Summer fun at Jordanelle Reservoir

06.12.08 by Kendall Card

Jordanelle Reservoir, located just 10 minutes from Park City, is one of the more scenic reservoirs in the Wasatch Mountains. Large enough to accommodate recreational boaters, fisherman, and plenty of shoreline adventure it’s a popular local destination. It wasn’t until 1995 when the reservoir finally reached maximum depth that it opened for recreational use. Within the past couple of years it has really come into it’s own.

Deer Valley just beyond the Jordanelle Reservoir

There are two access points to the water’s edge – one being the Jordanelle State Park which is in the distance of the image above and the other access point is the Rock Cliff Recreational Area on the eastern edge where the upper Provo River drains into the reservoir.

Rock Cliff Recreational Area

Rock Cliff Recreation Site is located two miles west of Francis on SR-32. There is a Nature Center as well as plenty of day use facilities. Unique to the area is an elevated boardwalk and trail that goes through the aspens. If you’re camping, you may find the hot showers and full service restrooms a plus.

Looking south into the Heber Valley from above the Jordanelle Reservoir

If you’re looking for an adventurous hike then the Perimeter Trail is for you. It leads from Rock Cliff on the northern side of the arm of the lake and heads west. Be ready for lots of ups and downs and I’d recommend plenty of water and food. If you have all day and plenty of energy you may make it to the Jordanelle State Park, although the trail terminates near highway 248 near the new Deer Mountain development.

Jordanelle State Park

Access for the Jordanelle State Park is from US Highway 40 at the Mayflower exit. There are many services available at the park including camping, day use, boat launch and lots of beach front to explore.

Jordanelle Reservoir has good fishing. Species include rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and small mouth bass. According to Utah.com a “population of brown trout produced in Provo River, is expanding in the reservoir”. The variety of fish and the cool summer temperatures make for a great fishing and overall water recreation location.

- here is another Jordanelle Reservoir resource

One Response to “Summer fun at Jordanelle Reservoir”

  1. Tristan says:

    Jordanelle Lake has filled to capacity thanks to record snowfall. For those disappointed with previous years shallow water line, you can expect fantastic conditions with the very full lake offereing easy loading on the boat ramps. The campgrounds are also near the waters edge as originally designed.

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