Road trip guide: Conquering the Stillwater Reservoir
Stillwater Reservoir is a scenic alpine lake at an elevation of 3.143m (10,311ft) above the sea level, located in northeast Garfield County, in the U.S. state of Colorado.
Located in the heart of the Flat Tops, within the Routt National Forest, southwest of Yampa, the road to the reservoir is unpaved. It’s called Forest Road 900 (FDR 900). It’s closed to wheeled motorized vehicles from November to June. At this elevation, winter comes early and stays late on this trail, so you may only be able to safely run it in the middle of the summer. The road is good (although washboard) for all vehicles in dry conditions. A 4wd may be needed early or late season.
Starting from Yampa (in Routt County) the remote road is 26.39km (16.4 miles) long. Stillwater Reservoir is the last of the three reservoirs located on the road. It offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping. There is a fairly large parking lot at the end of the road.
Pic: Michelle Croskey