“ One can do anything from biking to hiking, swimming to archery, camping to cookouts, fishing to horseback riding in/over expansive trails, reservoir/lakes… Even if you are only visiting Denver, you can find many nearby hiking trails that will take you to some outstanding scenery. 1. To rent boats, paddleboards, or kayaks head to the local marina. The reservoir stays open year-round. From the trailhead, follow the trail past Lower Ice Lake, which is a spectacular destination in itself. Pro Tip: Rocky Mountain National Park and the north/south stretch from Boulder to Fort Collins are two areas with the most lakes in the state. Cherry Creek Reservoir. Whether you are into boating or fishing or just absorbing all the natural beauty, this list checks out some of the very best lakes in Colorado. happiestoutdoors.ca. Or you can take a boat out and fish from the surface. Video and descriptions of some of the best Alpine Lakes in Colorado.Be sure to Subscribe as I have many more best of videos on the way. You rent various kinds of boats here, as well as stand up paddleboards. May 20, 2017 - Only In Your State is one of the world's leading travel and culture website with writers in all 50 U.S. states. Near Gunnison in western Colorado, Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado's largest body of water, although it is not a natural lake. Includes many of the states 14ers and countless more. It also has cabins and yurt rentals, even in winter. Your lake vacation is sure to be grand in Colorado. Moderately difficult with a 692-foot elevation gain, the hike is best in summer and early fall - by November the trail will be snow-covered. This lake is very popular for fishing and water” more. Written in an engaging way. There’s Something Incredible About These 14 Rivers In Colorado Can we all just take a moment to acknowledge the fact that Colorado is by far the most beautiful state in the country? Colorado is home to hundreds of lakes populated with trout, though most anglers targeting trout choose to fish in Colorado's streams and rivers; 168 miles of Colorado streams have been designated by the Colorado Wildlife Commission as "gold medal" trout fishing water. It can actually get quite crowded June through August on weekends, when Colorado residents come from the cities to stay in its high alpine camp sites and cabins or make use of the RV hookups. 1024 x 768 jpeg 231kB. There are also opportunities for fly fishing on many of the surrounding creeks or the Colorado River. Hike to Chasm Lake. This list showcases some of the best lake rentals Colorado has to offer. The trail is just 2.2 miles out and back and starts at the Bear Lake trailhead. Little Molas Lake, located in the southwest corner of Colorado in the San Juan National Forest between Durango and Silverton, is a primitive campground that offers spectacular views of the glistening water and the surrounding jagged peaks of Snowdon, Grand Turk, Engineer and Twin Sister. Twin Lakes. Created in 1950, when the Granby Dam was built, it is the third largest body of water in Colorado, with 40 miles of shoreline. ... these lakes … There are lots of Gold Medal waters for catching trophy-sized fish, along with jaw-dropping views […] But the best lake towns aren’t just about relaxation – that’s why we’re also featuring locales with plenty of adventure, both on the water and on land. The area around the lake is popular with hikers in summer and snowmobilers in winter. Colorado's second largest natural lake, Lake San Cristobal outside of Lake City, shimmers like reflective glass, especially in the early morning or at sunset, when the mountains and colors playing across the sky are mirrored in it. Right after ice out is normally excellent. Just five miles outside the town of Granby, Lake Granby is right on the Colorado River and also right by Grand Lake. Difficulty. 1. Colorado in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Denver, 14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Colorado Springs, CO, 16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Colorado, USA, 9 Best Cheap Ski Resorts in Colorado, 2021, 11 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Colorado, 12 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado, 2021, 16 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in the World, 2021, 11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Boulder, CO, Where to Stay in Boulder: Best Areas & Hotels, Where to Stay in Denver: Best Areas & Hotels, From Denver to Vail: 5 Best Ways to Get There, From Dubai to Abu Dhabi: 5 Best Ways to Get There, 19 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 11 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, visiting Denver, you can find many nearby hiking trails. There is also the backcountry Battle Mountain campsite a few miles from the lake. Paddleboard on the shore of Horsetooth Reservoir at dusk. Share. Aspen trees reflected in Lake San Cristobal. 10. The 87 hectare lake it set amongst some of the most magnificent scenery in the entire Teton Range. The largest natural lake in the state, Grand Lake is a fishing enthusiasts’ dream, tucked in the heart of the Rockies near the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Twin Lakes, located in Leadville, Colorado, are two naturally formed glacial lakes with the beautiful backdrop of Colorado’s highest mountain peak, Mount Elbert. The Rocky Mountain State is home to 6,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers as well as some 2,000 reservoirs and lakes. The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. This is a good time to photograph the lake as well. Popular Colorado Lakes. One of the best fishing lakes in Colorado, Lake Granby is stocked with trout and kokanee salmon. These brilliant blue alpine lakes near Silverton are considered to be some of Colorado’s most beautiful. 