Omayra Acevedo, Colorado Rocky Mountains. I’m about to embark on yet another Colorado adventure. As I prepare for my next journey, I can’t help but reflect back on everything I’ve done since I met my dearest companion, Matthew. So much has happened to me in 2020. From the pandemic to going back to school, new-found friendships and general life experiences. Through the struggles, pain, tears, laughter, and the unknown, life sure has a way of keeping me going. As the sounds of the Lee Holdridge Orchestra fills my office with melodic memories, I find the corners of my mouth reaching to new heights.

It was merely three months ago when I found myself at the Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir. A manmade lake in Summit County, between Copper Mountain Resort and the town of Leadville, off of Highway 91. The gulch lies along the mountain road called the Top of the Rockies Byway. The gulch is a hotspot for anglers. Originally, the reservoir was built for mining, but it is now more commonly used to supplement local water supplies and winter snowmaking for nearby ski resorts. Colorado Parks and Wildlife also uses the dam as a site for Colorado’s only native trout species, the cutthroat trout. 

The Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir not only offers fishing opportunities, but a beautiful 2.5-mile hike with views of the Tenmile Range. With less than 600 feet of elevation gain, it is a quiet trail, suitable for all levels. How do you get there? Easy. From Nederland or Gilpin County, head west on I-70 and exit on 195 towards CO-91 South. Drive roughly eight minutes and 7.1 miles, then, look to your left. You can’t miss it. As always, I will remind you to bring ample water, food, a first aid kit, and of course, a camera. 

Whether it’s Summer, Autumn, Winter or Spring, Clinton Gulch offers a plethora of inspiration for the photographer, journalist, canvas artist, or a family longing to create an unforgettable memory. This is what I treasure about our colorful state. You don’t have to travel far to live memorable moments in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Between the awesome Coloradans willing to help, and the never-ending desire to explore, anyone can find rejuvenation, excitement and the opportunity to live again. I am beyond grateful to have experienced so much in so many ways; in the only true home I’ve ever known: Colorado. 

(Originally published in the January 14, 2021, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)