Pineview Reservoir | Ogden

Information

Landmark: Pineview Reservoir
City: Ogden
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Pineview Reservoir, Ogden, USA Utah, North America

Pineview Reservoir is a man-made lake located in Ogden Canyon, Utah, USA. It serves as a primary water source for the surrounding communities.

Visual Characteristics

The reservoir's surface water color varies from deep blue to greenish-blue depending on depth and sediment load. The shoreline is characterized by a mix of gravelly beaches and rocky outcrops. Surrounding vegetation consists of mixed conifer forests and scrub oak, with elevations reaching approximately 4,850 feet (1,478 meters) above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

Pineview Reservoir is situated approximately 8 miles east of Ogden, Utah. Access is via Utah State Route 39 (Ogden Canyon Road). Several parking areas are available along the reservoir's perimeter, including designated lots at the dam and various access points. Public transport options are limited; the closest bus route terminates in Ogden, requiring onward travel by private vehicle or taxi.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The reservoir was created by the construction of the Pineview Dam, completed in 1958. The dam's primary purpose is water storage for municipal, industrial, and agricultural use in Weber County. The reservoir occupies a valley carved by glacial activity and subsequent erosion.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include boating (motorized and non-motorized), fishing for species such as rainbow trout and black crappie, swimming, and shoreline picnicking. Designated areas facilitate kayaking and paddleboarding. Hiking trails are present on the surrounding hillsides.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at several access points, including the dam area. Shaded picnic tables are provided in designated zones. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available but can be intermittent in canyon areas. Limited food vendors may operate seasonally near popular access points; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer optimal lighting conditions. The best months for general recreation are May through September, with water temperatures suitable for swimming from June to August. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that during periods of extreme drought, the reservoir's water level can reveal remnants of the original valley floor, including old fence posts and foundations from a time before the dam's construction.