800 x 600 jpeg 100kB. It is a ten-mile long lake with a surface area of 4470 acres and fifty miles of shoreline. One of the most spectacular lakes inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Two Rivers Lake is at the headwaters of Mill Creek just below the Continental Divide. Car and Tent camping - $17. 1,729 Reviews. Created in 1950, when the Granby Dam was built, it is the third largest body of water in Colorado, with 40 miles of shoreline. There is also good fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, rainbow trout, and walleye, among other species, from the fishing dock or by following the Boulder Reservoir Loop Trail to find a quiet spot of your own. You can also rent pontoon boats from Rocky Mountain Paddleboard and spend the day fishing and chilling on the lake. Lake Grandby has two sister lakes… Lather up with sunscreen and bring your umbrellas every summer for swimming at Colorado’s best beaches. Gaining 987 feet in elevation, the hike is moderately strenuous and is best undertaken between June and October, when the snow has mostly melted. These towns remain Colorado’s most-visited destinations to this day: after the silver rush faded to more of a dull gray, the state’s coffers relied instead on tourism, craft beer, and – most recently – weed. Colorado’s avid sun worshippers’ think there’s nowhere better to work on your tan and capture some much-needed R-and-R. Take a dip in these or other Colorado lakes, find lakeside lodging or learn about places to fish. The Chatfield Reservoir, also known as Chatfield lake, was created by the Army Corps in 1966 to help control flooding in the area. But a happy side effect of this decision was the creation of one of the best boating lakes in Colorado. Grand Lake. © Copyright 2020 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Salmon and Willow Lakes is no exception. 1. Trappers Lake Trappers Lake near Meeker, CO. Photo: John. 21 Best Watering Holes and Swimming Spots in Colorado - 303 Magazine. If you're looking for water sports and swimming, then Colorado's numerous reservoirs are often where to head, especially on hot summer days. Salmon and Willow Lakes in the Gore Range. There is plenty to do, including a swimming beach and area, fishing, boating, and hiking in the surrounding mountains. The Chatfield Reservoir, also known as Chatfield lake, was created by the Army Corps in 1966 to help control flooding in the area. In winter there is ice fishing, as well as nordic skiing around the lake. From short day hikes close to the city to multi-day backpacking trips deep in Rocky Mountain National Park, these adventures will take you to some of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Colorado. Price. Uncover Colorado - Vacations, Travel & Tourism | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer, 10 Stunning State Parks around the Denver Metro, 7 Fun Places to Stand Up Paddle Board in Colorado, Canyons Of The Ancients Visitor Center & Museum, How D.I.A.’s Murals Feed Conspiracy Theorist, 10 Wonderful Winter Vacation Spots in Colorado, Quick Guide to the Best Neighborhoods in Denver, Comfy Cabins to Rent near Boulder, Lyons and Nederland. Like many other lakes in the county, it is only accessible on foot by hiking along the Bradley Lake Trail. Best Lakes in Colorado 1. There are also opportunities for water sports like waterskiing and wakeboarding. Hike to Chasm Lake While at the lake, grab lunch at Pappy's Restaurant, which has a picturesque location facing the lake. Colorado Outdoors: Nature lovers can find a world of opportunities for adventures in this beautiful state. The lake is stocked with a variety of trout, and you can fish from any of the public access points along the shoreline. Although Colorado has some of the best fishing locations in the U.S., some of its streams, lakes, and reservoirs have been overfished throughout the years. There are plenty of lodging options in the nearby towns of Grand Lake and Granby. In early October, when the aspen trees surrounding Crater Lake are turning golden, the scenery is even more brilliant. Colorado’s avid sun worshippers’ think there’s nowhere better to work on your tan and capture some much-needed R-and-R. Take a dip in these or other Colorado lakes, find lakeside lodging or learn about places to fish. Meeker, and Mount Lady Washington. Bathrooms. On a clear day, the lake is like mirrored glass, and you can see 12,129-foot Notchtop Mountain reflected in the shallow basin. More filters (1) Clear filters. Factor in that the trailhead is only a reasonable 2.5 hours away from Denver, and what you have is one of the finest weekend Skewing toward easy and moderate trails, it should be easy to find the perfect experience for any experience level. Piney Lake near Vail. 1. The best time to fish the lake is early and late in the season. In Rocky Mountain National Park, Dream Lake is positively dreamy in the early morning, when the rising sun turns it pink and purple. Colorado boaters have an overwhelming amount of options when it comes