Barker Reservoir Trail

Barker Reservoir is located next to the town of Nederland, Colorado. It’s a manmade reservoir that was completed in 1910 and provides water for a hydroelectric power plant. Although fishing is probably the most popular activity here, you can also hike a mellow path that traverses alongside the reservoir’s northern shore.

The trail actually begins right from the downtown area of Nederland. You’ll cross Middle Boulder Creek via a cute covered pedestrian bridge, then parallel the creek for a while.

You’ll cross the creek one more time as you near Barker Reservoir. The trail then skirts near the narrow western end of the reservoir before coming to a popular reservoir access point with parking and picnic tables.

The trail then follows the northern shore of the reservoir, between the water line and Boulder Canyon Drive. You’ll have great views of the reservoir as you hike along, but unfortunately the noise from the road is also audible.

The trail ends a bit before Barker Dam, but you can walk along the shoulder of the road if you want to go check out the dam.

Otherwise, this is the turnaround point. Return the way you came.