7800 Elevation

Note - In Year 2000, Manitou Lake was drained (it had silted full) and as of the end of 2002 the lake is still empty. It's still a scenic spot and the lake bottom is now a grassy field with a creek running through. But it's also still a state park with an entrance fee.

Most of the trails in the Pike National Forest are a little rough. But for those who'd like an easy stroll in a beautiful location this is the perfect spot. The quarter mile lake and picnic area make a great place for families with little kids or those who'd just like to take it easy for an afternoon.

The big green valley north of Woodland Park is called Manitou Park, and this lake is in the middle of it. The park has a four dollar fee, which helps keep the crowds down and pays for maintenance. The same ticket is also good at Elevenmile Canyon.

Once in the gate, you can turn left to picnic at the creek, or right to park near the lake. The lake sites are a little more lively with bigger groups, fishermen and kids playing games. The creek sites are in the trees and a little more secluded.

Either way, plan on seeing plenty of fishermen. The lake is stocked and I've seen some pretty big ones pulled from the water. The dam is about 15 feet high and so the lake has deep fishing on one end and marsh fishing at the inlet. Canoes commonly cruse the lake which is a fun activity for kids, or a handy way for the fishermen to get away from the shoreline crowd.

Picnic tables are scattered around the west side of the lake, and a pavillion can be reserved by the bigger groups. Playground equipment is near the pavillion to give kids something to do rather than play at the lakeshore. A nearby rock formation is part of the Red Rock formation that's more extensive across the road.

This is one of the prettiest locations in the region, a small lake in a big green meadow with scattered trees, surrounded by mountains and forest. Looking at the lake from the dam is a view straight up the valley with Pikes Peak towering over the southern end. In the opposite direction is Devils Head 20 miles away and Mount Deception towers over the east side of the lake.

The trail that circles the lake is a leisurly footpath that's also used by an occasional bike. East of the lake it drifts through a grove a trees, away from the lake, then crosses the marshy inlet on a raised boardwalk.

To get to Manitou Lake, head north from Woodland Park on Highway 67. After about 7.5 miles is the big sign and entrance on the right. Note that in year 2000, the lake has been drained and is now a mud flat.