Elkhead Reservoir State Park

About

Elkhead Reservoir State Park offers a moderate fall hiking experience located 9 miles east of Craig in Colorado's Yampa Valley. The park sits at an elevation of 6,463 feet and covers 2,100 acres, featuring a 900-acre reservoir. Hikers can access approximately 10.5 miles of trails suitable for walking, biking, and horseback riding. These trails wind around the reservoir and through surrounding hills, providing views of the high desert landscape. The typical hike duration is about 2 hours. Fall conditions from September through November bring changing foliage and potential mud or snow on the trails. Parking is available at the entrance, and daily vehicle passes range from $12 to $17 depending on license status. Individual entry for hikers costs $4. Leashed dogs and service animals are permitted on the trails. While restrooms are available, there is no visitor center within the park itself; visitors can access information at the nearby Yampa River Visitor Center in Hayden. Wildlife viewing is common, with elk, deer, pronghorn, hawks, eagles, and owls present in the area. The park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.