4 guests Head over to Cherry Creek State Park just outside of Denver to find this remote reservoir where sailboats, paddle boats, and leisure boats cruise the calm waters. Meet the “flexcation,” the new travel trend hitting Colorado during the pandemic, Last hit: Get hooked on these 5 great vacation spots for fly-fishing, Up next: Colorado state parks will be free on Monday in honor of Colorado Day, 5 tiny homes in Colorado that are perfect for a summer getaway, Choose your own Colorado hot spring adventure, from ghost towns to underground caves. Vail is filled with snow-capped mountains and luxury cabins where you and your squad can have a one-of-a-kind bachelorette party. Wake up in a cozy rental in Aurora or Englewood before heading out to the Cherry Creek Marina and Yacht Club or relaxing at the sandy beach on the northeastern shoreline. Swimming, boating, fishing and relaxing are just a few of the ways to pass time at the lake. The daily entrance fee is $10 per vehicle; annual passes start at $65. There are no designated swim beaches here, but you are allowed to take a dip in the 65-degree water if you dare. A Colorado beach is a sandy oasis on a lake’s shore. Use these Colorado fishing tips Fly fishing on the Poudre River. You can also fish, take a sailing class and rent a grill here. Cherry Creek Reservoir in Aurora, Colorado offers a treasure trove of outdoor activities for the whole family. But a happy side effect of this decision was the creation of … Once you’ve had your fill of the lake, tennis courts, a huge pool, 18-hole championship golf and three restaurants await.The Estes Park Res… #9 Best Value of 12 Party Hotels in Colorado “ It was literally the best spot for a team party with a lot of open space, tables, and a couple of booths set up. Lake Appeal: A party oasis for pretty much the entire western half of the … Colorado’s largest body of water is the perfect vacation spot for finding a luxury vacation rental perched on the lake shore. In … Steamboat Springs has become a foodie destination. Throughout Colorado — there are many breathtaking campgrounds situated along the edge of lakes. It’s a long, narrow body of water nestled against the foothills west of Fort Collins, so the setting is uniquely Colorado. Spread out your towel at the swim beach or head out onto the water to cruise around or fish. Lake Granby One of the best lakes in Colorado to live on is Lake Granby. An edition of The Denver Post. 71,000 acres of forest, jagged peaks, alpine lakes, wildlife, and miles of trails mark this state park as the ultimate adventure. After a day on the wayer, head back to your relaxing vacation rental in the small, laid-back town of Dolores or Cortez. #20 Best Value of 20 Fishing Resorts in Colorado “ From the idyllic setting on the banks of the Platt River, and the wonderful staff, fantastic food to the world-class fishing , this is the place to come if you want … Afterward, head back to your campsite or cabin and get out your binoculars — you can see eagles, osprey, bluebirds, goldfinches and other birds here. ∙ https://www.planetware.com/colorado/best-lakes-in-colorado-us-co-96.htm With water temperatures hovering around 73 degrees in mid-July, a dip in the water is cool and refreshing indeed. Can’t go to Europe? You can also hit the water on a powerboat or a human-powered vessel like a canoe or paddleboard; Chatfield is divided into zones (like the Power Zone and the No Wake Zone) so that everyone playing on the water gets along. This list showcases some of the best lake rentals Colorado has to offer. Video and descriptions of some of the best Alpine Lakes in Colorado.Be sure to Subscribe as I have many more best of videos on the way. 1. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed for any commercial purpose. Entry to the northern Boulder reservoir fees are $7 for adults, $4 for kids and $5 for seniors. ∙ Turn on JavaScript so our search engine can do its magic. South Bay is where a lot of the action happens at Horsetooth — it’s home to some of the more popular camping spots, as well as a swim beach. Plan your trip for the winter to enjoy snowmobiling and cross-country skiing with breathtaking views of a frozen Grand Lake. If the smell of cheese and pepperoni filling the air while you’re relaxing on your sunpad … There are no lifeguards on duty, but there are picnic sites, a concession stand and two sand volleyball courts, plus designated lap swimming lanes if you want to get a workout in. Jet skiing and water skiing are allowed at Chatfield, as long as you’re in the proper zone. Pearl Lake is managed in conjunction with Steamboat Lake to the north, but it is much smaller and attracts a quieter family crowd. These unique campgrounds give you the chance to lie on a beach, swim, or even boat while … Can you travel to the mountains to hike, ski under the new COVID-19 restrictions? Lakeside fun never runs dry at Chatfield Reservoir, a water body known for