Lake/Pond/Reservoir, High Mountain

Location: Archuleta Lake

Elevation: 12200

Commonly Caught Species: Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, Cutthroat Trout

Restrictions: Must have Colorado Fishing License to fish.

Fishing Method: Flyfishing, Boat, Spin Fishing

Seasonal Accessibility: Late Spring/Summer/Fall

Access: HorseBack, Hike

Driving Directions: From the city of South Fork, travel west on US Highway 160 for 11 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 410 and travel west to Big Meadows Reservoir. Take the right fork below the Reservoir to the Boat Ramp. Park here to access the trailhead.

Hiking Directions: The trail leaves from the Big Meadows boat launching area. Travels approximately 7 Miles along Archuleta Creek and the South Fork of the Rio Grande River, and joins the Continental Divide Trail at Archuleta Lake. It is a gentle trail and quite scenic along the lower end as it follows the South Fork of the Rio Grande River. The trail then climbs much more steeply. Much of the trail along this upper portion passes through Spruce and Fir stands and the views are intermittent until Archuleta Lake is reached.

Handicap Accessible: Yes

Forest Service Info:: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recreation/fishi

4 acres of water; slow fishing; located in wilderness area

See some wonderful photos on this blog:  http://poppypundit.wordpress.com/my-colorado-adventure-2007/