11 Best Colorado Lakes You Will Love
Best Colorado Lakes: Introduction
These best Colorado lakes are simply stunning!
Colorado is renowned for its amazing natural landscapes, and one of the state’s most beautiful features is its collection of picturesque lakes. From the crystal-clear waters of the high-altitude lakes in the Rocky Mountains to the serene and tranquil lakes nestled among the foothills, Colorado lakes are a feast for the senses.
In this post, we will explore the 11 best Colorado lakes, each with its unique features and characteristics.
The 11 best Colorado lakes we will be covering in this post have been chosen for their natural beauty, accessibility, and the range of activities available to visitors.
Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, fish, kayak, or simply relax by the water’s edge, you’re sure to find a lake on this list that speaks to you.
So, sit back, relax, and join us on a journey through the best Colorado lakes.
Visiting Colorado? Don’t forget to take a look at our detailed Colorado blogs!
Table of Contents
Colorado Lakes are Shaped by Mountain Landscape
Colorado’s geography is dominated by the Rocky Mountains, which run through the western half of the state, and the Colorado Plateau, which covers the state’s southwestern corner.
The Colorado Rockies are some of the most stunning and rugged peaks in the range. The Rockies were formed over millions of years by tectonic activity, including the collision of the North American and Pacific plates, and erosion caused by glaciers, rivers, and weathering.
Colorado’s geology has played a significant role in shaping its landscapes, creating dramatic canyons, towering cliffs, and rugged peaks. Understanding the state’s geology is essential for appreciating the beauty and complexity of its natural landscapes, including its stunning lakes.
Map of Colorado Lakes – The 11 Best
The below map of Colorado lakes shows the locations of the 11 best Colorado Lakes.
For a map of lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit our blog on the 19 best lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park.
List of the 11 Best Colorado Lakes
The 11 best Colorado lakes are 1) Maroon Lake 2) Bear Lake 3) Blue Mesa Reservoir 4) Lake Dillon 5) Grand Lake 6) Emerald Lake 7) Lake San Cristobal 8) Twin Lakes 9) Lake Isabelle 10) Sprague Lake 11) Lake Estes.
Nature At Its Majestic Best: Colorado Lakes
The beauty of Colorado lakes is simply breathtaking. With stunning mountain views and pristine waters, it’s no wonder why they attract so many visitors each year.
We’ve highlighted 11 of the best lakes in Colorado, each with its own charm and character. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing escape, there’s a Colorado lake that will suit your interests.
Maroon Lake
Maroon Lake is one of Colorado’s most iconic and picturesque lakes, located (see map of Colorado lakes above) in the heart of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, just outside the town of Aspen.
The Maroon Bells, two towering peaks that rise over 14,000 feet into the sky, are often referred to as the most photographed peaks in North America.
One of the most unique and breathtaking features of Maroon Lake is the way the Maroon Bells are reflected in its waters, creating a mirror-like effect that is simply stunning. The lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters.
The surrounding wilderness area is also a beautiful sight to behold, with vibrant wildflowers, lush forests, and rugged peaks.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers, with miles of trails offering a range of difficulty levels and stunning views. In the fall, the area is particularly beautiful, with the changing colors of the aspen trees creating a breathtaking contrast against the peaks.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Maroon Lake, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. You can also take a scenic drive along Maroon Creek Road, which offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness area.
The town of Aspen is just a short drive away and offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and art galleries. In the winter, the area is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, with several ski resorts located nearby.
If you’re visiting Colorado, a trip to Maroon Lake is an absolute must-see (see map of Colorado lakes above). The natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is unparalleled!
Click here to read a detailed blog post on Maroon Lake!
Bear Lake
Bear Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (see map of Colorado lakes above). It is one of the most popular destinations in the park due to its accessibility, natural beauty, and abundance of activities.
The lake sits at an elevation of 9,450 feet, surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains that make for a picturesque backdrop.
The natural beauty of Bear Lake is unmatched, and it is one of the most scenic spots in the park. The lake is crystal clear and reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
The area around the lake is covered with dense pine forests and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, and black bears. Hiking trails around the lake lead to several other scenic spots, including Nymph Lake and Dream Lake.
