summer for fuller flows and wildflowers. Popular for hiking, photography, and wildlife watching in a peaceful, quieter setting.

Waterfall Adventures: Maxwell Falls Lower Trail★ 8.3⌖ 14 miHiking
Maxwell Falls Lower Trail

Waterfall Adventures: Maxwell Falls Lower Trail

Explore Maxwell Falls Lower Trail near Evergreen, CO. This moderately challenging hike leads to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for wildlife viewing and photography. Best visited in spring and fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Magnificent views of the Continental Divide✦ Opportunities to spot elk and other wildlife✦ Premier paddling destination with picturesque scenery✦ Tranquil, less-trafficked hiking routes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required for day-use, but certain activities might need permits.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Winiger Ridge Campground

Located along the reservoir's west side, offering basic facilities and stunning views.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Silver Springs
⌖ 5.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Springs, Colorado

A quiet residential community near Colorado Springs offering easy access to a variety of outdoor activities from urban parks to nearby natural preserves.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Pine
⌖ 5.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pine, Colorado

A peaceful mountain town offering immersive nature experiences with easy access to hiking, mountain biking, winter sports, and serene forest landscapes.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing and snowshoeingExplore Town
Conifer
⌖ 10.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Conifer, Colorado

A peaceful mountain town offering diverse outdoor adventures with easy access to forests, lakes, and trails in the Colorado Rockies.

Late Spring through FallExplore Town
Evergreen
⌖ 17.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Evergreen, Colorado

A quaint mountain town offering quick access to a range of outdoor activities in the Colorado Rockies.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Dumbo
⌖ 17.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dumbo, Colorado

A rugged, quiet mountain area offering remote outdoor adventures with a focus on backcountry experiences and alpine landscapes.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Morrison
⌖ 21.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Morrison, Colorado

A gateway town to stunning red rock landscapes offering diverse outdoor activities amidst mountain views and historic charm.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Gross Reservoir Recreation Area, Roosevelt National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.