Taylor Park Reservoir & Taylor River Canyon - Image 1
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Taylor Park Reservoir and Taylor River Canyon

4.9
·90 reviews·Almont, United States

A breathtaking high-altitude lake and canyon offering stunning scenery, prime camping, and challenging fishing for trout and pike.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best for fishing and cooler temps

CrowdMedium
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Taylor Park Reservoir & Taylor River Canyon - Image 1

Taylor Park Reservoir and Taylor River Canyon

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best for fishing and cooler temps

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking high-altitude lake and canyon offering stunning scenery, prime camping, and challenging fishing for trout and pike. Reddit

4.9
(90 reviews)

"This place is so awesome and beautiful. We had such a great time camping. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Shore Fishing Lures

Try sucker meat on a tube jig near the outlet for Lakers, or Kastmasters from the east shore for pike.

🏕️ Book Campsites Early

Lakeview Campground is popular; reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekend trips.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Taylor Park Reservoir

Taylor Park Reservoir

The main lake area

A stunning high-altitude lake offering excellent camping and fishing opportunities for trout and pike.

Reddit
Taylor River Canyon Drive

Taylor River Canyon Drive

The road leading to the reservoir

A breathtaking, winding mountain road with spectacular views, ideal for scenic drives and motorcycle rides.

Reddit
Lakeview Campground

Lakeview Campground

On the shores of Taylor Park Reservoir

Shady and pleasant campsites offering beautiful lake views, perfect for a relaxing camping experience.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Camping & Fishing Prep

Book campsites early, especially for weekends! Bring layers as mountain weather changes fast. Fishing can be slow, so patience is key, but sucker meat or Kastmasters can work wonders for trout and pike. Reddit

Scenic Drive & Access

The drive to Taylor Park Reservoir is a beautiful, windy road, perfect for motorcycles. Be prepared for high altitude and potential wind, which can affect fishing conditions. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best for fishing and cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Popular for camping trips
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Fishing at Taylor Park Reservoir

🎣 Shore Fishing Lures

Try sucker meat on a tube jig near the outlet for Lakers, or Kastmasters from the east shore for pike. Reddit

🏕️ Book Campsites Early

Lakeview Campground is popular; reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekend trips. Reddit

reddit.com

Camp and fly fishing the taylor or gunnison?

🏍️ Scenic Motorcycle Route

The windy road to the reservoir is a fantastic ride with amazing mountain scenery. Reddit

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

High altitude means weather can change quickly; pack layers and be ready for wind. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Shore Fishing Lures

Try sucker meat on a tube jig near the outlet for Lakers, or Kastmasters from the east shore for pike. Reddit

🏕️ Book Campsites Early

Lakeview Campground is popular; reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekend trips. Reddit

🏍️ Scenic Motorcycle Route

The windy road to the reservoir is a fantastic ride with amazing mountain scenery. Reddit

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

High altitude means weather can change quickly; pack layers and be ready for wind. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(90 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Taylor Park Reservoir and the scenic drive through Taylor River Canyon, making it a popular spot for camping and enjoying the outdoors. While fishing can be challenging due to picky fish, the overall experience is highly positive, with many appreciating the peaceful atmosphere and picturesque lake views. Reddit

"Had a great time camping and fishing. I stayed at Lakeview campground which was very nice and shady with a overview of the lake. I fished the lake and caught several trout."

David Perrin

"This place is so awesome and beautiful.We had such a great time camping."

Louis Cruz

"Huge but very picky fish."

Christopher Jones, MD

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Great camping
Scenic drive

What People Dislike

Picky fish

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Taylor Park Reservoir is accessed via a scenic, winding road from Almont, Colorado. The drive itself is a highlight, offering beautiful mountain vistas. Be prepared for a potentially bumpy and windy ride, especially if you're not used to mountain roads. Reddit

The road is generally paved but can be narrow and winding. It's a popular route for motorcycles and scenic drives. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy driving their own vehicle, while motorcyclists find the route particularly exhilarating. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for mountain driving. Reddit

Expect sharp turns and elevation changes. During peak season, the road can be busy with other travelers enjoying the scenery. Reddit

Access can be limited in winter due to snow. The prime visiting season is typically late spring through early fall. Always check local conditions before you go. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, you will need a valid Colorado fishing license to fish in the reservoir. Licenses can be purchased online or from local retailers. Reddit

There are typically no general entrance fees to access the reservoir area itself. However, campground fees apply if you plan to stay overnight. Reddit

Camping fees vary, but expect to pay a nightly rate. It's advisable to check the official Forest Service or campground website for current pricing and reservation information. Reddit

Yes, booking campsites in advance, especially for popular spots like Lakeview Campground, is highly recommended, particularly for weekend visits. Reddit

The reservoir area is generally open from dawn to dusk for day use. Campgrounds have specific check-in and check-out times. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities

