Ruedi Reservoir, Colorado

Ruedi Reservoir, a high elevation body of water created by the Ruedi Dam, offers boating, fishing, hiking and biking access for those who prefer to stay out of mainstream Aspen recreation.

Overview

The construction of Ruedi Dam, as part of the storied Fryingpan-Arkansas Project of 1950s capitol politics, created the Ruedi (pronounced Roo-Dye) Reservoir, just 14 miles east of Basalt, CO, in the Fryingpan River Valley. This multipurpose reservoir provides a water source for everything from industrial to municipal to recreational use. Let's talk about recreational use, shall we?

Location/Directions

The reservoir, located on the western slope of the Fryingpan River Basin, can be visited by heading south on Highway 82. Take a left, heading east, on Fryingpan Road, at the town of Basalt.

Approaching from Aspen? Just drive 19 miles north on 82 and look for Fryingpan Road in Basalt. The reservoir is located about 14 miles down the road. You can't miss it!

There is an $8 parking fee to park in the lot by the boat ramp. Located in White River National Forest, though not on land designated "wilderness," contact Aspen/Sopris Ranger District at (970) 963-2266 or 925-3445 for more information.

Seasons

Visit the reservoir after the snow melts, when the summer sun warms the afternoon, when the leaves begin to change. Facilities around the reservoir close in the winter months, although ice fishing is allowed on the frozen water. Yes, the reservoir freezes over. Located at high altitude (about 7800 feet), Ruedi Reservoir is certainly subject to extreme weather conditions, especially in the months around and during the winter. In the warmer season, too, use caution, as a sunny July afternoon can quickly turn into an afternoon of severe storm weather.

Fishing

You cannot say the words "Fryingpan River" without including "unbelievable fishing." The same holds true for Ruedi Reservoir. Stocked with tens of thousands of trout each year, this is the place to go for a good day with your trusty rod and reel. Gamefish that one should hope to hook include rainbow, brown and mackinaw trouts, as well as kokanee salmon and mountain whitefish, which records show are swimming in these waters. In 2009, Colorado's Department of Wildlife encouraged anglers to remove any yellow perch caught in the res, as the perch compete for the limited resources necessary for the healthy propogation of trout. Ruedi Reservoir does not carry special conditions or restrictions beyond Colorado State licensing requirements. Fishing licenses can be purchased from Colorado Department of Wildlife by visiting www.wildlife.state.co.us or by calling 1-800-244-5613.

Boating

Finally, a place to launch your motor boat! Boats of all varieties, sail to pontoon, are allowed in these spacious waters. A boat ramp is located by the main parking lot. Please, be mindful of restrictions regarding invasive species spread through contaminated boats. Visit www.wildlife.state.co.us for more information.

Hiking

Ruedi Trail: Located to the north of the reservoir, this trail takes hikers (and bikers) to the top of Red Table Mountain. The trailhead can be easily found about 200 feet north of the jeep trail near the boat ramp and parking lot. This eight mile trail gains over 3000 feet elevation, leading hikers to a spectacular 360 degree vista view. For trip planning, contact Sopris Ranger District at (970) 963-2266.

Biking

First a word about bike trails in the area: They are also open to hikers.

Rocky Fork Trail: Located south of the res. For access, take a right, off Fryingpan Road, at the angler's access road below Ruedi Dam. Follow the road until it dead ends. Trailhead located at the dead end. The initial ascent of this trail is certainly steep but it levels and inclines become more gradual. This trailhead allows access to a system of trails which, depending on how you go, could take you to Basalt or Woody Creek. Please, consult trail maps available at White River National Forest Ranger stations in Aspen and Carbondale.

Camping

Four campgrounds, availing over 75 sites, are located on the northern side of the reservoir, though only three are open for the 2010 season. (Little Maude is closed.)  Little Mattie and Ruedi Marina campgrounds do not accept reservations. Mollie B, however, does take reservations and offers hot/cold water, flush toilets and an on-site dump station. These are not your hard-knocks campsites! Visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/whiteriver/recreation/campgrounds/index.shtml for more information.