to finding a place to launch their boats and hit the water. The entire state is above 3,000 feet, so you’ll combine the incredible fishing with stunning views. If you live in Colorado or plan on moving to the centennial state, there are a number of lakes to explore. Alternatively, you can simply relax at your campsite, enjoy the company of friends, and relax in one of the best outdoor playgrounds that the state has to offer. Stand up paddleboarding on Steamboat Lake. Covering 20 miles and boasting 96 miles of shoreline, Blue Mesa is a lot of fun in summer. Let’s look at five of the best lakes in Colorado to live on. Best Lakes in Colorado Springs, CO. On its north shore is located the historic town of Grand Lake. Best lake trails in Colorado 174,250 Reviews Explore the most popular lake trails in Colorado with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Best Summit Hikes in Colorado – A guidebook outlining the 80 best summit hikes in Colorado! It's hard to pick the very best lakes in Colorado when the state is home to more than 4,000 bodies of water, both natural and manmade. This huge Colorado lake is perfect for fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, or even yachting. Directions. It is also a popular recreation area, with 26.8 miles of shoreline that is close to the ski resorts of Keystone and Breckenridge. You can fish from boats or from the shore and there are also hiking and cycling trails around the lake itself. The trailhead is north of the town of Silverthorne, 7 miles on Colorado … The lake is at an elevation of 2,142 metres above sea level near the terminus of Garnet Canyon. Community Sailing of Colorado offers sailing classes and rentals if this is something you'd like to try. In summer, you can drive between it and Estes Park on the other side via Trail Ridge Road, which is the highest paved road in the US. Grand Lake, Colorado Grand Lake . Think sightseeing cruises, tubing, and kayaking, or vineyard tours, hiking, and waterfront restaurants. If the view of a couple massive, majestic mountains hanging over the lake wasn't enough, you are also provided with a grand view of the tallest peak in all of Colorado right behind you. In October, when the leaves are changing colors, it is absolutely breathtaking. Once you reach the lake, there is good fishing for trout. These can be purchased online in advance. With scenery like this, one would think that they’d have to go on an enormous thru-hike; alas, this trail is only 7 miles roundtrip. “ Bear Creek Lake Park is an amazing place to get away and offers miles of trails, scenic views, a Swim Beach, Paddle Boarding, picnic tables and more. You will need a Colorado fishing license, however. Boaters enjoy sailing and fishing on Grand Lake as its home to one of the oldest yacht clubs in the west. Waterskiing is also allowed here. The most easily accessible campsite on this list, this campsite also offers the best view on this list. One of the best lakes in Colorado to live on is Lake Granby. Blue Mesa Reservoir and the Dillon Pinnacles. 1. One of the best lakes in Colorado to live on is Lake Granby. Only In Your State was launched in March 2015 with the goal of connecting passionate people and discovering the best of what each state in the U.S. has to offer. Bradley Lake gets fewer visitors then many others in the park, making it quite peaceful. Therefore, it is important to check the conditions of various fishing locations before traveling to a favorite fishing spot. Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the United States. It’s rugged, remote, and beautiful. Head to the Grand Lake Marina if you are planning to explore the lake by boat. There are also picnic tables. The following is a partial alphabetical list of lakes and reservoirs in the U.S. State of Colorado. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, there are over 2,000 lakes and reservoirs, offering a span of major boating opportunities.From wide-ranging reservoirs to small mountain lakes, there is an option for everyone. Grand Lake The largest natural lake in Colorado sits outside the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park in a town of the same name, with a boardwalk, marina and lots of family fun and events each year. Read more: Best things to do in Colorado. Close to Lake Estes is the Murphy's Resort, with a 3.5 mile hiking trail around the lake for a gorgeous walk by the waters. There are two full-service marinas, where you can rent powerboats, as well as kayaks and stand up paddleboards. An hour south from the capital, Colorado’s second biggest city lies at the eastern foot of the Rockies. The Maroon Bells reflected in Crater Lake. Best Places to Fish in Colorado Colorado fishing Guide With over 6,000 miles of fish-bearing rivers and streams, 2000+ reservoirs and lakes and a multitude of Gold Medal waters (for those prize-winning catches), Colorado has it all! Horsetooth Reservoir sits in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by deep red sandstone and mountain vegetation. If you choose to visit any one of these destinations, please remember to recreate responsibly, stay on the trail, and pack out all trash. Lake San Cristobal. