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Where to Go Beaver Creek – Below Skaguay Reservoir

Beaver Creek is one of the most beautiful streams to fish! It is a sizable stream year-round. Its headwaters reach to the top of Pikes Peak. The section below Skaguay Reservoir is a long, gentle meadow that runs almost 3 miles before it drops into an untamed, un-trailed, harsh canyon that few venture into. The meadow section does receive more adventurers because of its beauty, easy access, and fishing opportunities. Beyond the meadow, the stream is flanked more closely by trees. As you continue further the trail will cross over to the opposite side of the stream, and shortly beyond are some beaver ponds. This is popular fishing, hiking, backpacking area so you will see a number of people on the trail, especially on the weekends. This is a great place to take kids and beginner flyfishers with runs, pools, and an ample supply of Cutthroat Trout.

Accessibility: This is an easy-to-get-to area. When you arrive at Skaguay Reservoir, stay on the upper road to park, as the trail is accessed from there, above the dam. The hike down from the trailhead to the stream is somewhat steep initially, then pretty flat with gentle ups/downs the rest of the way. The longer the hike, the better the fishing as fewer people will have hiked in. The trail is wide and the hike is easy. At one point you'll hit a Y in the trail - stay lower, near the stream, or you'll end up on private property and backtrack.

Elevation:

Distance: 50.1 miles from Colorado Springs / 1.5 hours (1 hour dirt road) .

Season: This area fishes well Spring, Summer and Fall

Fly patterns: Hopper patterns, Elk Hair Caddis, Amy’s Ant, Yellow Humpies, Beadhead droppers.

Fish species: Brook Trout, Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout

Fishing Regulations: Standard Colorado

Techniques & Tips: Dries and dry/droppers in most cases. Fishing is best the further you hike, so you may want to hike for an hour or so and then begin fishing upstream as you work your way back. These fish have seen plenty of people so stealth is more important and lighter tippet is a good idea. Some larger fish can be found in some of the deeper pools.

Camping: Is allowed

Kids: Yes, this is a great area to take kids.

Additional Information: This is an open range area, so it is possible to see cattle on or near the trail. Take your camera because you will definitely want to take pictures of the gorgeous views. Bald eagles are sometimes seen in the area. Be aware of building storms, because they can come quickly and be severe. It is usually best to arrive and fish in the morning, have lunch, and be heading back after lunch during the summer storm season.

Directions - 48.7 Miles - 1 Hour 12 Minutes

  1. Head south on S 21st St toward US-24 W
  2. Continue on US-24 W/W Hwy 24 to Teller County
  3. Take Co Rd 81 and Skaguay Rd to Co Rd 863