Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Eleven Mile State Park is located in Park County, Colorado, centered around Eleven Mile Reservoir, a 3,405-acre high-mountain lake at approximately 9,100 feet elevation. The park's geography includes rolling foothills, granite rock formations, and dramatic vistas of the surrounding Pike National Forest. The reservoir serves as a key habitat for trout and kokanee salmon, attracting anglers from across the region. Ecologically, the area supports diverse wildlife including mule deer, bald eagles, osprey, and occasionally black bears, benefiting from the mix of aquatic and upland habitats. The reservoir is managed primarily for recreation and water storage, originally created by the construction of Eleven Mile Dam in the 1930s and opened as a state park in 1970. Key recreational opportunities include boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, camping, and winter snow sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The park's distinct granite outcroppings known as the ‘Eleven Mile Canyon’ cliffs provide notable scenic views and wildlife viewing spots. Visitors frequently enjoy the peaceful shoreline for picnics and photography. The park offers campgrounds with lake access, several trails ranging from easy lakeside strolls to moderate backcountry routes, and paddle sports rental facilities. Eleven Mile State Park attracts anglers seeking trophy-sized trout and is also renowned for its winter bald eagle watching. Overall, the park combines water-based recreation with mountain scenery, appealing to families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
