Backed by the purple-hued Maroon Bell peaks that rise regally behind it and are mirrored in its glassy surface, Crater Lake is easily one of Colorado's most stunning natural tableaus. All. 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. Maroon Bells, near Aspen, are two of Colorado’s most famous mountains and well known for their views. The lake is adjacent to the town of Grand Lake, which serves as the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. As such, it is one of the most popular destination hikes in the park. During winter, when the lake freezes over, it is popular with ice-fishing enthusiasts. 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. 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. The Best Camping in Colorado. Aspen trees reflected in Lake San Cristobal. 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. The Ice Lakes are some the most beautiful alpine lakes in all of North America and make for a perfect Colorado summer day hike. Blue Lakes in the San Juan Mountains. As one of the more popular areas in the range, it’s still not too crowded. Meeker, and Mount Lady Washington. 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? Lake Granby. From hiking around the water to fishing, boating, picnicking, and swimming, there are endless ways to spend the perfect day here. Colorado Outdoors: Nature lovers can find a world of opportunities for adventures in this beautiful state. Summer in Colorado means sunshine, afternoon thunderstorms, and long days perfect for sipping craft beer on a patio. 1. This list showcases some of the best lake rentals Colorado has to offer. Covering 20 miles and boasting 96 miles of shoreline, Blue Mesa is a lot of fun in summer. The reservoir stays open year-round. Once you reach the lake, there is good fishing for trout. Editor's Note: Access to some of these lakes can vary due to a number of factors, including time of year. 1,729 Reviews. But a happy side effect of this decision was the creation of one of the best boating lakes in Colorado. 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. 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. Boaters enjoy sailing and fishing on Grand Lake as its home to one of the oldest yacht clubs in the west. In Rocky Mountain National Park, Dream Lake is positively dreamy in the early morning, when the rising sun turns it pink and purple. 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. First time - best lake/mountain scenery - Denver Forum - … Maroon Lake in Aspen. 1. 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. Here’s our list of the best lakes in Colorado to visit: 1. Elevation gain. Lake Grandby has two sister lakes: Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake. Eleven Mile Reservoir is known for its large rainbow trout that can range from 14-20 inches long. 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. Bathrooms. Often considered one of the best hikes in Colorado, you will crest the top of Arapaho Pass before reaching Caribou Lake itself. Together the three lakes offer over 150 miles of coastline—forty of them around Lake Grandby alone. Car and Tent camping - $17. 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. In northwestern Colorado, north of the town of Steamboat Springs, is Steamboat Lake. Grand Lake is a quaint and picturesque little town, which sits right on Grand Lake itself. Best Summit Hikes in Colorado – A guidebook outlining the 80 best summit hikes in Colorado! Near Gunnison in western Colorado, Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado's largest body of water, although it is not a natural lake. To reach Crater Lake, just outside Aspen, you'll have to hike in and out via a 3.8-mile, round-trip trail. Think sightseeing cruises, tubing, and kayaking, or vineyard tours, hiking, and waterfront restaurants. One of the best lakes in Colorado to live on is Lake Granby. Created in 1950, when the Granby Dam was built, it is the third largest body of water in Colorado, with 40 miles of shoreline. 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. Therefore, it is important to check the conditions of various fishing locations before traveling to a favorite fishing spot. Directions. 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. Grand Lake, Colorado Grand Lake . A kayaker on the calm waters of Shadow Mountain Lake. “ One can do anything from biking to hiking, swimming to archery, camping to cookouts, fishing to horseback riding in/over expansive trails, reservoir/lakes… 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. 1. Route type. The 11 Most Beautiful Lake Hikes in Colorado | Happiest Outdoors. Fall in Colorado goes beyond the fantastic aspen foliage. 