Colorado Lakes & Reservoirs

Copyright: Zander Higbie-Interactive Outdoors, Inc. Sunset over Lake Dillon from Sapphire Point Overlook

Attractions - The lakes and reservoirs included in this list range from small mountain lakes surrounded by snow capped peaks, to large reservoirs with beaches and boating facilities. This list includes primarily lakes and reservoirs with developed recreation facilities. Some of the most popular large reservoirs include Cherry Creek, Chatfield, Barr Lake, Lake Granby, Rifle Gap, Green Mountain, Lake Granby and Horsetooth. Pearl Lake and Sylvan Lake are two of the smaller mountain lakes included here. Many of these lakes offer adjacent campgrounds and are part of the Colorado State Parks system.

Recreation - Most of these lakes and reservoirs offer opportunities for fishing, boating, camping and picnicking. Many of the larger reservoirs offer more water sports such as swimming and water skiing. Because of the high elevations, many mountain lakes and reservoirs are frozen in the winter months and very cold even in the summer.

Climate - The climate in Colorado varies tremendously from hot dusty summer days to frigidly cold winter nights. Colorado is known for its thunderstorms which form over the Rocky Mountains and then head across the eastern plains, often reaching 10,000 feet or more in height. Lightning is a serious threat, particularly on mountain peaks, lakes and open fields. Summertime temperatures routinely reach 90 to 100 degrees on the plains and the 70 - 80 degrees in the mountains. Cool weather is always possible at night throughout Colorado, particularly at higher elevations. It is not uncommon to need both shorts and a jacket on the same day.

The winter routinely brings severe winter driving conditions with icy roads and limited visibility. Temperatures range from the 40s and 50s on the plains to well below zero in the mountains. Proper winter clothing and food is necessary to avoid hypothermia and one should be prepared to spend an unexpected night out if traveling in the backcountry or on the highways.

Location - Colorado's Lakes and Reservoirs are scattered throughout the state. Maps and driving instructions are available on the wildernet.com pages describing each lake or reservoir.