Top Colorado Lakes to Help You Cool Off This Summer
Grand Lake
Grand Lake, just 50 miles southwest of the infamous Estes Park and is a great getaway for couples or families as it is the largest natural body of water in Colorado. With plenty of parks, romantic lodges overlooking the lake, a marina offering scenic lake tours, a hike to a waterfall, and a beach there is plenty to do and multiple ways to cool off.
Big Soda Lake
This lake is your closest option to metro Denver and can be seen right from C-470. For most this is typically a short 20 minute drive from Denver. This lake has ‘no-hike-in’ to reach this sandy beach that offers a swimming lane, canoes, paddleboards, paddle boats, swimming, restrooms, and more. Please note that this highly visited lake does not have a lifeguard on duty.
Blue Mesa Reservoir
Both an adventure haven and 100 miles of shoreline to relax on, introducing the Blue Mesa Reservoir. Located 4 hours from Denver by Gunnison, CO is this reservoir that offers Kokanee Salmon fishing from July - September, tons of hiking, a “party cove” in Cebolla Basin, scenic paddle boarding down the Marrow Point Reservoir, and more.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Looking for a day trip? Visit Horsetooth Reservoir just outside of Fort Collins, Colorado. This Reservoir offers motorsports, fishing, waterskiing, views, and a swim beach just minutes away from downtown Fort Collins. At this lake you will feel as if you are hours away emerged in nature but one can still easily slip away after the day trip for some ice cream in town.
Eleven Mile Canyon Reservoir
This lake is secluded and offers tons of wildlife outside of the many species of fish. It is 65 miles west of Colorado Springs and can be visited on a two-stop trip including the popular summer spot, Lake George. This location offers boating, camping, sailing, windsurfing, hiking, and the two things it is known for the most; fishing and bird watching.
Boulder Reservoir
Safe for all ages. This is one of the largest lifeguard attended swimming beaches in Colorado. They have sections roped off in the water for young ones and a section for more advanced swimmers 12 and up who must pass a swim test to swim in. With lots of sand to sunbathe on and water skiing galore - this is a perfect day trip for the whole family.
Cherry Creek State Park Reservoir
Located in Aurora, CO is Cherry Creek State Park Reservoir. This lake is a great choice for people looking for lots of activities - both in and out of the water. Featuring boat-rentals, a tiki bar, a lake house, model airplane flying, horseback riding, and a family shooting range. A one day visit might not be enough.
Devil’s Punch Bowl
Sometimes a ‘Cold Plunge’ is the only way to cool off on a hot Colorado day. Pair that with a place filled with adventure, and you’ve got yourself a great time! Located about 9 miles from Aspen, you will need to pull off of Highway 82, Independence Pass Highway, in a small unmarked area that is typically busy in the summer months. Great for cliff jumping and advanced swimmers, this spot is a true thrill. Camping and additional hiking is offered close by at Weller Lake and campground as well.
Emerald Lake
This is the second lake on our list close to Estes Park and is an easily accessible spot by a short hike, a roundtrip of 3.5 miles, and even some paved trails. Starting at the Bear Lake Trailhead, this lake is said to be one of the greatest gems of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Offering wildflowers in the Summer and great views of many peaks along your hike including Longs Peak. This lake is not to be missed.
Lake San Cristobal
The second largest lake in Colorado is Lake San Cristobal located in Lake City, Colorado. The best part about visiting one of the largest lakes in the state is that there is room for everyone! With boating, kayaking, camping, fishing, and scenic views all around, this lake offers everything that make Colorado great!
From all of us here at Quick-Set Auto Glass, drive safely out there!