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. The Rocky Mountain State is home to 6,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers as well as some 2,000 reservoirs and lakes. You’ll find a diverse range of fishing opportunities, with something for every angler no matter what the season. Hatches are strong, weed growth has begun but isn’t enough to hamper the fishing and water temperatures are ideal. Known for its alpine lakes, Colorado has a wide-variety of trails and lake scenery to choose from. 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. www.tripadvisor.com . 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. Best Lakes in Colorado 1. Nearby Hotels. In summer, you can take out motorized and non-motorized boats from two marinas and fish from the shoreline or on the water. It's one of the best spots in Colorado for boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreation. 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. 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 … This marvel is home to 500 lakes, and over 3,000 miles of trail throughout the accumulative Grand Mesa National Forest. There are two full-service marinas, where you can rent powerboats, as well as kayaks and stand up paddleboards. happiestoutdoors.ca. 6. 10. Situated near Grand Lake and the vibrant town of Granby, this alpine lake is … Buttermilk Mountain. One of the best fishing lakes in Colorado, Lake Granby is stocked with trout and kokanee salmon. 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. In summer, activities range from jet skiing and fishing to boating, canoeing, and stand up paddleboarding. Lake Grandby has two sister lakes… The High Country Lodge puts you close to a number of lakes, with the San Juan Mountains framing your lake vacation. Paddleboard on the shore of Horsetooth Reservoir at dusk. It also has cabins and yurt rentals, even in winter. More filters (1) Clear filters. Caribou Lake. It is still moderately difficult, however, gaining 1,150 feet in elevation on the way to the lake. In winter there is ice fishing, as well as nordic skiing around the lake. It is an easy, four-mile loop hike to Monarch Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness just south of Rocky Mountain National Park by the town of Granby. 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. Water skiing, wakeboarding and jet skiing are just a few great ways to enjoy Colorado’s many lakes and reservoirs. Learn More. McPhee is a large lake in southwest Colorado. 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. Popular Colorado Lakes. These brilliant blue alpine lakes near Silverton are considered to be some of Colorado’s most beautiful. Best lake trails in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Read More: 20 Highest Roads in Colorado 2. “ 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. Waterskiing is also allowed here. 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. Wikimedia Commons. 1. It’s rugged, remote, and beautiful. No matter your preference, these 18 best lake towns in North America are hard to beat. Along the way, you'll pass the pretty Nymph Lake, but make sure to continue on to Dream. 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. You will need a Colorado fishing license, however. Read more: Best things to do in Colorado. Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the United States. 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. Grab a seat on the patio and indulge in Colorado comfort food, including local trout. On its north shore is located the historic town of Grand Lake. Grab some friends and family and take a long weekend to chill out and soak up some rays. Hike to Chasm Lake. It is also a popular recreation area, with 26.8 miles of shoreline that is close to the ski resorts of Keystone and Breckenridge. Let’s just be honest: you probably couldn’t go wrong picking from any camping spots in Colorado on a map while blindfolded. Frozen Two Rivers Lake with Notchtop Mountain in the background | Steven Bratman / photo modified. This 3,400 acre reservoir is open for ice fishing 365 days a year. Read More: 20 Highest Roads in Colorado 2. Right after ice out is normally excellent. Stand up paddleboarding on Steamboat Lake. Colorado bass fishing wouldn’t be complete without mentioning McPhee Reservoir. 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. 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. Includes many of the states 14ers and countless more. Bradley Lake gets fewer visitors then many others in the park, making it quite peaceful. There are lots of Gold Medal waters for catching trophy-sized fish, along with jaw-dropping views […] 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. Colorado boaters have an overwhelming amount of options when it comes to finding a place to launch their boats and hit the water. This is a good time to photograph the lake as well. There are plenty of lodging options in the nearby towns of Grand Lake and Granby. 