Paddleboarding in Colorado 2024 - The Best Lakes in the Rocky Mountains
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Where to go Paddleboarding in Colorado 2024
Are you looking for some great Rocky Mountain paddle boarding adventures in Colorado? Then look no further!
Though the sport of stand up paddleboarding originated in Hawaii, it has quickly become the hottest paddle sport to do on rivers and lakes all over Colorado.
Get ready to have an amazing time on the water by learning about the best places to paddle board in Colorado.
Paddleboarding in Colorado is a fast growing paddle sport in Colorado
What is paddleboarding?
Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is a popular water sport activity that involves standing up on a board and using one long paddle to make your way through waters.
We love to stand up paddle on lakes or slow moving rivers in our sunny, glorious state, so we are always on the lookout for the best paddle boarding adventures in Colorado.
For the ultimate fun, we say travel with your own inflatable paddleboards. Then you can hop on lakes and reservoirs from sun up to sun down — on your time. You’ll pay yourself back within a dozen times on the water.
We’ve hopped on many different SUPs and nothing beats exploring beautiful alpine lakes in Colorado on an Isle inflatable SUP — the best paddle board you can travel with and paddle anywhere.
Our favorite Paddleboards
For extra large fun, we’ve spent hours of fun on the Megalodon — made for 3-4 folks and all your gear.
Paddleboarding in Colorado with Kids - don’t forget your life jackets!
Discover the Best Lakes in Colorado for Paddleboarding
From city parks to alpine lakes and reservoirs, we’ve got you covered. There’s even a slow moving river or two listed below.
Without further ado, discover 39 of the best places to paddle board in Colorado.
Where to Paddle board in Colorado
Table of Contents
Paddleboarding in Colorado Springs area
North Slope Recreation Area on Pikes Peak - 3 reservoirs!
Rampart Reservoir
Prospect Lake
Palmer Lake
Monument Lake
Chatfield Reservoir
Cherry Creek Reservoir
Bear Creek Lake and Big Soda Lake
Union Reservoir
Places to Paddle Board in the Colorado Mountains
Buena Vista and nearby
San Juan Mountains - Million Dollar Highway Area
Paddling in Colorado State Parks
Take your SUP to North Catamount Reservoir on Pikes Peak Hwy in Colorado Springs
Paddleboarding in Colorado Springs
There a numerous options for paddling in Colorado Springs and the reservoirs around Pikes Peak definitely dole out the views.
North Slope Recreation Area on Pikes Peak
Make a bee line for the North Slope Recreation Area on Pikes Peak where you score three lakes for stand up paddling — all for the price of one!
Explore coves and enjoy the views above 9,200’ while paddleboarding in Colorado Springs. Head up early and spend the day on these three cold water reservoirs along Pikes Peak Highway:
North Catamount Reservoir
South Catamount Reservoir*
Crystal Creek Reservoir
You’ll pay a small fee to drive up Pikes Peak Hwy to reach these reservoirs, but it is well worth it.
PRO TIP: Make sure you tell the attendant if you’re not driving all the way to the top of Pikes Peak; your entrance fee will be much cheaper. Driving Pikes Peak Hwy requires a reservation.
In addition to launching your SUP in Colorado Springs, you can fish here for Brook, Brown, Cutbow, Cutthroat, Lake and Rainbow trout. Enthusiasts test their fly-fishing skills at secluded North Catamount Reservoir where only flies and lures are allowed.
Max out your fun by fishing from your paddleboard. The Isle Megaladon is big enough for 3-4 persons, or you and your dog(s) AND all of your gear, making it dynamite to fish from.
You’ll find plenty of great hiking and mountain biking trails up here on Pikes Peak too!
*Colorado Springs Utilities is preparing to rehabilitate the dam at South Catamount Reservoir. Construction activity will span the 2024-2025 seasons. Learn more about the project by visiting South Catamount Dam Rehabilitation Project (csu.org)
The ISLE Megalodon is big enough and sturdy enough for you and all your friends
How to get there: From Colorado Springs take Hwy 24 west or, from Woodland Park take Hwy 24 east, to the Pikes Peak Highway exit in Cascade. Follow the signs to the Pikes Peak Highway entry gate. Grab a map at the gate.
