North Slope Recreation Area Trail Closures

South Catamount Reservoir will undergo rehabilitation of its dam in 2024-2025, which will impact some recreation activities in the area. South Catamount is one of three reservoirs owned and operated by Colorado Springs Utilities in the North Slope Recreation Area (NSRA) of Pikes Peak. The dam structure, constructed in 1936, requires a major rehabilitation project to enhance its safety and performance. Project work includes resurfacing of its steel face and replacement of dam infrastructure.

What to expect during construction:

The reservoir is drawn down and will be closed to the public for the 2024-2025 seasons.

Construction work will begin October 2023. The reservoir is scheduled to re-open to the public for the 2026 season. Vehicle and hiking access from Pikes Peak Highway to North Catamount Reservoir will not available starting Oct. 16, 2023 due to construction activity. Hiking access will be available to North Catamount Reservoir from area trails, but is subject to construction project planning. See the map for area trail closures. It is necessary to create safety perimeters around the lowered reservoir and construction work zones. For your safety, please respect posted signs that prohibit foot and vehicle traffic in the area. Crystal Creek Reservoir will be open for public recreation during the 2024-2025 seasons. Permits for commercially guided activities are not available for the 2024-2025 seasons. Recreational uses of the reservoirs in the NSRA, including South Catamount, are managed by Pikes Peak America’s Mountain, an enterprise of the City of Colorado Springs.

If you have questions about this project, please email engage@csu.org or call (719) 668-7765.