Exploring Eleven Mile Canyon: A Perfect Day Trip
Exploring Eleven Mile Canyon: A Perfect Day Trip
For those wishing to detach from the fast-paced daily routines and embrace nature, Eleven Mile Canyon is the right place. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, numerous fishing spots, and plenty of picnic spots, it is the perfect place for either a family outing or a relaxation trip with a few people. This tour is the ultimate way to get familiar with the spot and catch the most out of your visit.
Getting There
Weather
Take Eleven Mile Canyon Road to Eleven Mile Canyon situated in the Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area. It is operated by the Forest Service, and you need to pay a $11 entrance fee. The road is easy and drivable by most cars but, it narrows in a few areas.
The road isn't merely a passage but it was initially a railway track for the Colorado Midland Railroad laid in the year 1932. The drive will take you through the canyon and scenic views of the South Platte River which make the ride just as pleasant as the destination.
Campsites and Picnic Areas
Inside the recreation area there are four campgrounds along with four designated picnic sites. Nevertheless, it is crucial to point out that dispersed camping is prohibited. The campgrounds provide a variety of amenities as well as river access, a perfect place for you to spend your day unwinding and enjoying the water.
The beginning of the road is flat with plenty of space to chill out along the river. The closer you get to the dam the bank becomes steep and rocky with fast moving water. The calm sections of the river attract fly fishers, a popular activity at the easily reachable river spots.
Fishing Opportunities
The South Plate River is teeming with fish making it a good fishing destination for both beginners and experienced anglers. The calm of the river and the unique view of the canyon make fishing a serene experience.
Even if you are not a person who fishes, being around others doing it can be very relaxing. I'm gonna have to try next time!
Picnic Areas: A Great Spot to Relax
A picnic area by the river was one of the spots I liked best. There are a few picnic tables and interesting rocks that were good for climbing, an ideal setting for a family lunch or just a time to be alone with a book.
Historic Tunnels
As you drive along Eleven Mile Canyon Road you will pass through three historic tunnels. If you look up as you drive through the tunnels you'll see the black marks left behind from the smoke of the locomotives.
Final Destination: The Dam
The road terminates at Eleven Mile Reservoir Dam, where the last camp site is found on the path. Although this signifies the termination of the road, it doesn’t mean the conclusion of your adventure.
Exploring Nice Camp
My primary destination was Eleven Mile Canyon, but in the course of my journey I also had the opportunity to checkout Nice Camp, which is a nearby trail network. Nice Camp, which is only about 10 to 15 minutes away, has many short and simple trails that you can take for a quick hike or a fast exploration.
This area permits dispersed camping and is a great option for people who want to stay away from the crowds in the canyon. Still, keep in mind that, during the summer weekends, a lot of places might be occupied.
Bear Sightings
The time I spent exploring the outdoors was full of excitingtales that I heard from other adventurers, the latest being a bear sighting in the area. Although I did not see the bear myself, its presence was a clear reminder of how beautifully diverse and rich the fauna is in this part of the world. During your hikes in the wild, you need to be very careful and conscious of everything around you.
Conclusion
Eleven Mile Canyon was a lot of fun. There are several recreational option in the area, whether you want to have fun, go fishing, or check out the new trails. It is advisable to carry a lunch, pick up your fishing pole, and admire the lovely outdoors at Eleven Mile Canyon.
If you're looking for a day trip that combines adventure and relaxation try Eleven Mile Canyon. You definitely won't regret it!
Eleven Mile Canyon F.A.Q.s
1. Is there a fee to access the Eleven Mile Recreation Area?
Yes. It is $11.00 per vehicle.
2. How long is Eleven Mile Canyon Road?
It is 8.8 miles one-way.
3. How long does it take to complete Eleven Mile Canyon?
It takes about an hour if you take your time and enjoy the scenery.
4. Is the Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area open year round?
Yes! The Eleven Mile Canyon is open during the winter, but may close for bad weather.
5. How far is Eleven Mile Canyon from Denver?
It is about a 2 hour drive from Denver to Eleven Mile Canyon.
6. How far is Eleven Mile Canyon from Colorado Springs?
It is about a 50 minute drive from Colorado Springs to Eleven Mile Canyon.
7. Is dispersed camping allowed along Eleven Mile Canyon?
No, but there are campgrounds along the Platte River in the Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area. Dispersed camping spots are available in the area outside the recreation area.
8. Where can I camp in the Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area?
There are four campgrounds within the recreation area.
9. How much does it cost to camp in the Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area?
The fee is $24.00 a night with additional fees for more than 2 vehicles or 1 RV.
10. Where can I disperse camping close to Eleven Mile Canyon?
Dispersed camping is allowed on these nearby trails: Fish Creek, Nice Camp, Great View, and Sledge Hammer
11. What other off-road trails are close to Eleven Mile Canyon?
There are several easy to moderate off-road trails in the area that allow dispersed camping.Fish Creek, Nice Camp, Great View, and Sledge Hammer
12. Are there hotels close to Eleven Mile Canyon?
Just a couple.
For more lodging options consider staying in Cripple Creek about 35 minutes away.