Ridgway Reservoir, body of water

Ridgway Reservoir is a large lake in Ouray County, Colorado, surrounded by the San Juan Mountains and stretching about five miles across. The site features a dam that controls water flow, hiking trails, camping areas, and spaces for water activities and outdoor recreation throughout the park.

The lake was created by Ridgway Dam, begun in the late 1970s and completed by the late 1980s. This structure arose as part of the Dallas Creek Project to support irrigation and prevent flooding, allowing the region to store water for farms and towns.

The reservoir is held back by Ridgway Dam, built between 1978 and 1987 as part of the Dallas Creek Project, and the lake first filled in 1990. The water is managed for irrigation of the Uncompahgre Valley and for flood control. Recreation at the lake is organized through Ridgway State Park, which borders the water.

Ridgway State Park surrounds the reservoir on the Uncompahgre River north of the town of Ridgway. Access is from U.S. Highway 550; the dam and lake lie in Ouray County, Colorado. Boating, camping, hiking and picnicking take place within the park, and the reservoir stores water released for irrigation of the Uncompahgre Valley.

The lake serves as an important stop for migrating birds such as ducks and geese seeking food and rest during their journeys. This role as a bird resting area makes the site a special habitat within the broader landscape.