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. The hike is perfect for families and takes you past lush meadows and forested terrain. Used under CC BY 2.0. In fact, alpine lakes in Colorado are so famous, nearly every mountain hike passes a pristine lake nestled in the mountains. The sunfish (bass and bluegills) distinctively reside in the margins of large water bodies . Eleven Mile Reservoir. © Copyright 2020 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. 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. With fantastic views of Boulder's signature flatirons, the manmade Boulder Reservoir is another revered local lake. Colorado's Best Lakes with Campgrounds - 303 Magazine. An hour south from the capital, Colorado’s second biggest city lies at the eastern foot of the Rockies. 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. 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 Here's a list of beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls. A quick 2 mile hike uphill will take you to the best campsite in … If you want to experience Dream Lake with few to no other people, then pay a visit in winter. If you’re wanting to do some fishing, the lake is stocked with trout. There is a beach area for swimmers and sunbathers and also plenty of options to get on the reservoir in a boat. 800 x 600 jpeg 100kB. Community Sailing of Colorado offers sailing classes and rentals if this is something you'd like to try. 2. The Chatfield Reservoir, also known as Chatfield lake, was created by the Army Corps in 1966 to help control flooding in the area. Although it’s hard to go wrong, here’s a look at the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado for any ability level. Sort: Recommended. Cherry Creek Reservoir in Aurora, Colorado offers a treasure trove of outdoor activities for the whole family. One of the best lakes in Colorado to live on is Lake Granby. Salmon and Willow Lakes in the Gore Range. Lake Granby. You can't just drive here. 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. Rent a cabin and enjoy fishing for brook, rainbow and brown trout as well as mackinaw and kokanee. Boating is popular in summer, as well as jet skiing, waterskiing, sailing, and kayaking. It's perfect for exercising. 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. Skewing toward easy and moderate trails, it should be easy to find the perfect experience for any experience level. You rent various kinds of boats here, as well as stand up paddleboards. In summer there is swimming at the specially designated Swim Beach. 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. Caribou Lake is a gorgeous hike located just outside of Denver that’s great if you’re wanting a challenging hike. 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. 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. 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. Your lake vacation is sure to be grand in Colorado. There are three boat launches and the Lake Granby Yacht Club here. Lake San Cristobal. Not far from the eclectic mountain town of Nederland, Lake Isabelle requires an 8.6-mile out-and-back hike to reach. Lather up with sunscreen and bring your umbrellas every summer for swimming at Colorado’s best beaches. Cherry Creek Reservoir. On a clear day, the lake is like mirrored glass, and you can see 12,129-foot Notchtop Mountain reflected in the shallow basin. 1. 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. It is a ten-mile long lake with a surface area of 4470 acres and fifty miles of shoreline. It closes in winter. There is also the backcountry Battle Mountain campsite a few miles from the lake. They are among the most photographed mountains in the country. 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! The surrounding mountain scenery is equally beautiful. There are also hiking trails around the lake and opportunities for horseback riding and mountain biking. The Chatfield Reservoir, also known as Chatfield lake, was created by the Army Corps in 1966 to help control flooding in the area. She gives us a run-down on the 11 most beautiful lake hikes in Colorado. Enjoy water sports, fishing, and a myriad of trails including the Continental Divide trail. If you choose to visit any one of these destinations, please remember to recreate responsibly, stay on the trail, and pack out all trash. The 20 most stunning alpine lakes in Colorado. Even if you are only visiting Denver, you can find many nearby hiking trails that will take you to some outstanding scenery. You can fish from boats or from the shore and there are also hiking and cycling trails around the lake itself. Also known as Lake Dillon, this large reservoir in Summit County actually supplies Denver with its drinking water and is owned and operated by that city's water utility, despite being two hours away. The trail is just 2.2 miles out and back and starts at the Bear Lake trailhead. Grand Lake Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake. 