Pueblo Reservoir and Greenway Trail

The terrain is quite varied. The main Pueblo Reservoir Trail features a hard, paved concrete surface, suitable for many activities. However, branching paths along the Arkansas River include both dirt and paved sections. For a more challenging experience, the south shore of Lake Pueblo State Park offers miles of rugged singletrack trails, some with shale. While shorter paved sections are generally easy, the full route, especially for jogging, is considered difficult due to its length and varied elevation changes, requiring good fitness.

The full route is approximately 26.1 kilometers (16.2 miles) long. For jogging, it typically takes around 2 hours and 42 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level. Keep in mind this is for the entire route, and you can choose to do shorter sections.

The trail system offers numerous access points throughout Pueblo. Given its connection to Lake Pueblo State Park and the Arkansas River Trail, you'll find parking available at various points along the route. For direct access to the reservoir area, look for parking within Lake Pueblo State Park.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as parts of the trail run through Lake Pueblo State Park and other public areas, it's essential to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them. Always check for specific signage regarding pet regulations in different sections of the trail.

Pueblo's consistently warmer and drier climate compared to other areas of the Front Range makes this a popular year-round destination. It's particularly ideal for winter activities like jogging when many other trails might be inaccessible. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer can be hot, so plan for early morning or late evening jogs during those months.

Since a significant portion of the trail system is located within Lake Pueblo State Park, you will need a valid Colorado State Parks Pass or pay a daily entrance fee to access the park and its trails. This fee helps maintain the park facilities and trails.

You'll encounter diverse scenery along the trail. Highlights include the Arkansas River MUP, which offers views along the river and unique colorful graffiti art. You'll also pass by the Gravel Quarry (which can be scenic when filled with water), and the Lake Pueblo North Marina, providing expansive views of Lake Pueblo itself. The trail also runs alongside the West Pueblo Ditch, Valco Ponds, and Blue Ribbon Creek.

Yes, the route is part of an extensive 30-mile network and intersects with several other paths. Notably, it includes sections of the ADT - Colorado B - P - Seg 1, the Arkansas River Multi-Use Path, the Colorado Front Range Trail, and various segments of the North Marina MUP and Pueblo Reservoir Trail.

While the main Pueblo Reservoir and Greenway Trail as mapped is a point-to-point or out-and-back route, the extensive network of interconnected trails, including those around Lake Pueblo and along the Arkansas River, offers many opportunities to create your own loop options by combining different sections of paved and singletrack paths.

Given the varied terrain and high-desert environment, wear comfortable jogging shoes suitable for both paved and potentially rugged surfaces. Layered clothing is advisable due to temperature fluctuations, especially in spring and fall. Always bring plenty of water, as amenities can be sparse on certain sections, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is crucial due to the open landscape.

For beginners or those looking for an easier jog, stick to the main paved sections of the Pueblo Reservoir Trail, particularly closer to downtown Pueblo or the flatter areas near the Arkansas River MUP. These sections are generally considered easy for shorter distances (up to 3 miles) and have minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for all fitness levels.