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Lake Granby. At an elevation of 10,620 feet, it is a subalpine lake surrounded by mountains much higher than it. The 11 Most Beautiful Lake Hikes in Colorado | Happiest Outdoors. Hatches are strong, weed growth has begun but isn’t enough to hamper the fishing and water temperatures are ideal. In summer, you can take out motorized and non-motorized boats from two marinas and fish from the shoreline or on the water. If you’re wanting to do some fishing, the lake is stocked with trout. Colorado's Best Lakes with Campgrounds - 303 Magazine. You can purchase a fishing license at the lake or in Lake City. Lather up with sunscreen and bring your umbrellas every summer for swimming at Colorado’s best beaches. They are among the most photographed mountains in the country. Read More: 20 Highest Roads in Colorado 2. High Alpine lakes have their place in the best fall hikes in Colorado. Connected to Grand Lake by the Colorado River, Shadow Mountain Lake is the third sister in a group of high alpine bodies of water (Granby Lake is the other) set against the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Although most travelers usually visit Colorado for the plentiful skiing the mountains have to offer, summer is a great time to ski Colorado in a completely different way. She gives us a run-down on the 11 most beautiful lake hikes in Colorado. Pro Tip: Rocky Mountain National Park and the north/south stretch from Boulder to Fort Collins are two areas with the most lakes in the state. Rating . 2. During winter, when the lake freezes over, it is popular with ice-fishing enthusiasts. The surrounding mountain scenery is equally beautiful. There are also hiking trails around the lake and opportunities for horseback riding and mountain biking. Colorado is the abode of over two thousand lakes and reservoirs and about six thousand fishable miles of rivers, streams, and estuaries flow through the land, making it a fisherman’s heaven. As one of the more popular areas in the range, it’s still not too crowded. Although the water stays chilly even in summer, many brave the temps for a swim, and there is a swimming beach area with picnic tables. At an average altitude of 6,800 feet, the snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes make most hikers fall hopelessly in love with the area. McPhee is a large lake in southwest Colorado. It is at a little distance from Mesa Verde, Dolores, and Cortez. Lake Granby. To reach Crater Lake, just outside Aspen, you'll have to hike in and out via a 3.8-mile, round-trip trail. Explore the most popular lake trails near Colorado Springs with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. The lake is between the towns of Frisco and Dillon, both of which have numerous lodging options - catering especially to budget-focused travelers and families with kids - as well as a variety of restaurants. Ok, this isn't a "Lost Lake," but the name is close and the lake is in one of the most beautiful settings in Colorado. The Best Front Range Hikes – A compendium of the best hikes in Colorado’s Front Range, which is where most of the state’s population lies. Here’s our list of the best lakes in Colorado to visit: 1. Horsetooth Reservoir just west of Fort Collins is one popular option. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide-variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. Enjoy your boat as Colorado is home to more than 2,000 lakes and reservoirs: Chatfield Reservoir Chatfield Reservoir is a Denver Water flood-control reservoir along the South Platte River that is a hotspot for boaters as the reservoir features a marina, launch ramp, boat rentals, campsites, and … Fishing is also revered in Colorado lakes, and, best of all, it is a sport that can be done all year, with ice-fishing popular on many of the lakes listed here come winter. In summer, activities range from jet skiing and fishing to boating, canoeing, and stand up paddleboarding. Grab some friends and family and take a long weekend to chill out and soak up some rays. Along the way, you'll pass the pretty Nymph Lake, but make sure to continue on to Dream. Home to 12,000 miles of streams, over 2,500 lakes, and 322 miles of Gold Medal fisheries, Colorado is one of the nation’s best states for fishing. Nearby Hotels. A quick 2 mile hike uphill will take you to the best campsite in … The area is especially sublime in July and August when the wildflowers are at their peak. There are also guided fishing trips available for the gold medal and wild trout found in these waters, but you are, of course, welcome to fish on your own as long as you have a state fishing license. Today, visitors enjoy fishing, boating, RV and conventional camping, and wildlife viewing at the lake surrounded by some of the absolute best natural scenery in Colorado. Summer in Colorado means sunshine, afternoon thunderstorms, and long days perfect for sipping craft beer on a patio. 