The fall colors are promising to be spectacular in Northwest Colorado. Freeman Reservoir has been a favorite place for the locals to take in the colors for years! This trip is a very easy half-day trip for those wishing to capture the beautiful color changing, or overnight stay for those wishing to really explore the area. Do take precautions and be aware of hunting activity that may be happening in the area as well.

To get there: Go north 13 miles from Craig on Colorado Highway 13. Take C.R. 11, a distance of 9 miles to the Routt National Forest’s reservoir site.

County Road 11 winds up 9 miles to the Freeman Reservoir site and offers fantastic fall foliage views; however, be cautious of other drivers and sharp, winding curves. A great fishing hole, with native cutthroat trout, awaits the angler here.

You will pass the Sherman Youth Camp and Recreation Area on your way up. The youth camp is a great place, offering group camping and a gathering place for organizational outings, weddings, family reunions, hunting parties and more. Call 970-824-5517 for reservation information.

The Freeman Reservoir campground is located near the end of the road at the 17-acre reservoir site. There are 18 campsites with both pull-through and back-in sites, vault toilets, potable water and garbage services. Near the campground is a picnic area and boat ramp. Fishing is available but no motor-propelled watercraft, including electric or internal combustion engines, are permitted. Bring your own firewood. The campground offers horse trailer parking as well as corrals for overnight stays.

This area accesses several mountain bike, horse and hiking trails! The 3.5-mile Black Mountain hiking trail to the 10,800-foot summit is an easy climb offering sensational views of the Yampa Valley and into Utah and Wyoming. The Sawmill Creek campground is accessible from here and offers dispersed camping. Please pack out what you pack in. There are no restroom or water services at this campground.

Plan ahead and be prepared. Be sure to have current fishing licenses and obey limits. Be prepared for possible hunting activity in the area. Charge your camera batteries and enjoy Moffat County’s hidden treasures!

For more information, contact the Moffat County Tourism Association at 970-824-2335 or 866-332-8436, or http://www.visitmoffatcounty.com.