Rueter-Hess Reservoir offers a tranquil outdoor escape for paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking with well-maintained trails and a viewpoint atop a hill. Visitors should plan ahead as reservations and fees are required, with strict regulations to protect the water resource and fishery.
What to Expect:
🛶 Paddleboard and kayak-friendly waters
🎣 Catch-and-release fishing with reservation
🚶 Scenic hiking trails including the Coyote Loop
🌄 Hilltop viewpoint with stunning vistas
Important Information:
– Reservation and pre-registration required
– Entry fee typically $10 per vehicle
– No swimming, motorboats, or swimming allowed
– Life jackets mandatory on paddleboards and kayaks
– Dogs restricted from shoreline and water
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🛶 Gear Rentals Onsite: Surf Sup Colorado offers convenient paddleboard and kayak rentals right at the reservoir.
🎣 Fishing Rules Strict: Catch-and-release fishing requires reservations and use of barbless, artificial lures only.
🚶 Explore Coyote Loop: Hikers recommend this accessible trail for lovely views around the reservoir.
⚠️ Reserve in Advance: Day-of parking and entry purchases are not allowed; book online before arriving.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Rueter-Hess Reservoir is appreciated for its peaceful paddleboarding and scenic hiking trails, with many praising the staff and uncrowded setting. However, repeated concerns about strict regulations, high fees, limited fishing access, and restrictive dog policies detract from the experience for some visitors.
Last updated on
November 9th, 2025
