Tucked just a short walk from popular western U.S. ski destination Breckenridge, Colorado, Sawmill Reservoir is a serene lake surrounded by mountains that offers a lovely little escape into nature. Sitting nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, this 10-acre reservoir is surrounded by the majestic White River National Forest, and the place to go for amazing views of the numbered peaks making up the Ten Mile Range. The reservoir is easy to get to from either the Snowflake Trailhead near town or from the ski lift at Breckenridge Ski Resort.
Sawmill Reservoir is a hotspot for fishing, where anglers can snag rainbow and brown trout. You’ll need a Colorado fishing license, which costs about $43 for residents (annual pass), while a day pass for non-residents is about $20. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the water, and many also explore via kayak or canoe. The calm, clear waters reflect the surrounding trees and mountains, creating a postcard-worthy setting for a paddleboard adventure or a quiet afternoon relaxing by the shore. Visitors should also keep their eyes peeled for local wildlife, like deer, moose, or foxes.
The reservoir is close enough to Breckenridge’s Main Street for visitors to easily combine a morning hike — there’s a 1.3 mile trail that loops around the lake — with an afternoon exploring the town’s shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Whether you’re after a day of fishing, want to take a dip in the water, or just enjoy birding with a gorgeous mountain backdrop, Sawmill Reservoir is the perfect hidden spot in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
Enjoy the seasons at Sawmill Reservoir
Sawmill Reservoir is open year-round, although the hiking trail may be impassible during winter, depending on snowfall. In the summer, the area comes alive with blooming wildflowers, making it an ideal time for hiking, fishing, and planning a picnic surrounded by nature. The well-maintained trails give you easy access to the reservoir, and the surrounding forests offer shade from the sun if you want to rest. Breckenridge is also one of the best places for spring skiing in the US, offering the best of both worlds.
Autumn is the time for leaf-peeping, with gold and crimson foliage creating an amazing scene for photographers and nature lovers. The crisp air makes fall a perfect time to visit for anyone wanting to enjoy sweater weather in the natural areas surrounding Breckenridge. It’s also when the town rolls out popular fall festivals like Oktoberfest and the Breckenridge Film Festival.
Winter and spring blankets the area in snow, giving snow bunnies plenty of opportunities for winter sports like snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding. Visitors can even book a dog sledding tour through Good Times, where you can mush through the snow with your own pack of furry guides. The reservoir itself may be frozen, but that just adds to the still beauty of the season. No matter the time of year, Sawmill Reservoir offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts with easy access to all the fun of Breckenridge.
Exploring Breckenridge, Colorado