The reservoir is known for trout (like Lakers) and pike. Fishing can be challenging, with some reporting picky fish. Reddit

For Lakers, try sucker meat on a tube jig near the outlet. For pike, Kastmasters from the eastern shore have been successful. Reddit

Shore fishing is possible, with specific spots like the eastern shore and outlet area showing promise. Patience is key, as fish can be selective. Reddit

Information on boat rentals can be limited. Many visitors bring their own kayaks, canoes, or small fishing boats. Check local outfitters for availability. Reddit

Besides fishing, camping is a major draw. The scenic drive and surrounding natural beauty also make it popular for photography and enjoying the outdoors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vastness of the lake with the surrounding mountains as a backdrop. The winding canyon road also offers dramatic scenic shots. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic lighting, casting beautiful colors across the water and peaks. Early mornings can also be less windy. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. Consider a telephoto lens for wildlife if you're lucky. Reddit

Focus on the interplay of light and shadow on the mountains, the reflections on the water, and the unique curves of the canyon road. Reddit

Be mindful of changing weather conditions and potential wind. Always prioritize safety when stopping for photos along the road. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Taylor Park Reservoir offers a great outdoor adventure for families. Camping at Lakeview Campground provides a comfortable base with beautiful views, and kids will enjoy exploring the lake shores. Reddit While fishing can be challenging, introducing children to casting with simple lures or even just enjoying the act of being outdoors by the water can be a memorable experience. Reddit The scenic drive through Taylor River Canyon is also an adventure in itself, with plenty of opportunities for short stops to admire the views. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, sun protection, and layers of clothing, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Reddit

🎣 Anglers Seeking a Challenge

For anglers looking for a bit of a challenge, Taylor Park Reservoir offers the chance to test your skills against picky fish. Reddit The shared tips for using sucker meat for Lakers and Kastmasters for pike are excellent starting points. Reddit Be prepared for potentially slow fishing days and embrace the process; the beautiful surroundings make the effort worthwhile. Consider bringing a variety of lures and baits to adapt to changing conditions. Reddit

🏍️ Motorcycle Enthusiasts

The windy road through Taylor River Canyon is a dream route for motorcyclists. The spectacular scenery and the exhilarating curves make for an unforgettable ride. Reddit Plan your trip during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and ensure safe navigation of the winding terrain. Stopping at scenic overlooks is a must to capture the grandeur of the landscape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Taylor Park Reservoir

Camping is a primary draw for visitors to Taylor Park Reservoir. Lakeview Campground is frequently mentioned as a desirable spot, offering shade and excellent lake views. Reddit It's crucial to book campsites well in advance, especially if you're planning a trip during a weekend or peak season, as spots fill up quickly. Reddit When camping, remember that this is a high-altitude environment, so be prepared for cooler temperatures, even in summer, and pack accordingly. Ensure you have all necessary camping gear, including warm sleeping bags and layers of clothing. Reddit

Beyond Lakeview, other campgrounds may be available, but Lakeview seems to be a consistent favorite among reviewers for its amenities and location. Visitors often praise the beautiful scenery and the overall peaceful atmosphere of camping by the lake. Reddit Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the area for future visitors. This includes properly disposing of trash and respecting wildlife. Reddit

Fishing Strategies and Conditions

Fishing at Taylor Park Reservoir can be rewarding, but it's also known for its picky fish. Reddit Anglers have shared success with specific bait and lure recommendations. For Lakers, using sucker meat on a tube jig near the outlet area is a reliable tactic. Reddit If you're targeting pike, Kastmasters cast from the eastern shore have proven effective. Reddit It's important to note that fishing conditions can vary, and some visitors have experienced slow fishing days, emphasizing the need for patience. Reddit

The high altitude and potential for wind can also influence fishing success. Be prepared for changing weather and consider fishing during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings. Reddit While shore fishing is popular and feasible, having a boat or kayak can offer access to different parts of the reservoir and potentially more productive fishing spots. Always ensure you have a valid Colorado fishing license before casting your line. Reddit

The Scenic Taylor River Canyon Drive

The drive to Taylor Park Reservoir is an attraction in itself. The Taylor River Canyon features a beautiful, windy road that is a favorite for motorcycle riders and those seeking scenic views. Reddit This route offers dramatic mountain landscapes, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely drive or a spirited ride. Reddit As you ascend, the vistas become increasingly impressive, with opportunities to pull over and capture stunning photographs of the rugged terrain and the winding river below. Reddit

Travelers should be aware that the road is narrow and winding, requiring attentive driving. It's advisable to check road conditions before your trip, especially if traveling outside the main summer season, as weather can impact accessibility. Reddit The journey through the canyon provides a fantastic introduction to the natural beauty of the area and sets the stage for the reservoir experience. Many visitors consider this drive a highlight of their trip, appreciating the spectacular scenery and the sense of adventure it provides. Reddit

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