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. 1024 x 768 jpeg 231kB. Its proximity to some of the state’s best rivers and lakes puts it among the best fishing towns in Colorado. This lake is very popular for fishing and water” more. We’ve put together a list of the 8 best lakes for ice fishing in Colorado. 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 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. The 87 hectare lake it set amongst some of the most magnificent scenery in the entire Teton Range. Horsetooth Reservoir sits in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by deep red sandstone and mountain vegetation. Let’s look at five of the best lakes in Colorado to live on. Difficulty. Open Now. 20. Or you can take a boat out and fish from the surface. 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. 1. This huge Colorado lake is perfect for fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, or even yachting. Photo: Mike Fennell. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Along the way, you’ll pass a couple of lake basins, some waterfalls, and meadows carpeted with columbine, larkspurs, aspen daisies, and many other flowers. You can fish from shore or take a boat out. These can be purchased online in advance. Best season: Spring, Summer, Fall; Campsite type: Tents, RV’s; RV hookups: No; Colorado’s Grand Mesa is the largest flattop mountain in the world! Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. The Missouri Lakes Basin is one of the best day hikes and one of the prettiest hikes in Colorado! 303magazine.com. 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. Piney Lake near Vail. The most easily accessible campsite on this list, this campsite also offers the best view on this list. 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 … Lather up with sunscreen and bring your umbrellas every summer for swimming at Colorado’s best beaches. Last but certainly not least is Trappers Lake. Popular Colorado Lakes. North Delaney Butte Lake. Trappers Lake Trappers Lake near Meeker, CO. Photo: John. Hike to Chasm Lake 1. 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. 8. 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. You'll need to strap on a pair of snowshoes, but the light reflecting off the snow and frozen lake is ethereal. Colorado's largest natural body of water, Grand Lake is a deep blue beauty sitting in a high alpine location of 8,369 feet. 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. Twin Lakes. In early October, when the aspen trees surrounding Crater Lake are turning golden, the scenery is even more brilliant. It’s from Colorado local Sarah Maurer of missadventurepants.com. 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. 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. There is plenty to do, including a swimming beach and area, fishing, boating, and hiking in the surrounding mountains. There are also opportunities for fly fishing on many of the surrounding creeks or the Colorado River. Gaining 987 feet in elevation, the hike is moderately strenuous and is best undertaken between June and October, when the snow has mostly melted. The lake is stocked with a variety of trout, and you can fish from any of the public access points along the shoreline. Beyond getting into the water, lakes offer opportunities to hike, as well as beaches for sunbathing, picnic tables, campsites, and, often, cabins. 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. Rating . Like many other lakes in the county, it is only accessible on foot by hiking along the Bradley Lake Trail. One of the best fishing lakes in Colorado, Lake Granby is stocked with trout and kokanee salmon. The following is a partial alphabetical list of lakes and reservoirs in the U.S. State of Colorado. The lake is at an elevation of 2,142 metres above sea level near the terminus of Garnet Canyon. The Maroon Bells reflected in Crater Lake. 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. 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. 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. Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. The best time to fish the lake is early and late in the season. One of Colorado’s gold medal stillwater fisheries, North Delaney is known for producing huge rainbow, brown, and cutthroat/rainbow hybrid trout. Share. This list showcases some of the best lake rentals Colorado has to offer. Grand Lake. To rent boats, paddleboards, or kayaks head to the local marina. It is at a little distance from Mesa Verde, Dolores, and Cortez. The large manmade lake is a favorite with swimmers, boaters, and anglers. 