its sandy beach during the summer months and ice-fishing opportunities during the winter. All rights reserved. Lake San Cristobal. Six free, socially distanced, in-person Christmas wonderlands to check out in Denver this month, A day at Denver's new cult-favorite bakery in Highland that sells out within two hours. From the popular beaches of Grand Lake to the secluded shores of Lake Dillon, here are some of the best lakes to find Colorado vacation rentals for an unforgettable getaway at any time of year. 2 bedrooms, Condo You can also rent a boat at Dillon Marina or even take a sailing class. Dreaming of a day at the beach while living in landlocked Colorado? From short day hikes close to the city to multi-day backpacking trips deep in Rocky Mountain National Park, these adventures will take you to some of the most beautiful mountain lakes … While the reservoir has no sandy beaches, vacationers can boat to several swimming areas. Be sure to hike the lake’s famous Can Do Trail for unbeatable mountain views year round. The town of Grand Lake offers plenty of stylish lakeside rentals while the bustling vacation atmosphere caters to families with events such as the Lipton Cup Races and a summer concert series. You can also look for places in nearby Gunnison, a fun college town. However, you don't have to be on the … Cherry Creek Reservoir also boasts 35 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding and biking, and the quiet wilderness area is ideal for spotting mule deer and other wildlife. You can also rent many types of boats at Horsetooth, which is a popular spot for water skiing, and fishing. You can also rent a fishing boat to try your luck catching trout from the cold waters of this alpine lake. ∙ State Forest is Colorado’s moose-viewing capital too, where over 600 moose are … Lake Buchanan is a haven for … The adorable Wolfeboro – population: roughly 6,000 – hugs the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest in the wee … Drop Anchor: Hit up Zephr Cove in South Lake Tahoe for its beachside bar, sand volleyball, and annual Hot Body Contest. Rent a speed boat or fishing boat from Grand Lake Marina, or kick back at the beach and boardwalk. As soon as you drive by Blue Mesa Reservoir in Gunnison County, you start to get a hankering for a lake day here. The summer heat warms up the water to make these spots a perfect place to swim and lounge. If you don’t have your own boat or flotation device, you can rent a paddleboard, kayak, canoe or pedal boat at the lake. During the winter, Blue Mesa Reservoir is a popular ice fishing destination. Find your vacation … There are also two marinas here where you can rent boats, paddleboards, kayaks and more, plus stock up on souvenirs, snacks and fishing supplies. “ Caitlin at the front desk also was very pleasant and helpful on the day of the actual party . Lake San Cristobal At 2.1 miles long and almost 90 feet deep at its deepest point, Lake San Cristobal is the second largest natural lake in Colorado. The Lakewood park is also a fun place to go fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking or walking and running. While there, be sure to grab a bite at the Island Grill Restaurant or load up on snacks and gear at the marina office and store. You can rent everything from pedal boats to pontoons — and everything in between — at the reservoir. Despite being completely landlocked, Colorado has quite a few options when it comes to swimming, hanging out on the beach, renting a boat or fishing. Entrance permits are $9 per vehicle ($18 for a vehicle with a boat trailer) and annual passes range from $10 to $120. Then, when the cooler climes of winter roll in, its time to pop up the ice-fishing shack, or … As you might expect, its all about the lake here. ), picnicking or coasting along the water on your standup paddleboard. Colorado may be landlocked but that doesn’t mean the state doesn’t boast some sandy and scenic beaches. A daily park pass is $10 and an annual pass starts at $83. ∙ The Chatfield Reservoir, also known as Chatfield lake, was created by the Army Corps in 1966 to help control flooding in the area. The 880-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir in Arapahoe County is the perfect place to cool off if you don’t want to drive far. 18 places you can rent a boat in landlocked Colorado. There’s a swim beach on the west side of the reservoir where you’ll find picnic tables, small grills, restrooms and showers (but no lifeguards on duty). Although Colorado has some of the best fishing locations in the U.S., some of its streams, lakes… Horsetooth Reservoir is located near Fort Collins, making it the ideal lake for younger vacationers looking for a full vacation with breweries, museums, and more. Look for a convenient vacation rental around Knob Hill or Downtown Colorado Springs for easy access to Prospect Lake and other Colorado Springs attractions. Sign up for our weekly entertainment and outdoors emails to get news and weekend plans sent right to your inbox. Make a weekend out of it by heading to nearby Cataract Lake and Falls for some hiking. Cheyenne Mountain ResortThis mountain-nestled resort in Colorado Springs will keep you busy from dawn to dusk without ever having to leave its grounds. RELATED:18 places you can rent a boat in landlocked Colorado. ∙ ∙ Some good spots are the Bay of Chickens, Dry Creek and the Old Highway 50 beach, which is next to the Elk Creek campground. ∙ The reservoir also has a sandy swim beach, complete with lifeguards and a sand volleyball court. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get outdoors news sent straight to your inbox. If you don’t have time to retreat to the mountains and bask in the cooler temperatures, a good alternative is spending a day (or two) by the water. ∙ There are also new walkways and promenades along the shore and greater separation between paddle-sport boats and motorized vehicles in the bay and on land. Photo: AJ Schroetlin Worst fishing locations in Colorado. Lake Isabelle is located 2.1 miles from the Long Lake Trailhead in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. This alpine lake studded with pine-covered islands boasts 26 miles of shoreline and spectacular mountain views. ∙ ∙ It is 20 miles long with 96 miles of shoreline. Situated on the western edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest natural lake — an idyllic spot for scenic lounging near glassy waters and poignant peaks. Situated near Grand Lake and the vibrant town of Granby, this alpine lake is one of the largest lakes in the state. For some, a vacation is a chance to chill, to sit in a hammock or lie on a beach and let time pass by…but if that’s not your idea of a good time…if you have enough monotony or routine every day and you’re looking to let off a little steam, let your hair down and PARTY!! Lake Grandby has two sister lakes: Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake. Resting just outside Rocky Mountain National Park, the largest natural lake in the state is a major draw year-round. You’re not imagining it: It’s been hot this summer in Colorado. Big Muscamoot Bay on Lake Saint Clair is the best place to be for parties and pizza (thanks to the S.S. Pizza Boat). This lake in the San Juan Mountains is the ideal spot for viewing elk, moose, and Canada geese from your rented canoe or kayak. 6 guests 4 bedrooms, House Find vacation rentals near Cherry Creek Reservoir. Chatfield Reservoir. Look to the small town of Dillon for quiet vacation rentals, and spend your vacation fishing for brook trout and salmon. The town is famous for its charming historic downtown district and the beautiful Hudson Gardens. PHOTOS: There was a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event in the sky above Colorado Monday night. Along with some of the country’s best … Don’t miss the high-elevation Lake Granby Yacht Club’s race series that take place every summer. 4 guests Here’s how to eat and drink your way through town. Not only one of the best lakes in Colorado, Blue Mesa Reservoir is also the largest body of water in Colorado. Western fashion, cannabis and plant love: Colorado trends that went big in 2020, Celestial event not seen since 1226 happening this month with amazing conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn. All contents Copyright © 2020 The Denver Post or other copyright holders. America’s Top Ten Party Lakes. Cherry Creek Reservoir. If your ideal lake day involves your dog, you’ll want to head to the south side of the reservoir, where there’s a designated off-leash swim beach. Wikimedia Commons. This state park is also home to 35 miles of multi-use trails, an amazing off-leash dog area, a campground and more, so be sure to extend your stay to check it all out. The reservoir, which is part of Curecanti National Recreation Area, spans 20 miles and has 96 miles of shoreline. The summertime favorite is also known for its wealth of hiking and biking trails that skirt the shoreline. ∙ 8 guests Chatfield, located south of Littleton, also has 26 miles of bicycle trails (12 miles that are paved) if you want to bring your bike along for your lake day. Longmont’s Union Reservoir has a little something for everyone. Enjoy your boat as Colorado is home to more than 2,000 lakes and reservoirs: Chatfield Reservoir Chatfield Reservoir is a Denver Water flood-control reservoir along the South Platte River that is a … ∙ Ask anyone in Northern Colorado and they’ll point you in the direction of Horsetooth Reservoir for a lake day. Apartment Frisco Bay Marina is also a great spot to rent a motorized boat or a standup paddleboard, canoe or kayak for exploring the 3,300-acre reservoir. Although Twin Lakes are considered glacial lakes… Find the best Lakes on Yelp: search reviews of 9 Colorado Springs businesses by price, type, or location. 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