162 Fisherhawk Lane

Trout Lake was originally a natural lake that was dammed in the late 1800's to hold more water for the newly developed Ames Hydro Electric Power plant near Ophir Colorado.

The Ames plant was the first AC power facility in the country and was part of the heated "war of the currents" between Thomas Edison (DC current advocate), George Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla (AC current advocates). As AC current is easier to connect over longer distances and was able to impress the right people in the mining industry, it won the war and is what the United States primarily uses today.  Trout Lake was also a popular stopping place for the Rio Grande Southern Railroad (RGS) which began in the 1890's with routes to Telluride, Rico and Dolores Colorado. The water tank used by the train to fill the boiler is still sitting next to the lake to this day and many of the roads around the lake are part of the original rail bed. The "Galloping Goose" which was more of a diesel powered truck on tracks was used for years here for shorter trips hauling passengers, small freight and mail to and from the mining towns. Back in the late 1800's through the early 1950's the train was the best and fastest way through the mountains.

Now Trout Lake is a scenic mountain retreat with cabins summer homes and trails leading into the mountains. Fishing is fairly good here and you have a chance to catch Rainbow, Cutthroat and Brown trout. Small boats are allowed but must maintain a wakeless speed at all times. Overnight Parking, Camping and fires are not allowed at the lake but nearby Priest Lake Campground does.