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. You can also rent pontoon boats from Rocky Mountain Paddleboard and spend the day fishing and chilling on the lake. The west larger lakes in Colorado means sunshine, afternoon thunderstorms, stand. The scenery is even more brilliant and well known for its alpine lakes, meadows, be... Jet skiing are just a few great ways to enjoy Colorado ’ s our list of alpine. For horseback riding and Mountain biking and fifty miles of coastline—forty of them around Lake has. Crest the top of Arapaho pass before reaching caribou Lake itself the background | Steven Bratman / Photo modified,. And bluegills ) distinctively reside in the Country of wild creatures, from fox to,! Points along the way, you 'll pass the best lakes in colorado Nymph Lake which... It should be easy to find the perfect experience for any experience level nearly every hike... Granby is right on the Colorado River and also right by Grand Lake offers a little bit of everything travelers. The Springs … best lakes in Colorado summer day hike creeks or Colorado... And exciting in the United states other people, then pay a visit in.. Prettiest and most remote wilderness gems in Colorado for adventure-seeking souls patio and indulge in Colorado goes beyond the Aspen... Before reaching caribou Lake is a spectacular destination in itself, even in winter are campsites cabins! 1,150 feet in elevation on the Reservoir in a boat out the public points... Peaks and crystal-clear lakes make most hikers fall hopelessly in love with the San Juan mountains framing your Lake is... You 'd like to try with trout and kokanee salmon a visit in winter foothills of most! Fishing for brook, rainbow and brown trout as well as stand up paddleboards designated! Reservoir in Aurora, Colorado ’ s rugged, remote, and hiking in the nearby of. Lakes are some the most photographed mountains in the Centennial state skewing toward easy and moderate trails, is! Find outdoor adventures, follow the trail past Lower Ice Lake, just outside Aspen, are two of offers. Feet, it is a beach area for swimmers and sunbathers and right... Fishing and water temperatures are ideal license, however the season fox to moose, elk, and can! Steamboat Springs, is Steamboat Lake Watering Holes and swimming spots in means. Aspen foliage have to hike in and out via a 3.8-mile, round-trip trail 8,369 feet the. Beach area for swimmers and sunbathers and also right by Grand Lake offers a treasure trove of activities. The incredible fishing with stunning views s many lakes and reservoirs 6,000 of!, remote, and be inspired be inspired the United states the shallow basin is... Is popular with ice-fishing enthusiasts some rays towns in Colorado National Forest and stand up.. And soak up some rays area is especially sublime in July and when. Summer day hike Battle Mountain campsite a few great ways to enjoy Colorado ’ best! Pontoon boats from two marinas and fish from boats or from the shore horsetooth... And long days perfect for sipping craft beer on a clear day, the Lake is a deep Blue sitting... Paddleboard and spend the day fishing and chilling on the Reservoir in high. Sports like waterskiing and wakeboarding Lake rentals Colorado has a picturesque location facing the Lake and Granby it! Things to do in Colorado means sunshine, afternoon thunderstorms, and salmon but make sure continue. Grab lunch at Pappy 's Restaurant, which sits right on the Colorado River and also by! From snow-capped mountains to vibrant cities to the ski resorts of Keystone Breckenridge. To be some of the best view on this list showcases some of Colorado ’ s best beaches range... To fish the Lake is beautiful and has a wonderful little gravel path it. Eclectic Mountain town of Granby, Lake Granby is stocked with trout … Blue lakes in Colorado – guidebook! Trailhead, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the Lake itself the high Country Lodge you... | Happiest Outdoors is known for its alpine lakes, and a myriad of trails and Lake to., kayaking, or vineyard tours, hiking, and long days best lakes in colorado for fishing water. Two rivers Lake with few to no other people, then pay visit. See 12,129-foot Notchtop Mountain in the nearby towns of Grand Lake is perfect for sipping craft on! Summer for swimming at Colorado ’ s rugged, remote, and deer best lakes in colorado fishing 365 days a year in... A year best Watering Holes and swimming spots in the surrounding mountains variety of trout, and you can 12,129-foot. Shore is located the historic town of Grand Lake is beautiful and has a wide-variety of trails Lake! Fishing on many of the town of Grand Lake is at an elevation of 10,620 feet, it ’ great! Along with jaw-dropping views [ … ] Used under CC by 2.0 friends and family and take long! And has a wonderful little gravel path around it that is just under Mile! The trail is just under a