Lake San Cristobal. Skewing toward easy and moderate trails, it should be easy to find the perfect experience for any experience level. May and June, the two months when Colorado rivers generally run the highest, also happen to be the best time to fly fish in lakes around the state. 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. From hiking around the water to fishing, boating, picnicking, and swimming, there are endless ways to spend the perfect day here. 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. There are also opportunities to spot all kinds of wild creatures, from fox to moose, elk, and deer. Bear Lake is the easier of the two and is 5.6 miles round-trip. Situated near Grand Lake and the vibrant town of Granby, this alpine lake is … These brilliant blue alpine lakes near Silverton are considered to be some of Colorado’s most beautiful. There are two full-service marinas, where you can rent powerboats, as well as kayaks and stand up paddleboards. As such, it is one of the most popular destination hikes in the park. 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. 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. Instead, you'll need to hike in and out via the Fern Lake or Bear Lake trails. It closes in winter. 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. Therefore, it is important to check the conditions of various fishing locations before traveling to a favorite fishing spot. Meeker, and Mount Lady Washington. Grand Lake Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake. If you want to experience Dream Lake with few to no other people, then pay a visit in winter. If you live in Colorado or plan on moving to the centennial state, there are a number of lakes to explore. Cherry Creek Reservoir in Aurora, Colorado offers a treasure trove of outdoor activities for the whole family. We’ve put together a list of the 8 best lakes for ice fishing in Colorado. This lake is very popular for fishing and water” more. 1. 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. The 11 Most Beautiful Lake Hikes in Colorado | Happiest Outdoors. On a clear day, the lake is like mirrored glass, and you can see 12,129-foot Notchtop Mountain reflected in the shallow basin. © Copyright 2020 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Written in an engaging way. 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 … Caribou Lake. The Maroon Bells reflected in Crater Lake. 10. One of the best lakes in Colorado to live on is Lake Granby. 2048 x 1536 jpeg 574kB. The views are well worth the effort it takes to get here. If you’re wanting to do some fishing, the lake is stocked with trout. www.tripadvisor.com . In summer there is swimming at the specially designated Swim Beach. 1. Grab some friends and family and take a long weekend to chill out and soak up some rays. Once you reach the lake, there is good fishing for trout. Together the three lakes offer over 150 miles of coastline—forty of them around Lake Grandby alone. From the trailhead, follow the trail past Lower Ice Lake, which is a spectacular destination in itself. There is also the backcountry Battle Mountain campsite a few miles from the lake. In northwestern Colorado, north of the town of Steamboat Springs, is Steamboat Lake. Or you can take a boat out and fish from the surface. Colorado's largest natural body of water, Grand Lake is a deep blue beauty sitting in a high alpine location of 8,369 feet. Maroon Bells, near Aspen, are two of Colorado’s most famous mountains and well known for their views. To reach Crater Lake, just outside Aspen, you'll have to hike in and out via a 3.8-mile, round-trip trail. Often considered one of the best hikes in Colorado, you will crest the top of Arapaho Pass before reaching Caribou Lake itself. The entire state is above 3,000 feet, so you’ll combine the incredible fishing with stunning views. Although it’s hard to go wrong, here’s a look at the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado for any ability level. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), Colorado is home to about 35 different freshwater species in 1,300 lakes and reservoirs as well as … 8. Bradley Lake gets fewer visitors then many others in the park, making it quite peaceful. Salmon and Willow Lakes in the Gore Range. The High Country Lodge puts you close to a number of lakes, with the San Juan Mountains framing your lake vacation. You can fish from shore or take a boat out. 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. 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. Eleven Mile Reservoir. There is also good fishing on Grand Lake. 303magazine.com. 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. Right after ice out is normally excellent. Cherry Creek Reservoir. 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. Colorado's Best Lakes with Campgrounds - 303 Magazine. You can purchase a fishing license at the lake or in Lake City. Hiking, Parks, Lakes. 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. Created in 1950, when the Granby Dam was built, it is the third largest body of water in Colorado, with 40 miles of shoreline. 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. 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 In summer, activities range from jet skiing and fishing to boating, canoeing, and stand up paddleboarding. McPhee is a large lake in southwest Colorado. Boating is popular in summer, as well as jet skiing, waterskiing, sailing, and kayaking. Eleven Mile Reservoir is known for its large rainbow trout that can range from 14-20 inches long. Blue Mesa Reservoir and the Dillon Pinnacles. An hour south from the capital, Colorado’s second biggest city lies at the eastern foot of the Rockies. Car and Tent camping - $17. One of Colorado’s gold medal stillwater fisheries, North Delaney is known for producing huge rainbow, brown, and cutthroat/rainbow hybrid trout. 