Aurora Reservoir Trail

Yes, there is a daily entry fee per car to access the Aurora Reservoir and its amenities, including the trail. This fee helps maintain the facilities and recreational opportunities available.

Parking is available at the Aurora Reservoir. The trail is a complete circuit around the reservoir, so you can typically access it from various points around the perimeter where parking is provided.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Many users bring their dogs, but please ensure they are kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for everyone.

The trail is open year-round, offering different experiences with each season. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures, while summer can be hot due to the lack of shade. Winter hiking is also possible, but be prepared for colder conditions. Many enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the reservoir, making early morning or late afternoon popular times.

The trail primarily consists of wide cement sections, with some asphalt and narrower portions. It is largely paved and exposed, meaning there's not much shade. While mostly paved, natural surface trails also branch off, particularly near the shoreline. The terrain generally features gentle inclines, making it accessible for many.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy to moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers, walkers, and runners. Its gentle terrain and mostly paved surfaces contribute to its accessibility, and it is also ADA accessible.

Hikers can enjoy expansive lakeshore views of the Aurora Reservoir, encompassing trees, shrubs, fields, and rolling hills. On clear days, you might catch scenic views of the Front Range mountains. The area is also rich in wildlife, with sightings of deer, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, bald eagles, pronghorn, mule deer, and various songbirds.

Beyond hiking, the Aurora Reservoir is a hub for numerous other recreational activities. These include fishing, non-motorized boating, paddleboarding, swimming at a seasonal beach, and an archery range. It's also a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Aurora Reservoir Perimeter Trail, Aurora Reservoir 5K Trail, Nacre Trail, and Meade Gulch Trail.

Given that the trail is largely exposed with not much shade, it's crucial to plan accordingly. Bring plenty of water, wear sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and consider sunglasses. The trail is a complete loop, so you'll end up back where you started.

The entire loop around the Aurora Reservoir offers continuous scenic views of the lake and its surroundings. On clear days, you can also enjoy distant views of the Front Range mountains. Many visitors particularly appreciate the beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the water.