Eleven Mile State Park

Here is a massive recreation area based around Elevenmile Reservoir nestled on the eastern edge of the Continental Divide. The lake itself boasts a large area for boaters and kayakers to enjoy, as well as award winning fish waiting in the depths for enthusiastic anglers. The nearby Spinney Mountain park offers a wonderful lookout point for birdwatchers as well. Around the lake there are 335 campsites, including 52 electric sites, all along the banks and nestled up against trees and rock formations in the backcountry. Walking paths and bike trails are available as well, so there really is something for everyone here.

It's a perfect location to not only watch the sunset, but to bask in the last warmth of the day. Golden hour there is like nothing I have personally ever seen! The drive down is relaxing, just a two lane country road with all kinds of sights to behold, including lonely mountains, buffalo, and even antelope!

This is a great place to explore if you're passing through the Continental Divide. Perfect to slow down and enjoy the sounds of water lapping at the rocks; to bask on the banks and enjoy a book or let the kids run around and just be kids.

To get there:

- Drive 38 miles west of Colorado Springs on U.S. 24 to one mile west of the town of Lake George

- Turn left (south) on County Road 90 and drive for six miles to County Road 92

-Continue south on 92 for five miles to the park