Stunning Lakes to Explore in Colorado

Colorado has numerous scenic lakes that are popular destinations for weekend getaways and centers for outdoor recreation. Let’s look at the top lakes in Colorado for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the state’s natural beauty.

Grand Lake is Colorado’s biggest and deepest natural lake, located at the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park in the pleasant town of Grand Lake. Grand Lake is a popular all-season destination; in the summer, it is ideal for boating and fishing, and in the winter, it freezes over and becomes a major snowmobiling hotspot.

Shadow Mountain Lake, in the Arapaho National Recreation Area, is situated alongside and connected to Grand Lake. With a stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop, it is an oft-photographed natural site. This mountainous lake is ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing, particularly for the lake’s abundant population of brown trout.

Lake Granby, a vast reservoir of the Colorado River, is also in the Arapaho National Recreation Area, just south of Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake. It stretches for more than 7,250 acres and is one of the largest bodies of water in Colorado. Boaters can travel up the river to Shadow Mountain Lake and then to Grand Lake via a connecting waterway. Boating, fishing, swimming, and paddle boarding are all common on Lake Granby in the summer, and there are numerous cabins and campgrounds by the water. 

Blue Mesa Reservoir, based along the Gunnison River, is Colorado’s largest body of water entirely within the state. While water levels have depleted recently, this reservoir is still a popular recreational destination with much to do, including water sports such as water skiing and wakeboarding. Blue Mesa Reservoir is known for its excellent salmon and trout fishing opportunities and its beaches for relaxing along the water. 

Found in the White River National Forest, Hanging Lake is a tiny body of water with a waterfall constantly replenished by the flowing Bridal Veil Falls. A scenic hiking trail leads visitors to this picturesque little lake.

Dream Lake is a gorgeous alpine lake in the world-famous Rocky Mountain National Park. Surrounded by incredible mountainous scenery at the foothills of Hallett Peak, this small lake can be accessed by following Bear Lake Trail in the park. Visitors can swim in Dream Lake, but be aware that the lake is chilly, as it is a glacier-fed body of water, so temperatures are cold even in the summer.

Lake San Cristobal, over 9,000 feet up in the San Juan Mountains, is the second-largest natural lake in Colorado. It is a common destination for those who enjoy kayaking and canoeing, and the fishing is world-class. Anglers can expect to see an array of different trout species as well as kokanee salmon.

Located between the two mountains that make up the Maroon Bells, Maroon Lake is an alpine lake in Aspen. One of Colorado’s most famous natural sites, the Maroon Bells are made all the prettier by the calm, reflective waters of Maroon Lake. This area is often referred to as Colorado’s most photographed natural destination.