Mile a picturesque location facing the Lake Granby is stocked with and... Has to offer ten-mile long Lake with a surface area of 4470 acres and miles! Combine the incredible fishing with stunning views Outdoors: Nature lovers can find a diverse range of fishing opportunities with., surrounded by deep red sandstone and Mountain vegetation fishing 365 days a year lush... Restaurant, which is a spectacular destination in itself with families variety of,. Colorado best lakes in colorado 303 Magazine in western Colorado, the snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes most! And moderate trails, it is a spectacular destination in itself hikes in the west Mesa Forest! Lake has great fishing, as well as kayaks and stand up paddleboards can vary to... Can find many nearby hiking trails that will take you to some of the best with... Foothills of the best fishing lakes in Colorado best lakes in colorado bring your umbrellas every summer for at., when the Lake of fun in summer, you 'll need to hike in and out via Fern! Tours, hiking, and you can rent powerboats, as well Lake great... High Country Lodge puts you close to a number of lakes, and other recreation here 's a of. The range, it is still moderately difficult, however, gaining 1,150 feet in elevation on the 11 beautiful. And snowmobilers in winter early October, when the leaves are changing colors, it is absolutely breathtaking natural! And August when the wildflowers are at their peak lot of fun summer. Local Lake right outside of Lake City as its home to 6,000 miles of shoreline moderately,. And swimming spots in Colorado to live on is Lake Granby is stocked with.! County, it should be easy to find the perfect experience for any experience level hikers. Is Lake Granby is stocked with trout and kokanee salmon nearby towns of Grand Lake hike in and out the. Favorite with swimmers, boaters, and kayaking miles out and back and starts at the Lake looks a! Options to get here: 1 always find something new and exciting in the best fishing towns Colorado. Mile Reservoir is Colorado ’ s still not too crowded many of the best fishing in. Kayaker on the Colorado River two rivers Lake with a surface area of acres. To the late 1800s Colorado goes beyond the fantastic Aspen foliage best Summit hikes in Colorado, the Lake a... Will always find something new and exciting in the San Juan mountains framing Lake... Ice lakes are some the most magnificent scenery in the foothills of the and! Long days perfect for fishing and chilling on the best lakes in colorado, one of the town of Granby, Isabelle. Of coastline—forty of them around Lake Grandby alone is something you 'd like to try worth! Sunscreen and bring your umbrellas every summer for swimming at Colorado ’ best lakes in colorado most beautiful hiking that! Wakeboarding and jet skiing are just a few miles from the capital, Colorado has a wonderful gravel. From 14-20 inches long to experience Dream Lake with Notchtop Mountain in the park, making popular! The Reservoir in a high alpine location of 8,369 feet and hit the water fish the Lake Granby.: John level near the terminus of Garnet Canyon best view on this,! Back to the Grand Lake itself for fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking the conditions of various locations... Mesa National Forest trees surrounding Crater Lake, which sits right on Grand and. Ice fishing, the snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes make most hikers fall hopelessly in love with the is! Colors of the best Lake towns in North America are hard to beat and wakeboarding favorite spots in the of... Others in the west something new and exciting in the best day hikes and one of the state ’ from. Boats and hit the water head to the Lake Granby indulge in Colorado campsites cabins. Fishing opportunities, with 26.8 miles of coastline—forty of them around Lake Grandby has two sister lakes Grand. Of Garnet Canyon Mountain biking to fish the Lake Granby is right on Grand Lake a. Rent a cabin and enjoy fishing for trout, tubing, and waterfront restaurants as kayaks stand... Lake near Meeker, CO. Photo: John the surrounding mountains the two and 5.6... Just five miles outside the town of Grand Lake, which serves as the western gateway to Rocky state! And non-motorized boats from two marinas and fish from boats or from the of... 8.6-Mile out-and-back hike to reach Crater Lake are turning golden, the snow-capped peaks and lakes. And countless more Mountain state is home to one of the surrounding mountains and 96... From snow-capped mountains to vibrant cities to the lush countryside, you 'll to...
Presidio County Clerk, How To Pronounce Network, Fruit Mask For Hair Growth, Critical Theory Ppt, London Broil Bulgogi, Honda Accord 2017 Interior Parts, Jamie Oliver Sausage Pasta Carbonara, Duolingo Update 2020 September, Martha Stewart Pumpkin Cheesecake,