Bear Lake is not only a destination in itself but also provides access to several other attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail Ridge Road, one of the best scenic drives in Colorado, can be accessed from Bear Lake.
The road winds through the park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Other popular destinations in the park, such as Emerald Lake, one of the best lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Glacier Gorge trailhead, are also easily accessible from Bear Lake (see map of Colorado lakes above).
Blue Mesa Reservoir
Blue Mesa Reservoir is the largest body of water in Colorado, covering over 20 miles in length and boasting over 96 miles of shoreline. Located in the Curecanti National Recreation Area (see map of Colorado lakes above), the lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The natural beauty of Blue Mesa Reservoir is awe-inspiring, with crystal-clear waters that are surrounded by rugged mountains and dense forests. The lake is also unique in that it has a variety of bays and coves to explore, offering visitors the chance to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.
The surrounding area is home to a range of wildlife, including bald eagles, elk, and black bears, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports. The Curecanti National Recreation Area offers hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas, as well as several other lakes and reservoirs to explore.
The nearby town of Gunnison is also a popular destination, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Whether you’re looking to fish, boat, hike, or simply relax and soak in the stunning scenery, Blue Mesa Reservoir is a destination you won’t want to miss.
Lake Dillon
Lake Dillon, also known as Dillon Reservoir, is a large body of water located in Summit County (see map of Colorado lakes above), Colorado. The lake is also surrounded by several picturesque mountain towns, making it an ideal destination for a scenic drive or day trip.
The natural beauty of Lake Dillon is stunning, with crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountain peaks. The area around the lake is also home to several hiking and biking trails, offering you the chance to explore the stunning scenery and wildlife of the surrounding mountains.
The lake is also unique in that it is home to several sunken towns and historic mining sites, adding to the area’s rich history and cultural significance.
With over 26 miles of shoreline, the lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities including fishing, boating, and kayaking.
The town of Dillon is located on the shores of the lake and offers several shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, as well as a marina offering boat rentals and guided tours.
The nearby towns of Breckenridge and Frisco also offer a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.
Grand Lake
Grand Lake is a natural lake located in Grand County, Colorado (see map of Colorado lakes above), and is the largest and deepest natural lake in the state.
The natural beauty of Grand Lake is breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountain peaks and dense forests. The lake is also unique in that it is located at the headwaters of the Colorado River, adding to its ecological significance.
The lake sits at an elevation of 8,369 feet and has over 60 miles of shoreline, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the lake by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, or take a hike on one of the several trails that surround the lake.
The town of Grand Lake is situated on the shores of the lake and offers several shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Rocky Mountain National Park is located just a short drive from the lake and offers several hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
The nearby towns of Estes Park and Winter Park also offer a range of outdoor activities, as well as several shops and restaurants.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (see map of Colorado lakes above). At an elevation of 10,110 feet, the lake is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Rockies, making it a truly breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The natural beauty of Emerald Lake is awe-inspiring, with crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding peaks and forests. The lake is also unique in that it is fed by several glaciers, adding to its ecological significance.
The hike to Emerald Lake is a popular one, with several stunning viewpoints and natural landmarks along the way. Rocky Mountain National Park offers several hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
The nearby town of Estes Park also offers several shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Lake San Cristobal
Lake San Cristobal is a picturesque natural lake located near the town of Lake City, in southwestern Colorado (see map of Colorado lakes above). At an elevation of 9,003 feet, the lake is surrounded by the stunning peaks of the San Juan Mountains, and is the second-largest natural lake in the state.
The natural beauty of Lake San Cristobal is breathtaking, with clear, blue waters that reflect the surrounding mountains and forests. The lake is also unique in that it is fed by underground springs, giving it an unparalleled level of purity.
The area surrounding the lake is largely undeveloped, making it a peaceful and serene destination for visitors. You can enjoy a range of activities at the lake, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while taking in the stunning views.
The town of Lake City is located just a short drive from the lake and offers several shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The nearby San Juan National Forest offers several hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Twin Lakes
Twin Lakes is a beautiful alpine reservoir located in central Colorado (see map of Colorado lakes above). The lake sits at an elevation of 9,200 feet and is surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests. Twin Lakes is actually comprised of two lakes, Upper and Lower, that are connected by a narrow channel.
