|| Find your Next Adventure ||
Are you itching to get out and paddle but don’t know where to go? Luckily for you, Colorado is home to over 2,000 lakes and reservoirs, making it a hot spot for paddleboarding. Whether you are looking for a scenic spot, leisure paddle, camping, or even places to rent boards, Colorado has it all! After talking with a few locals and based on first-hand experience, we have put together a few locations in the Colorado area to get you, friends, and family out on the water.
–Scenic Spots–
As we all know the mountains here are beautiful, but where can you go to truly experience the scenery of it all? According to a CO local, Lauren, Pearl Lake is top of her list of most scenic places to take your SUP.
Pearl Lakes
Pearl Lakes is located near Steamboat Springs, about 5 hours from Denver. Although it more of a weekend trip, it is surrounded by breathtaking views. To enter the park, a vehicle day pass is only $9 and you can find both backcountry camping along with campsites on a first come first serve basis. There are even multiple points around the lake to drop your SUPs in and don’t worry, dogs are welcome!
For more information visit: https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/PearlLake
Gross Reservoir
Another scenic spot a little closer to Denver is Gross Reservoir. It is only about an hour away from the city and is home to stunning canyon views. There is no entry free but since Gross Reservoir is used for drinking water and can experience low water temperatures, there are a few regulations. This particular body of water is off-limits to boats, swimming, and dogs, but don’t let that deter you away from how gorgeous the surroundings are. Pack up your SUP and head out for a paddle with views all around.
For more information visit: https://www.uncovercolorado.com/activities/gross-reservoir/
–Leisure Spots–
Chatfield Reservoir
Sometimes you just want to get away from the chaos that follows boats and paddle on smooth water, well your in luck! Next on our list is going to be the best places to take your SUP for a leisure paddle (aka no motorboats). First up is Chatfield Reservior, but more specifically the Gravel Pond. You can purchase a $10 day pass at the front gate and includes many amenities such as an off-leash dog park, camping, boating, and a specific body of water just for paddlesports. The Gravel Pond is a separate area just south of the main reservoir and is the perfect spot to bring the family.
Aurora Reservoir
Next up is Aurora Reservoir, which is a great location if you are looking to escape just outside the city and paddle without a boat in sight. Since all types of motor vehicles are prohibited on the water, it has become a hotspot for all types of paddle sports. You can purchase a day pass for only $10 but be sure to leave pets at home since they are not allowed on the water.
Monarch Lake
Lastly is Monarch Lake which is located a few hours east from Denver in Granby. LaDonna is a local who recommended Monarch Lake as one of her favorite spots for a nice, leisure paddle since it is closed off to all boats and is in the heart of the mountains. This body of water is considered part of ‘The Great Lakes of Colorado’ yet unlike the other reservoirs in this group, it is the only body of water that is specifically open to only paddlesports. There are also hiking trails all along the lake giving people access to virtually any part of its shoreline.
More places to consider:
Standley Lake, Blue Mesa Reservoir, Horsetooth Reservoir, Lake Dillon