Ruedi Reservoir, Protected reservoir in White River National Forest, Colorado, United States
Ruedi Reservoir is an alpine lake held back by a dam in the Rocky Mountains, stretching across multiple counties in this high forest valley. The body of water is deep and holds significant water resources, fed by mountain streams and snowmelt.
The dam project was built in the 1960s to store water for the arid western side of the Continental Divide. This construction marked a significant shift in how water was managed across the entire region.
The water and surrounding landscape have shaped life in this region for generations. Visitors can see how the reservoir is woven into local daily life, from fishing to the boats that dot the surface.
The lake is open for various water sports during the warmer months, and boats must be inspected before use. The area is surrounded by hiking trails that provide access to quiet coves and viewpoints throughout the seasons.
A small power plant at the base of the dam generates electricity for nearby communities, showing how a dam serves multiple purposes. Many visitors are surprised to learn that recreation and energy production happen side by side here.
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