Entry Fees: The fee is $5 per person (16 years and older), and children under 16 are free to go to the reservoirs. Due to the limited parking at the North Catamount and South Catamount Reservoirs a parking pass reservation is recommended from May 1st to mid October. A Colorado fishing license is required for those 16 and older.
Be clear with the the Pikes Peak Highway gate attendant exactly where you are headed so you are charged the appropriate entry fee. Driving Pikes Peak Hwy all the way to the top also requires a reservation. NOTE: South Catamount Reservoir will be under construction 2024-2025.
Rampart Reservoir
Rampart Reservoir is a 500-surface-acre lake northwest of Colorado Springs and just outside of Woodland Park.
Locals head here for fishing, camping, hiking and mountain biking, and it’s also a stunning destination for flat-water kayaking and canoeing, and paddleboarding.
Enjoy sweeping, gorgeous views at 9,000 feet. Find shaded campsites in the summer at Thunder Ridge and Meadow Ridge campgrounds, just before the reservoir.
We love to fish from our paddleboard on Rampart Reservoir too. You’ll discover numerous coves from which to cast your line and perfect your SUP skills.
You’ll find group picnic areas around the shores on Rampart Reservoirs with tables and bathroom facilities. Park at the Homestake Fishing Site sign and head down to the shore.
How to Get There: To get to Rampart Reservoir from I-25 in Colorado Springs, take U.S. Highway 24 west to Woodland Park. Turn right on Baldwin Street and drive out of town (road becomes Rampart Range Road). When you reach a Y, turn right; when the pavement ends, turn right again. Follow this road to an intersection – the road to the reservoir is paved from this point on. The other fork is unpaved, and leads back down to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. (You can reach Rampart from Colorado Springs on this road, but it’s not maintained well and is rocky and very slow.)
The Rampart Reservoir recreation area is open year round. The reservoir is open from mid-May through mid-October, depending on weather.
Camping in spacious shaded campsites is available in the summer at Thunder Ridge and Meadow Ridge campgrounds. Aim for a site with a view of the lake.
Entry Fees: $6 day use fee
Prospect Lake
From sunrise to sunset, enjoy amazing views of Pikes Peak and one of the area's only swimming beaches.
On Prospect Lake, all watercraft use is by permit only, and
No swimming or wading allowed, unless in the designated beach area.
Dogs are allowed on a leash in the surrounding lake areas.
Rent a board at the beach house or bring your own paddleboard. Please note, paddleboards do need a permit and daily passes are available at the boat launch kiosk for $5 per vessel. Season passes are available for $50 at the Sertich Ice Center.
Quail Lake in Colorado Springs
PRO TIP: Nearby Quail Lake is also a great place to take your best paddle board in Colorado Springs. 915 Cheyenne Mountain Blvd. From here, you are really close to hikes in North Cheyenne Canyon.
How to Get to Prospect Lake: 619 Prospect Lake Drive, Colorado Springs, CO, United States, Colorado
Fees: Non-motorized $5 boating permit. There is non-motorized day permit kiosk that is available 24 hours (located by the boat ramp)
Palmer Lake Regional Recreation Area
Found along the New Sante Fe Trail with a cool pedestrian bridge over to the fun part of town, Palmer Lake is a great small lake to launch your SUP.
The Palmer Lake Recreational Area is a 36-acre regional recreation site nestled at the foot of picturesque Ben Lomand Mountain.
Dog friendly and great for families. No swimming allowed, but bring your shade canopies and a picnic and stay for the day!
The lake and a long stretch of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail provide many open vistas and beautiful surroundings. A walking path winds around the southern half of the willow-lined lake. Head to Rock House Ice Cream or the Speed Trap to cool off with ice cream, coffee, or beer.
How to Get There: Palmer Lake Recreation Area can be reached from Interstate 25, exit 161, then northwest on Highway 105 for approximately 5 miles; east at County Line Road to the park entrance. 199 County Line Road, Palmer Lake, CO 80133
Entry Fees: None
Palmer Lake Colorado
Monument Lake
Just five miles north of the Air Force Academy, the sweet town of Monument and Monument Lake offer calm waters and free, paddle boarding opportunities.
