Through extensive public outreach, the Authority established a conceptual master plan (PDF) in 2016. Future recreational opportunities may include soft-surface trails and non-motorized watercraft. The reservoir will only be open for recreation Fridays through Mondays year round.
Spring and summer water recreation at Rueter-Hess Reservoir will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Come out to paddleboard, kayak, canoe, or windsurf. All watercraft will be inspected and should be clean and dry before entering. Make your reservations today!
Winter hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. During the colder months land based activities are available and shoreline fishing will continue until ice forms on the reservoir.
The Incline features 132 steps and the Rosie Rueter Trail loop that leads to and from the parking lot is just over a mile long. This trail connects to the Coyote Run Loop trail that continues along and under Hess Road and loops down by the reservoir.
Catch and release fishing from shore or from the water at Rueter-Hess Reservoir will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Reservations for fishing are required for both adult and youth anglers. There are only a limited number each day. During the cooler months shoreline fishing continues until ice forms on the reservoir.
