Source: Flickr
For daring adventurers, paddle boarding has become a favorite water sport for discovering beautiful landscapes from the water itself, unlike any other way imaginable. Colorado is blessed with nature's best, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts to bring their paddle boards. Whether you glide over serene lakes or navigate through winding streams, paddle boarding in Colorado offers an unforgettable experience. Here are the 15 best places for your paddle boarding Colorado journey and things you should know.
DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a paddle location, ensure that the location still allows for paddle boarding and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.
Do You Need a Permit to Paddle Board in Colorado?
When exploring stunning lakes and rivers in Colorado, it’s crucial to know if you need a paddle boarding Colorado permit. This assessment helps you concentrate on admiring the breathtaking view of nature found in Colorado.
Source: Flickr
15 of the Best Places To SUP around Colorado
Different places for paddle boarding Colorado trips meet the wants and abilities of every paddle boarder. These 15 places define what you can get in Colorado, from silent lakes to the more daring rivers.
1. Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake
Infused with mountain beauty are the Shadow Mountain Lake and Grand Lake, which are located next to Rocky Mountain National Park with calm waters.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: The surface is quite smooth without ripples.
- Skill Levels: For all users.
- Launching Points: Numerous access trails around the lakeside.
- Amenities: Proximity to camping sites, fishing zones, and hiking paths.
- Unique Features: Lovely peaks make great sunrises or sunset paddling times.
Pro Tip: Paddle the canal. There is a scenic, paddle-able waterway that connects Grand Lake to Shadow Mountain Lake, allowing you to explore both in one trip.
2. Prospect Lake
Nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, Prospect Lake is an easily reachable and practical place for both locals and tourists.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Tranquil, urban lake
- Skill Levels: Suitable for beginners and leisure paddlers
- Launching Points: Simple to access from Memorial Park
- Amenities: Picnic spots, children’s play areas, and restroom facilities
- Unique Features: Centrally located, ideal for quick paddling sessions
Pro Tip: Check the permit. You generally need a daily or annual permit ($5-$50) to paddle here; buy it at the boathouse or vending machine before launching.
3. Dillon Reservoir
Dillon Reservoir, also known as Lake Dillon, remains among the best lakes to paddle board in Colorado. The lake is situated in the mountains and has wide waters with stunning views.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Cold mountain lakes, occasionally breezy
- Skill Levels: Intermediate or experienced as it can be windy
- Launching Points: Marina access points, various boat ramps
- Amenities: Nearby marinas, camping grounds and restaurants
- Unique Features: Magnificent mountain sights to enjoy in the long trips
Pro Tip: Dress for the freeze. The water is frigid (60°F). While SUP is allowed, swimming is prohibited, so a wetsuit is recommended strictly for safety in case you fall in.
4. Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park
Enthusiasts can do stand up paddle board in Glenwood Springs White Water Park for a more thrilling adventure.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: A river possessing managed rapids
- Skill Levels: Experts
- Launch Points: Specific entry points to a whitewater park
- Amenities: Proximity to thermal baths, hotels, and food
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Unique Features: Artificial whitewater structures, best for paddle boarding surfing.
Pro Tip: Safety Gear. Do not use a standard ankle leash here; use a quick-release waist leash to prevent getting snagged on underwater rocks. Helmets are a must.
5. Vallecito Lake
A gem hidden from sight, Vallecito Lake is situated near Durango and offers serene paddling opportunities in a pristine mountain environment.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Clean, still water
- Skill Levels: Preferable to all levels
- Launch Points: Different access points on the lake
- Facilities: Campsites, fishing spots, and hiking trails close by
- Uncommon Features: Neighboring wilderness, best for a calm day on the water.
Pro Tip: Visit in September. This is one of the best spots in the state to view the changing Aspen leaves from the water without the heavy crowds of Northern Colorado.
6. Trout Lake
Trout Lake is located at a high-altitude lake and close to Telluride, becoming one of the best places in the state for paddle boarding.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Calm, cold body of water
- Skill Levels: For all skills, yet you still need to prepare yourself for the altitude
- Launch Points: Limited points where people can launch their boats
- Amenities: Basic camping areas located around it
- Unique Features: Crystal-clear water and lofty mountain slopes encircle the lake.
Pro Tip: No Motors Allowed. Since motorized boats are prohibited, this is the safest and quietest spot for beginners to practice stability.
7. Chatfield Reservoir
Located in Littleton, this is one of the most popular SUP spots for Denver residents.
- Types of Water: Calm in "No Wake" zones, choppy in the center.
- Skill Levels: All levels.
- Launch Points: The Gravel Pond (specifically for non-motorized craft), the Swim Beach area, and the North/South boat ramps.
- Amenities: Full-service marina with rentals and a floating restaurant, large campground, sandy swim beach, restrooms, and picnic areas.
- Unique Features: It features a completely separate Gravel Pond isolated from the main reservoir, allowing paddlers to enjoy the water without worrying about the wakes from speedboats.
Pro Tip: Head to the Gravel Pond. Within Chatfield State Park, there is a separate, smaller body of water called the "Gravel Pond." It is non-motorized only, making it much calmer and safer for SUP beginners than the main reservoir.