While on the smaller side, this is a great lake to launch your SUP and throw out a fishing line.
From Monument Lake, you can explore the Colorado’s rolling hills into the Pike National Forest. We love the hiking trails in Palmer Lake.
There is a nice system of trails to explore around Mount Herman and Monument Rock with alpine vistas, seasonal wildflowers, and the chance to view the wildlife of the Rampart Range.
You’ll find group picnic areas around the shores on Monument Lake with tables and bathroom facilities. Swimming is prohibited in Monument Lake.
How to Get To Monument Lake: You’ll find Monument off I-25 and 105 Hwy before reaching Palmer Lake. Follow I-25 N to CO-105 W in Monument. Take exit 161 and drivce CO-105 W 1.3 miles to your destination.
Entry Fees: None
Helpful maps for Colorado Springs
Pocket Pals Trail Maps offers a fantastic waterfproof, tear-resistant map for all the great hikes around the lakes mentioned above
Our readers can use promo code 10%OFF here when you buy to receive 10% OFF any of Pocket Pals digital and waterproof paper maps.
For example, their Pikes Peak Area Trail Map #9 covers 9 Colorado hiking trails in the North Recreation Area.
Use promo code 10%OFF to receive 10% OFF any POCKET PALS TRAIL MAPS — click the map image above to buy your waterproof map for Colorado Springs hiking trails
Hiking trails and so many things to do in Colorado Springs, like Garden of the Gods
Where to Stay in Colorado Springs
For a group of 8, this home is right where you want to be in Colorado Springs
This super cute 3 bedroom home comes with a hot tub and is right by Prospect Lake.
Live like a local in this little cottage perfect for 4 people — and you can walk to downtown.
Top 3 Breweries in Colorado Springs
Goat Patch Brewing Company 2727 N Cascade Ave #123, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Cerberus Brewing Company 702 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
Fossil Craft Brewery 2845 Ore Mill Rd #1, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Paddleboarding on Chatfield Reservoir
Paddleboarding in Denver
Chatfield Reservoir in Chatfield State Park
Larger than nearby Cherry Creek Reservoir, Chatfield Lake lies on the South Platte River at its confluence with Plum Creek, near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains about 25 miles southwest of downtown Denver. The lake is 2 miles long and has an average depth of 47 feet.
Many feel Chatfield Reservoir is one of the better places for paddleboarding near Denver.
Paddleboarding is allowed in all bodies of water at Chatfield, with the exception of the designated swim area. All Colorado Boating Statutes and Regulations apply, including use of a personal floatation device.
When the reservoir is full, you could paddle over 8 miles around the shoreline. Be sure to give fishermen a wide birth so as not to get tangled in their lines. You may spy birds and mule deer along the shore.
Chatfield Reservoir does not get as much algae as some other reservoirs when the water warms up in summer.
Ideal spots to launch your paddle board from are Eagle Cove: the first right turn north of the swim beach and before the north boat ramp. The other ideal spot is at Roxborough Cove: just east of the south boat ramp and marina.
Don’t own your own inflatable paddle board? Rent in the park from 5280 Paddle Sports.
Biking, camping, hiking, swimming, and fishing are also popular activities at Chatfield Reservoir. Snow shoeing and ice fishing are popular here too. There is also an off-leash dog park here.
PRO TIP: Be forewarned the wind can come up suddenly. Also, power boats and jet skies can make portions of the reservoir very choppy. Most of the shore line is remote and when high winds blow, getting to safe harbor can be difficult. Have a plan, and go early to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
How to get there: The main entrance to Chatfield State Park is located one mile south of C-470 on Wadsworth. Make a left into the park from the traffic light (there will be a brown sign for Chatfield State Park). Please do not enter at Deer Creek Canyon Road. That is the entrance to the Army Corps of Engineers. 11500 N Roxborough Park Rd, Littleton, CO 80125
Entry Fees: Daily Vehicle Park Pass fees are $10 per vehicle
Paddleboarding in Colorado is fun for the whole family
Cherry Creek Reservoir
Just six minutes from I-25 in south Denver, Cherry Creek Reservoir is a 880 surface acre reservoir and a great Colorado SUP spot in a beautiful state park.