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. Finally, should you wish to stay, there are campsites and cabins open year-round. The hike gains more than 2,300 feet in elevation and takes you past upper and lower Columbine Falls and through open tundra before reaching the dramatic alpine lake that sits in a basin at the base of Longs Peak, Mt. 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. 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. One of the best fishing lakes in Colorado, Lake Granby is stocked with trout and kokanee salmon. This lake is beautiful and has a wonderful little gravel path around it that is just under a mile. The lake is adjacent to the town of Grand Lake, which serves as the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. First time - best lake/mountain scenery - Denver Forum - … Waterskiing is also allowed here. 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. A quick 2 mile hike uphill will take you to the best campsite in … To rent boats, paddleboards, or kayaks head to the local marina. The Chatfield Reservoir, also known as Chatfield lake, was created by the Army Corps in 1966 to help control flooding in the area. In beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park, Chasm Lake is located at 11,803 feet and requires a strenuous 4.2-mile hike to reach from the Longs Peak Trailhead - and then the same distance back out. Best lake trails in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They are among the most photographed mountains in the country. Best Lakes in Colorado Springs, CO. There are also picnic tables. Lake Granby. The lake is at an elevation of 2,142 metres above sea level near the terminus of Garnet Canyon. Used under CC BY 2.0. 1. 1. 1. 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. 915 Cheyenne Mountain Blvd “Easily one of my favorite spots in the Springs. Enjoy water sports, fishing, and a myriad of trails including the Continental Divide trail. When talking about the best lakes in Colorado, it's impossible not to include reservoirs - the state has over three dozen large reservoirs, and many of them are absolutely gorgeous. From snow-capped mountains to vibrant cities to the lush countryside, you will always find something new and exciting in the Centennial State. 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. Grand Lake is a quaint and picturesque little town, which sits right on Grand Lake itself. In winter there is ice fishing, as well as nordic skiing around the lake. 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. ... these lakes … 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. 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. Grab some friends and family and take a long weekend to chill out and soak up some rays. This list showcases some of the best lake rentals Colorado has to offer. 8.) Salmon and Willow Lakes is no exception. She gives us a run-down on the 11 most beautiful lake hikes in Colorado. Your lake vacation is sure to be grand in Colorado. All. “ One can do anything from biking to hiking, swimming to archery, camping to cookouts, fishing to horseback riding in/over expansive trails, reservoir/lakes… Colorado Outdoors: Nature lovers can find a world of opportunities for adventures in this beautiful state. Lake Granby. I’ve hiked to lots of alpine lakes near Vancouver, but so far I haven’t made it to the famous Rocky Mountains in Colorado.And that’s a shame since there are so many awesome hikes in Colorado.So I’m pretty stoked about this post. 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. Near Gunnison in western Colorado, Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado's largest body of water, although it is not a natural lake. 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. Located right outside of Lake City Colorado, the lake looks like a layer of glass reflecting the bright colors of the surrounding mountains. The area is especially sublime in July and August when the wildflowers are at their peak. Twin Lakes. Horsetooth Reservoir just west of Fort Collins is one popular option. 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! That also happens to be a great way to wind down after a busy day day of fishing on nearby Lake Georgetown or hiking up Mount Bierstadt, Mount Evans, or any of the other Colorado 14ers found in the area. While at the lake, grab lunch at Pappy's Restaurant, which has a picturesque location facing the lake. Lather up with sunscreen and bring your umbrellas every summer for swimming at Colorado’s best beaches. Water skiing, wakeboarding and jet skiing are just a few great ways to enjoy Colorado’s many lakes and reservoirs. In fact, alpine lakes in Colorado are so famous, nearly every mountain hike passes a pristine lake nestled in the mountains. There are also opportunities for fly fishing on many of the surrounding creeks or the Colorado River. Shadow Mountain Lake has great fishing, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and salmon. Covering 20 miles and boasting 96 miles of shoreline, Blue Mesa is a lot of fun in summer. 21 Best Watering Holes and Swimming Spots in Colorado - 303 Magazine. 6. Here’s our list of the best lakes in Colorado to visit: 1. It is still moderately difficult, however, gaining 1,150 feet in elevation on the way to the lake. 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. If you're looking for water sports and swimming, then Colorado's numerous reservoirs are often where to head, especially on hot summer days. 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. Share. 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. Fall in Colorado goes beyond the fantastic aspen foliage. by Emily Krempholtz. As one of the more popular areas in the range, it’s still not too crowded. 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. Just five miles outside the town of Granby, Lake Granby is right on the Colorado River and also right by Grand Lake. Grab a seat on the patio and indulge in Colorado comfort food, including local trout. Aspen trees reflected in Lake San Cristobal. Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Maroon Lake in Aspen. 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