The natural beauty of Twin Lakes is breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. The lake is also unique in that it is one of the few remaining glacial lakes in the state, formed by the melting of ancient glaciers.
The area surrounding the lakes is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and eagles, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
You can enjoy a range of outdoor activities at Twin Lakes, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The nearby Mount Elbert trailhead is a popular destination for hikers, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The area is also popular for camping, with several campgrounds located near the lakes.
While at Twin Lakes, consider the opportunity to take a scenic drive on Independence Pass, one of the best scenic drives in Colorado. The pass is a high mountain pass that connects Twin Lakes to the town of Aspen, and is one of the most scenic drives in Colorado. The road winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Lake Isabelle
Nestled in the heart of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Lake Isabelle is a stunning alpine lake located in the Front Range of Colorado (see map of Colorado lakes above). Visitors to Lake Isabelle are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic South Arapaho Peak, which rises to over 13,000 feet.
The natural beauty of Lake Isabelle and its surroundings is truly awe-inspiring. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the towering peaks and dense forests that surround it, creating a scene of stunning natural beauty.
Hiking to Lake Isabelle is an adventure in itself, with the trail winding through dense forests and alpine meadows before finally reaching the shores of the lake. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, and marmots.
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Lake Isabelle’s proximity to the iconic Arapaho Glacier, which feeds the lake with its meltwater, makes it unique. The glacier is one of the few remaining glaciers in Colorado, and is a reminder of the region’s ancient glacial past.
You can hike up to the glacier to see its stunning blue ice up close, and to gain a greater appreciation for the geological processes that have shaped this area over millions of years.
Sprague Lake
Sprague Lake is a picturesque alpine lake located in Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short drive from the town of Estes Park (see map of Colorado lakes above). The lake is surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The natural beauty of Sprague Lake and its surroundings is truly breathtaking. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a scene of stunning natural beauty.
You can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife, including elk, deer, and a variety of bird species. The area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including a variety of wildflowers and butterflies.
Hiking around the lake is a popular activity, and you can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature while taking in the stunning views.
You can also enjoy a variety of other outdoor activities, including fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The nearby Bear Lake and Glacier Gorge trailheads offer additional opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding mountains.
What makes Sprague Lake unique is its accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere. The lake is easily accessible by car, and the trail around the lake is flat and easy, making it a great destination for families with young children or older adults.
Lake Estes
Lake Estes is a stunning mountain lake located near the town of Estes Park in Larimer County, Colorado (see map of Colorado lakes above). The lake is situated at an elevation of 7,500 feet and spans over 185 acres. It was created by the Olympus Dam, which was constructed in 1947 on the Big Thompson River.
One of the unique features of Lake Estes is its picturesque setting. The lake is surrounded by towering mountain peaks, including Longs Peak, which is the highest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park.
The scenery is particularly beautiful during the fall season when the aspen trees turn golden-yellow, contrasting against the deep blue waters of the lake.
Fishing is popular, with the lake being stocked with rainbow trout and brown trout. Boating is another favorite pastime, with kayaks, paddleboats, and canoes available for rent. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and various bird species.
A unique attraction near Lake Estes is the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s novel “The Shining.” Another nearby attraction is the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, which provides a scenic ride to the top of Prospect Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Estes.
Best Colorado Lakes: A Must-Visit Destination for Nature Enthusiasts
Colorado is truly a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With so many beautiful lakes to explore, you have a variety of options to choose from (see map of Colorado lakes above).
Whether you are looking for a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the view or a place to indulge in thrilling water activities, there is a Colorado lake that can cater to your preferences.
From the stunning natural beauty of Bear Lake to the unique experiences of Lake Dillon, each lake has its own charm and distinct features that make it worth visiting.
In addition to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities, these lakes are surrounded by other attractions and activities that are perfect for a full day or even a weekend trip. From hiking and camping to sightseeing and shopping, there is no shortage of things to do in the area.
Overall, Colorado lakes are some of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the world. The calm waters, majestic mountains, and serene landscapes make them ideal for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
No matter which lake you choose to visit, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
