– Trail Canyon Reservoir is located on Rock Creek in the White Mountains, Inyo National Forest of western Esmeralda County. The reservoir was originally constructed to water livestock and supply water for small mining operations. In the early 1990s, the dam’s spillway was rebuilt by volunteers, which allowed the reservoir to maintain a deeper pool and to better support fish.
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- Region
- Southern
- County
- Esmeralda
- Type of water
- Lake or Reservoir
Pertinent Information
Trail Canyon is a small reservoir approximately 1.5 surface acres with a maximum depth of about 20 feet. The shoreline is lined with dense vegetation in places, but there is adequate access for shore angling. The pond is fed by spring flow and surface flows from Rock Creek, and water quality is usually very good. Rainbow trout are stocked, with the best fishing generally from May through October, although late July and August can be slow. Fly-fishing, throwing small spinners, or using baits such as salmon eggs or Power Bait can be effective. There are no improved campsites, but camping is allowed at primitive sites within the Inyo National Forest. Road access is best in late spring through fall, but may become inaccessible in the winter because of snowfall. Access to this area via the Chiatovich Creek Road is no longer possible due to private land closures.