Scenic Drives
Gross Reservoir & Dam
Make the journey part of the adventure with a scenic drive to Gross Reservoir. Follow Flagstaff Road from Boulder for a mountain outing with time to enjoy the reservoir from the North Shore. Check current construction and access updates before heading out.
Gross Reservoir, Colorado
At A Glance
Fred Says
“We headed up through Coal Creek Canyon and came back along Flagstaff Road, taking in mountain views, beautiful pines and amazing plant life along the way.
I especially loved the rugged, curvy roads leading to the dam—the gravel, dirt and sharp bends made the drive feel like part of the adventure!
And that dam—its sheer size was something to see in person!
Take those curves slow and give yourself time to enjoy the scenery along the way.”
Why You’ll Love This Scenic Drive
The journey to Gross Reservoir & Dam is part of the adventure, with mountain views, beautiful pines and fascinating plant life along the way. Our outing took us through Coal Creek Canyon and back along Flagstaff Road, but the rugged, curvy roads leading to the dam were a personal favorite. Gravel and dirt sections added to the experience, with sharp bends that called for a slower pace.
Then there’s the dam itself—its sheer size made an impressive finish to the drive in. Seeing such a massive structure surrounded by rugged mountain scenery was a highlight of our outing. If you enjoy winding mountain roads and a destination that makes you stop and say “Wow,” this drive has plenty to love.
Scenic drive information—including road access, closures, conditions, fees, business hours and visitor rules—is subject to change. Always confirm current details with the responsible road agency and individual destinations before your visit.
Stops Along the Way
Make time for a little explorin’ along the way. Our outing took us through Coal Creek Canyon to Gross Reservoir & Dam, then back along Flagstaff Road toward Boulder. These suggested stops give you options for a meal, a walk or a scenic break—choose a few that fit your day.
Coal Creek Canyon Scenery
Enjoy the mountain views, pines and plant life as you make your way through the canyon. The rugged, winding roads leading toward the dam were a favorite part of our outing, including gravel and dirt sections with sharp curves. Take your time, and stop for photos only where parking is legal and you can pull completely clear of traffic.
Wondervu Cafe — Optional Coal Creek Canyon Detour
If you’d like to add a food stop, consider Wondervu Cafe on Highway 72 in Coal Creek Canyon. Depending on where you turn toward Gross Reservoir, visiting may mean continuing farther up the canyon and doubling back. Check its current hours and location before adding it to your route. Wondervu Cafe Information
Gross Reservoir — North Shore Picnic Area
Make the reservoir the centerpiece of your adventure, with a picnic break at the North Shore. Denver Water lists this area as open during construction, but access can change and parking can fill early on busy weekends. Check the latest project map before heading out. Gross Reservoir Recreation & Access Updates
Below the Dam — South Boulder Creek Outlet Trail
The dam’s sheer size was a highlight of our visit. If you’re considering exploring below it, Denver Water lists the South Boulder Creek Outlet Trail as an available recreation area, with periodic access restrictions. Confirm access before taking this side trip, and respect all construction closures and restricted areas around the dam. Check Below-Dam Access
Walker Ranch — A Hiking Stop Along Flagstaff Road
Trade some time behind the wheel for time on a trail at Walker Ranch. Choose a walk that fits your group and schedule, using the county’s trail map to plan your route. The full Walker Ranch Loop is 7.9 miles, so leave that option for a day when you have time for a longer hike. Dogs must remain leashed. Walker Ranch Trails & Visitor Information
Lost Gulch Overlook — Flagstaff Road
Add an overlook stop to your drive back toward Boulder at Lost Gulch. Leave time to enjoy the scenery before continuing down Flagstaff Road, and check the city’s visitor information for parking requirements and current conditions. Lost Gulch Overlook Information
Flagstaff Summit & Nature Center
Take the side road to Flagstaff Summit for picnic areas and access to nearby trails. When open, the Flagstaff Nature Center offers exhibits about local wildlife, plants, geology and history—a fitting stop after enjoying the scenery along your drive. Summit Road is seasonal, and the nature center has limited, volunteer-dependent hours. Check both before visiting, bring drinking water and review parking fees. Flagstaff Summit Information Flagstaff Nature Center Hours & Information
Historic Halfway House — Flagstaff Mountain
Add a little history to your drive with a stop at the Halfway House on Flagstaff Mountain. Its rustic stone walls, log beams and stone terrace make it a memorable photo stop. Outdoor picnic tables offer a place to take a break, and a short connecting trail leads to the Flagstaff Trail if you’d like to stretch your legs.
The building is available by reservation, so plan to appreciate the exterior and respect any private event underway. Check the city’s parking requirements before visiting.
Halfway House Visitor Information
Enjoy the Drive Back
Give the return along Flagstaff Road its own time. The mountain scenery and winding road are part of what makes this outing memorable, so keep the schedule relaxed and use designated parking areas whenever you stop to take it all in.
General Information
Road access, construction restrictions, weather conditions, parking and visitor facilities may change. Confirm current details with Denver Water and the managing agency for each stop before visiting.
Before You Go
Plan your route before heading out, and review the roads your navigation app selects. We drove to Gross Reservoir & Dam through Coal Creek Canyon and returned along Flagstaff Road toward Boulder. Download your map before leaving so you can refer to it without a cell signal.
Our drive to the dam included rugged gravel and dirt sections with sharp curves—one of our favorite parts of the adventure! Check your chosen route for unpaved roads, steep grades, and closures, and allow extra time to take the bends slowly. Always check the weather before departure and choose a route suited to your vehicle and comfort level.
Good idea to check Denver Water’s recreation updates and project map before visiting. Reservoir expansion work affects road access and recreation areas, including periodic restrictions below the dam. Follow posted signs and staff directions, and stay out of closed construction areas.
Bring water, snacks, an extra layer and sturdy shoes if you plan to explore on foot. Use designated parking areas for sightseeing stops, keep roads and driveways clear, and check hours before planning a meal or a visit to the Flagstaff Nature Center.
Bringing your four-legged explorer? Pack water and waste bags, and check pet rules at every stop. Denver Water requires dogs to remain leashed and prohibits pets from entering the reservoir. Take your trash with you and leave the scenery just as you found it.
Road conditions and business schedules can change. Confirm current details before visiting.
Check pet rules at individual stops.
Fred’s Photo Gallery
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THE SCENIC DRIVE
DAM & RESERVOIR
Fred’s Gear Picks
Your Explorin’ Journal
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