Pinewood Reservoir Hike

Route Description for Pinewood Reservoir Hike

Grab your hiking shoes and fishing rod before venturing out to the Pinewood Reservoir Trail. The beauty of the Pinewood Reservoir is that it delivers several adventure possibilities: hike, bike, kayak, fish, snowshoe or canoe. The Pinewood Reservoir Area requires a day pass that is typically around $10USD and can be purchased at the kiosk on site. This area is a crowd-favorite and in the summer months the area can get busy! Consider camping at the Pinewood Lake Campground and make it a weekend-long adventure. Note that the path can be very muddy in the spring!

Walk along the shores of the lake, through meadows and into dense forests, I mean, what else could you ask for? The Pinewood Reservoir Trail travels through various quintessential Colorado terrains and has stunning vistas of the encompassing rolling hills. On your next adventure in the Loveland area, make sure you check out the Pinewood Reservoir Hike.

Begin your adventure along the Pinewood Reservoir Trail from the north end parking lot. From the carpark take the Besant Point Trail west along the shore and across a small, wooden bridge. Shortly after your departure you will encounter an intersection. At this point, veer right, and you will be diverted onto the Shoshone Trail. Hike up the path and it will lead you through some tree shade towards a viewpoint. The route will begin to curve south as you walk along the meadowed terrain to a lookout. Enjoy the sights of the rolling hills that surround you and the Pinewood Lake below. Notice Green Mountain in the East.

Enjoy the scenery before continuing your adventure. Track along the Shoshone Trail as it begins to gradually descend and guide you east below the trees. Maintain on the path until you confront the next junction. Here, turn right onto Besant Point Trail. This segment of the trail will guide you along the curves of Pinewood Lake’s shoreline. Enjoy the views of fisherman and kayakers enjoying the reservoir. Hike along the well-maintained path and track east over another small bridge. After crossing the bridge, you will meet your turn around point. At this point there are also public washroom facilities.

Turn around at the trail's end and retrace your steps along the shore’s edge. At the next intersection, stay straight on Besant Point Trail instead of heading back up into the woods to the viewpoint. This change of scenery will guide you back to the carpark, but instead along the shore. Continue walking the path and enjoy the sights of Colorado’s diverse landscapes that surround you. Trek along this route until you meet another junction, keep right and the path will deliver back to your car.

Trail Highlights

Pinewood Reservoir

Pinewood Reservoir is 100 acres of water surrounded by 327 acres of public land that was created in 1952. The Pinewood Reservoir sits at about 2,006 m in elevation and is a part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project. This project diverts water from the west side of the continental divide to the east for drinking water, irrigation and hydropower generation purposes. The reservoir's water levels frequently change based on the needs of the surrounding areas. Not only is this lake a means for industry use and infrastructure, but it is also a popular tourist destination. This wonderful reservoir is encompassed by a recreation area that is heavily frequented in the summer months. The Pinewood Reservoir is a popular destination for trout fishing, and kayaking, but swimming motorized boats are prohibited. Families and fishermen alike frequent Pinewood Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in Pinewood Reservoir?

No, swimming is prohibited in Pinewood Lake.

Can you Paddleboard on Pinewood Reservoir?

Yes, hand-launched rafts, like canoes, kayaks, paddleboard, and wind boards are allowed on the Pinewood Lake’s waters.