2048 x 1536 jpeg 574kB. You can fish from shore or take a boat out. 1. While Colorado is home to plenty of natural lakes, you’ll find that some of the best places to go boating are the state’s human-made reservoir. From hiking around the water to fishing, boating, picnicking, and swimming, there are endless ways to spend the perfect day here. Quail Lake Park. It's also an easy hike, making it popular with families. This pretty lake is right at the base of Hahn's Peak and offers year-round recreation opportunities. Not far from the eclectic mountain town of Nederland, Lake Isabelle requires an 8.6-mile out-and-back hike to reach. This 3,400 acre reservoir is open for ice fishing 365 days a year. Last but certainly not least is Trappers Lake. This list showcases some of the best lake rentals Colorado has to offer. While Colorado is home to plenty of natural lakes, you’ll find that some of the best places to go boating are the state’s human-made reservoir. by Emily Krempholtz. There are also opportunities to spot all kinds of wild creatures, from fox to moose, elk, and deer. www.tripadvisor.com . Finally, should you wish to stay, there are campsites and cabins open year-round. Beautiful Hanging Lake, in Glenwood Canyon, is one of the most well known lakes in Colorado, so much so that hiking to it can sometimes feel more like waiting in line at an amusement park than a serene nature hike. Rent a cabin and enjoy fishing for brook, rainbow and brown trout as well as mackinaw and kokanee. It is still moderately difficult, however, gaining 1,150 feet in elevation on the way to the lake. Wikimedia Commons. Although Twin Lakes are considered glacial lakes, their water temperatures range from 65°–75° in the summer months, which allows for a comfortable swim. Sort: Recommended. A kayaker on the calm waters of Shadow Mountain Lake. Ice Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Colorado, known for its turquoise blue color, the wildflowers on the trail on the way to the lake, and of course, being the coldest lake in Colorado. Colorado bass fishing wouldn’t be complete without mentioning McPhee Reservoir. The hike is perfect for families and takes you past lush meadows and forested terrain. There is a public boat ramp, dock, and parking area on the west side of the lake, and fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, and stand up paddleboards can all be rented in Lake City. The Missouri Lakes Basin is one of the best day hikes and one of the prettiest hikes in Colorado! Many of the top attractions in Colorado are found in the parks and natural areas, from Rocky Mountain National Park to Garden of the Gods. The reward is Upper Slate Lake, one of the prettiest and most remote wilderness gems in Colorado. Elevation gain. Although it’s hard to go wrong, here’s a look at the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado for any ability level. 6. One of Colorado’s gold medal stillwater fisheries, North Delaney is known for producing huge rainbow, brown, and cutthroat/rainbow hybrid trout. The views are well worth the effort it takes to get here. Grand Lake The largest natural lake in Colorado sits outside the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park in a town of the same name, with a boardwalk, marina and lots of family fun and events each year. From high alpine lakes that require a hike through the backcountry to massive reservoirs outside major cities like Boulder and Denver, there are opportunities for all sorts of water sports, from sailing to boating to jet skiing. Learn More. Grand Lake is a quaint and picturesque little town, which sits right on Grand Lake itself. Caribou Lake. 8. Read More: 20 Highest Roads in Colorado 2. It’s from Colorado local Sarah Maurer of missadventurepants.com. The lake is adjacent to the town of Grand Lake, which serves as the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. In northwestern Colorado, north of the town of Steamboat Springs, is Steamboat Lake. All this beauty comes at a physical excursion cost, however. There is also good fishing on Grand Lake. In fact, alpine lakes in Colorado are so famous, nearly every mountain hike passes a pristine lake nestled in the mountains. Grand Lake offers a little bit of everything to travelers, including a historic boardwalk dating back to the late 1800s. Boating is popular in summer, as well as jet skiing, waterskiing, sailing, and kayaking. If you are looking for a smaller community to base yourself, where you can get out and enjoy nature, consider Durango, home to great hiking, biking, white water rafting, and much more. Maroon Lake in Aspen. At the north end of Summit County along the Blue River, manmade Green Mountain Reservoir is a fun place to plan a summer camping trip on the water with a group of friends or family. Hiking, Parks, Lakes. Grab some friends and family and take a long weekend to chill out and soak up some rays. Situated near Grand Lake and the vibrant town of Granby, this alpine lake is … The Best Camping in Colorado. From short day hikes close to the city to multi-day backpacking trips deep in Rocky Mountain National Park, these adventures will take you to some of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Colorado. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. Instead, you'll need to hike in and out via the Fern Lake or Bear Lake trails. Its proximity to some of the state’s best rivers and lakes puts it among the best fishing towns in Colorado. Many of these lakes are nestled between some of the most incredible mountain scenery you'll ever lay eyes on, making them ideal for golden hour photoshoots. Photo: Mike Fennell. It's perfect for exercising. Used under CC BY 2.0. 303magazine.com. Together the three lakes offer over 150 miles of coastline—forty of them around Lake Grandby alone. From snow-capped mountains to vibrant cities to the lush countryside, you will always find something new and exciting in the Centennial State. 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Colorado comfort food, including brown trout, and you can rent powerboats, as well jet! And be inspired you rent various kinds of wild creatures, from fox to moose, elk, and 3,000...