8. McPhee Reservoir
McPhee Reservoir is one of the largest bodies of water in Colorado, making it an excellent spot for extended paddle boarding Colorado.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Calm, expansive reservoir
- Skill Levels: Suitable for all levels
- Launch Points: Multiple access points
- Amenities: Camping, fishing, and SUP board rentals in Colorado are available
- Unique Features: Less crowded, ideal for long-distance paddling
Pro Tip: Morning Moose Watch. Paddle quietly along the marshy shorelines early in the morning; this area is famous for moose sightings.
9. Lake San Cristobal
Nestled in the West Elk Mountains, Lake San Cristobal is a breathtaking destination for paddlers and nature lovers alike, as it is Colorado's second-largest natural lake.
Source: Flickr
- Water Types: Coldwater and calm
- Skill levels: Suitable for all levels
- Launch Point: Available from publicly owned places
- Amenities: Alongside this are refocusing pathways and camping opportunities
- Uniqueness: Beautiful turquoise-colored water, enclosed by mountains
Pro Tip: The Dillon Pinnacles. Launch from the designated Pinnacles trailhead to paddle beneath massive volcanic rock formations - the best view on the lake.
10. Blue Mesa Reservoir
The biggest body of water within Colorado Blue Mesa Reservoir has continuous chances for paddle boarding.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Large reservoir, can become windy
- Skill Levels: From intermediate to advanced
- Launch Points: Many marinas and access points
- Amenities: Complete-service marinas, camping and fishing
- Special Traits: A huge expanse of water suitable for long-distance paddling
Pro Tip: Avoid the Swim Beach. Launch away from the main swim beach to avoid swimmers. Note that powerboats are prohibited, ensuring calm wake.
11. Big Soda Lake
Paddlers residing within the city limits can find a convenient metropolitan life beyond Denver’s borders at the Big Soda Lake.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Tranquil, small lake
- Skill Levels: Ideal for all levels
- Launch Points: Easily accessible from Bear Creek Lake Park
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic spots, and rental establishments
- Unique Features: Located close to Denver, suitable for short paddle trips
12. Boulder Reservoir
Colorado is a stunning mountainous state and the Boulder Reservoir is one of the most popular places to paddle board in Colorado. The lake is large and has enough space for paddling.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Smooth, slightly wavering
- Skill Proficiency: All levels
- Launching Points: Various, including a marina
- Amenities: Picnic sites, toilets, and boat rental shops
- Special attractions: Nearness to Boulder, making it ideal for fun and physical fitness activities.
Pro Tip: The "Morning Gliding" Pass. If you are a serious paddler, look into the early morning access passes to get on the water before the wake boats and crowds arrive.
13. Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir has a long narrow shape and thus offers several paddling choices for paddle boarders.
Source: Flickr
- Types of Water: Depending on where one is located, it can be serene or windy
- Skill Levels: Suitable for all levels
- Launch Points: Several launching pads and access ways
- Amenities: Camping, hiking trailheads, and areas for picnics
- Unique Features: Amazing rock structures and hidden bays
Pro Tip: Stick to Satanka Cove. To avoid heavy boat traffic and wakes, stay in the "No Wake" zones like Satanka Cove or near the shorelines of the inlets.
14. Bear Creek Lake Park
Popular with residents, Bear Creek Lake Park is one of the top paddle boarding near Colorado Springs. This tranquil and small water body is ideal for an easygoing paddle around.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
- Types of Water: Quiet little lake
- Skill Levels: Beginner-friendly
- Launch Points: Possible parking lot access
- Amenities: Places to picnic, bathrooms, and rent spots
- Unique Features: Family-oriented and close to Colorado Springs
Pro Tip: Arrive by 9 AM. On summer weekends, the park often hits capacity and closes the gates to vehicles by mid-morning. Go early to guarantee entry.
15. Union Reservoir
The Union Reservoir, located in Longmont, is an extremely tranquil area for a calm day of paddling.
Source: Flickr
- Water Types: Tranquil water-filled small lakes
- Skill Levels: Suitable for all levels
- Launching Points: Easy access from marked regions
- Amenities: Places to eat lunch outside, toilets, and places to catch fish
- Unique Features: Quiet, not so many people around so it is easier to paddle on the water
Pro Tip: Bring your pup. This is one of the few "Dog Beaches" in Colorado where dogs are allowed to swim off-leash, making it the #1 spot for SUP with a pup
Best Times of Year to Paddle Around Colorado
Knowing the best seasons and conditions according to different levels can help you spend quality time on the water.
For Beginners & Recreational Paddlers
Summer season is the best time to explore places to paddle board in Colorado for beginners or those who prefer leisurely paddling with stand up paddle board Colorado. June until August provides the warmest moments with generally favored weather, making it great for casual outings.
Also, you need to go early in the morning or after 5 PM if you don’t like the hot sun and crowds at sea.
For Experienced Paddlers
When considering paddle board in Colorado, April through May and September through early October are prime times for more demanding conditions. There will be fewer crowds around and possibly more interesting water situations during this period, specifically in windy or gusty places or where there are some streams.
It’s an opportunity to increase one’s prowess while relishing an experience alone on the water's surface at its east.
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