Colorado Lakes

There may not be any beaches in Colorado, but visitors will find an array of scenic places to enjoy the water. The list of things to do is as varied as kite boarding and sailing along the lakes in Colorado, white-water rafting along the mighty rivers, and relaxing cares away in the warm hot springs.

Near Glenwood Springs, those enjoying a Colorado lake vacation can spend time enjoying the natural wonders. A hike to Hanging Lake will reward visitors with amazing views; the lake is tucked away on a ledge overlooking one of the most scenic canyons around, Glenwood Cavern. Vacations also can include fly fishing on the Roaring Fork River, white-water rafting on the Colorado River, or relaxing among the hot springs pools at one of the resorts or spas.

Some Colorado lakes outside of Durango also are a favorite of hikers. The trail to the Ice Lakes winds past meadows of the columbine flowers and an abandoned mining camp. Hikers also are treated to views of the San Juan Mountains. Durango also is home to one of the top lakes in Colorado for boating, Vallecito Lake. This secluded lake, nestled in the San Juan National Forest, is also a favorite for fishing. In the fall, the cool evenings and autumn leaves make it a particularly pleasant time to plan a Colorado lake vacation.

The largest natural lake in the state is Grand Lake, located at the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Like other Colorado lakes, vacationers have an array of options for outdoor recreation. These calm, clear waters are favorite places for boating, swimming, and sailing. The town of the same name offers fantastic views of the mountains, as well as resorts, marinas, restaurants, theaters, and a main street right out of the Old West.

Many lakes in Colorado draw anglers in droves. The trout fishing is good at the Delaney Butte Lakes near Walden and Steamboat Lake outside of Steamboat Springs. Just outside of Denver, Barr Lake State Park is known for its opportunities to catch perch, walleye, and bass. A large Kokanee salmon hatchery is located along the Blue Mesa Reservoir. In total, anglers will find more than 6,000 miles of streams, as well as some 2,000 Colorado lakes and reservoirs where fishing in allowed.

Lake Pueblo State Park is included in many people's plans for a Colorado lake vacation. Known for an abundance of sunny days and warm weather, this state park offers 60 miles of shoreline, 4,500 acres of water, and 10,000 acres of land. In view of the Greenhorn and Wet mountains as well as Pikes Peak, visitors can partake in such activities as biking, picnicking, motor boating, tubing, and watching for wildlife. Visitor amenities include two full-service marinas, more than 400 campsites, and a series of paved trails.

Scenic Twin Lakes, at the foot of Colorado's highest mountain peak, is located with an easy drive from Denver and Colorado Springs. Nestled between two natural lakes in the shadow of Mount Elbert, the town has come along way from a transportation hub from the mining communities of Aspen and Leadville. The area is a prime place for recreation and enjoying the natural scenery.