Cherry Creek is a natural prairie filled with rolling hills and complete outdoor recreation facilities, including camping, picnicking and facilities for group events.
Rocky Mountain Paddleboard offers SUPs, kayaks and canoes for to rent from May 14- October 2. Cherry Creek Reservoir is located at 4800 S Dayton St, Greenwood Village, CO.
Cherry Creek State Park is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless you are camping.
Please plan on a park entry fee of $11 per car, annual passes also available. Dogs are welcome at the park as well as on the water with you.
How to get there: 4800 S Dayton St, Greenwood Village, CO
Fees: Plan to pay a park entry fee of $11 per car, annual passes also available. Dogs are welcome at the park as well as on the water with you. Seniors (age 64 and older) and military members can buy discounted passes.
Fish from your XL paddleboard
Bear Creek Lake Park
Bear Creek Lake Park on the west side of Denver offers two great lakes for Colorado SUP fun: Bear Creek Lake and Big Soda Lake.
Bear Creek Lake Park is one of the best places for paddleboarding in Colorado.
Bear Creek Lake Park is a 2,624-acre space where outdoor enthusiasts like to hike, picnic, camp, fish, boat, windsurf, mountain or road bike, hit the swim beach or even head to the archery range.
Big Soda Lake is open to paddle craft as well.
To rent a paddle board here, head to Rocky Mountain Paddleboard inside Bear Creek Lake Park— just follow signs to the Marina. They have paddleboards, kayaks, and XL paddleboards available to make your experience amazing and memorable!
Fees: Please plan on a park entry fee of $10/vehicle. Season passes are available at the gate and online. This is not a state park.
How to get there: 15600 W Morrison Rd, Lakewood CO
Enjoy more freedom with your own paddle board - Check out the Pioneer 2.0 - a fantastic paddleboard for all around fun on the water!
Union Reservoir
Union Reservoir is located at 461 CR 26 in Longmont, Colorado. CR26 is located 1/2 mile North of 119 on East County Line Road.
NOTE: Please ignore directions that take you to the backside of the reservoir or to the sailing club.
Rocky Mountain paddleboard has paddleboards, kayaks, and XL paddleboards available to make your experience amazing and memorable! They are located in the blue building right across the grass picnic area as you cross over the entrance bridge.
Fees: You will pay a park entry fee of $10/vehicle on weekdays, $12/vehicle weekends, plus $8 per person for Full Moon Paddles. Annual passes also available.
Where to Hike around Denver
Best Places to Sleep in Denver
Gather in this midcentury modern home in the heart of Littleton, right between Cherry Creek Reservoir and Chatfield. You can bike 20 minutes to downtown Denver.
Cozy creekside cabin in Morrison sleeps four and is near Red Rocks Amphitheatre too.
Beautiful home in a great neighborhood right by Bear Creek Park.
Top 3 Breweries Around Denver
Our favorites are:
Breckenridge Brewery 2920 Brewery Ln, Littleton, CO 80120
Epic Brewery 3001 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205
Prost Brewing Company 2540 19th St, Denver, CO 80211
Colorado paddleboarding on Jeffferson Lake
Paddleboarding spots in the Rocky Mountains
First off, the one thing you should know about paddle boarding on alpine lakes is that it’s not uncommon for the wind to kick up around noon each day.
We encourage you to head out early, even at sunrise, to experience those smooth as glass moments. Or head out at the end of the day an hour before sunste, after a good long hike on Colorado trails.
And don’t forget your PFDs (Personal Floating Devices).
For example, Dillon Reservoir is extremely deep and very cold, summer included. A sudden gale wind can kick up quick, knocking your balance and calamity may ensue.
Follow these practical tips below, you’ll have a great time!
Paddleboarding in Aspen Colorado
Aspen
North Star Nature Preserve
The sweetest way to enjoy some Rocky Mountain paddle boarding is hopping on the serene part of the Roaring Fork River through the North Star Nature Preserve.
Such a spectacular way to experience nature in Aspen!
Just a 5 minute drive east of Aspen, drop into a sweet pure natural lazy river with your family on a paddle board or kayak, just 5 minutes from downtown Aspen.
