Monday, June 01, 2009

Camping Colorado: Twin Lakes Reservoir


Parry Peak (13500ft) just north of the Twin Lakes Reservoir transforms in the spring months.

Nestled between the headwaters of the Arkansas River and Twin Peaks mountain (13200ft) along CO HWY 82 lays the Twin Lakes Reservoir. Twin lakes Reservoir is two lakes connected by a small channel and surrounded by high mountain prairie. There are four campground clusters located north of the water, two boat dock, ample fishing, both lake and stream, plenty of peak bagging opportunities, including numerous 13ers a trail to Colorado's highest 14er, Mt.Elbert (14,440ft).
The area also includes a section of the famed Colorado Trail which stretches from Durango to Denver.


Nell chills by the lake and posses for a snapshot.
We rode the Colorado Trail section, then along the beach while the weather held on Day 1.

The Doors tune “LA Women” played early that morning while the ipod was on shuffle. We drank coffee and ate breakfast, it set the tone and tempo for day.

One of the best parts of the Campgrounds was the walk in site for tent camping only. These site usually attract a mellower crowd. They went unused on our visit. We have the site Ridge #36.

The surrounding snow capped peaks slowly melt and feed the numerous creeks and streams in the area. Eventually that water makes it's way to the reservoir which is murky and cold during this time. Bright lurkers and flies are recommended for anglers.

A Colorado Mountain Bluebird visits in the early morning hours.

A comfortable yurt sits next to the Twin lakes for traveler walking or riding the Colorado Trail. It was empty this week as the high country is undoubtedly still snow packed and difficult to travel with heavy packs....A Slushfest.

Nell reads excerpts of "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven" (one of her favorite that shes read many times) aloud while the morning coffee steeps.