Paddling Colorado Lakes

When it comes to having fun and making a splash, paddling in Colorado’s lakes will help you stay cool until the weather breaks. While Colorado is home to many bodies of water great for rafting, swimming, and fishing, there’s just something extra relaxing about a day spent on a lake with a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. Summers can get hot, and cooling off becomes a necessity; Colorado Lakes got you covered.

Paddling Lakes by Region

Depending on where you live or where you’re coming from, you might be looking for a lake that’s close by and easily accessible. Especially if you’re hauling a boat or meeting friends when you get there. There are lakes and reservoirs across Colorado that are great for paddling. Be sure to check out the details before you go. Some don’t allow motorized boats on their waters; some lakes do, so you’ll be dealing with choppier waves. While this is totally doable and even fun for a lot of people, it’s not always ideal for beginners.

Front Range Lakes

The Front Range has a ton of great lakes for paddling, including Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins, Cherry Creek Reservoir, or Chatfield Reservoir just south of Denver. Other favorites are Boulder Reservoir, Evergreen Lake, Bear Creek Lake, and Monument Lake or Prospect Lake near Colorado Springs. In the Front Range, you’ll find clear blue skies and hot, sunny weather during the summer, which makes jumping off that paddleboard and going for a quick swim all the more appealing.

Paddling Central Colorado Lakes

Whereas lower elevation lakes have hot weather and cool swimming opportunities, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding in the central Rockies affords some unbeatable views, as well as cooler temperatures and, depending on the lake, icy cold refreshing water. Right off of I-70, Dillon Reservoir is a popular lake for paddling, with islands, isolated coves to discover, and tons of nearby camping. As a bonus, no motorboats or swimming are allowed on the reservoir, so you won’t have to worry about choppy waters from nearby water skiers or tubers. Similarly, Tarryall Reservoir in Park County is a calm, small lake that’s perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a peaceful day. Other great lakes for paddling in central Colorado include Green Mountain Reservoir in Heeney (one of the best-kept secrets in Colorado!) and Leadville’s gorgeous Turquoise Lake.

Paddling Northern Colorado Lakes

Grand Lake (the largest and deepest non-manmade lake in Colorado!) and the connected Shadow Lake are, without a doubt, the best-known lakes in the area. A gate connects both lakes, so you could potentially explore both at once, but realistically—unless you’ve got weeks to be out on the water, you’re probably going to have your hands full trying to see even a fraction of one of these lakes. Grand Lake is a popular spot though, so if you’re looking for something a little more private and peaceful, try Wolford Mountain Reservoir near Kremmling, which has more than 1500 acres of surface area and is one of the least-frequented reservoirs in the state. Another great spot in the state’s northern region is Steamboat Springs—you can paddle to your heart’s content on Steamboat Lake or Stagecoach Reservoir, all with fantastic views.

Paddling Southwest Colorado Lakes

Right behind Grand Lake in the list of largest natural lakes is Lake San Cristobal, where you’ll be sharing the water (and the jaw-dropping views of the San Juans!) with motorized boaters and plenty of fishermen looking for a lucky catch, but the lake is certainly big enough for everyone, and has a lot of designated picnic areas for fun both in and out of the water. Blue Mesa Reservoir near Gunnison is another great choice, with a truly massive body of water to explore. Suppose it’s views and seclusion you’re looking for. In that case, you’ll want to bring your board or kayak out to Trout Lake near Telluride or Vallecito Lake, about 30 30-minute drive from Durango. These are both the kinds of places where you need a waterproof phone case to take pictures.

Paddling Western Slope Lakes

There are more than three hundred lakes within the Grand Mesa, and while they vary in size, popularity, and seclusion, bringing your canoe or SUP out that way means you’re absolutely bound to find your Goldilocks “just right” spot. Near Silt, you’ll find Grass Valley Reservoir, which you’ll likely be sharing with anglers but which makes for a peaceful day on crystal clear waters. Other great paddling lakes on the Western Slope include Sweitzer Lake State Park in Delta and James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, which has a number of lakes to explore.

Renting a Boat, Kayak, or Paddleboard

If you don’t own a craft for paddling, most of the lakes listed above have nearby shops that rent equipment. Many offer (or even require) lessons before you even hit the water to ensure you understand what you’re doing and have a grip on safe practices. Ask around to decide what you want because there are several options, like two-person kayaks or inflatable paddleboards. You’ll also find rentals at local sporting goods stores or adventure companies.

By Emily Krempholtz