Travel with your own inflatable paddleboards and get on the river at sunrise or sunset for the most picturesque, relaxing floats.
Or rent a paddle board or kayak with Elk Mountain Expeditions. They offer half, full and multi day stand-up paddle board rentals, plus shuttles to and from the put-in an take-out sections of the river.
The preserve only asks that you respect others by being quiet, staying on your watercraft (no swimming!) and leaving your dog at home. Look for the rope swing right where you’ll take out.
How to Get There and Logistics:
Straight from the source: Parking is limited. If you choose to drive, you must park in a legal parking spot. If none are available, return at a different time or day, or arrange for a shuttle. There is no guarantee there will be vehicle access to North Star at any given time. Here’s one way to deal with the logistics:
Drop a locked bike at the takeout, drive to Wildwood School to unload and find an available parking spot at Wildwood. At the conclusion of the float, one individual rides the bike back up to Wildwood to retrieve the vehicle. There are two, 15-minute loading spots at the takeout. Have the rest of your party deflate your paddleboards and prepare the gear for a quick load-up and departure. Please lock bikes to the bike racks that have been provided at access points; please do not lock them to the bridge or other objects.
Best Place to Eat Around Aspen
Pine Creek Cookhouse American fine dining, locally sourced and plated in a cozy log cabin with perfect mountain views. This is worth the scenic 30 minute drive following 14 miles of Castle Creek to this fine dining establishment. Don’t want to splurge for dinner? Go here in the middle of the day for a drink and appetizers. 11399 Castle Creek Rd, Aspen
Where to Stay in Aspen
The Hotel Aspen is great for a one night stay. Enjoy their heated pool, hot tub and being able to walk to nearby restaurants.
Looking to relax for a few days? Try one of these well appointed vacation homes in Aspen and enjoy the views.
Paddleboarding on Lake Dillon
BreckenridgE
Paddle boarding Dillon Reservoir or Lake Dillon (referred to either way by Coloradoans) is a true Rocky Mountain treat.
We are huge fans of hiking in Breckenridge. We are even bigger enthusiasts of Dillon Reservoir, a hop, skip and jump from locally loved ski towns – Keystone, Copper and Breckenridge.
As Denver’s main water source, this massive body of water sits in the middle of the Gore Range.
Four campgrounds sit on the water’s edge, making it the perfect weekend summer stop. Heaton Bay has campsites right on the water’s edge, giving you 24/7 access to stand up paddle board. Fish to your heart’s content, on or off your SUP, from Giberson Fishing Point. Find a map here.
PRO TIP: Avoid parking fees at Giberson Bay Fishing Point ($8/day with limited spots) and up to $10/day at the area marinas.
How to get there: Just off Dillon Road, heading toward Giberson Bay Road (this road parallels I70), look to your right (lake side) for a large sandy parking lot. Park there for free all day.
For public bathrooms, hop on the recreation path a few steps down from the lot and head toward Giberson Bay Fishing Point. Only a ¼ mile walk, at most, these are your public potties too!
If you don’t own a SUP, rent from Frisco Bay Marina on the Frisco side or Dillon Marina. Frisco tends to have the most inventory and cheapest prices. Either place requires reservations so get online and book at least 24 hours ahead of time.
Once you have your SUP, here’s a few favorite spots on Lake Dillon to explore.
Osprey Island just off Heaton Bay Inlet: These amazing large birds came back to Summit County in 2010, making several of the reservoir’s tiny islands their home.
Smuggler’s Cove, South of Giberson Bay: Spot eagles, ospreys, beavers and geese in this area. It’s a bit tricky to get to so bring a map and know your bearings before you head out.
No matter where you explore on Lake Dillon, enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop surrounding the water. Bring your hammock, sunshade, food and drinks and make it a day at the beach, literally. NOTE! No swimming is allowed in the reservoir but dogs are welcome on leash.
Paddling at sunrise and sunset is idyllic in Colorado, so bring your own.
Check out the best-selling Pioneer 2.0 - the all around top inflatable paddleboard that travels with you anywhere.
Buena Vista and nearby
If you would like to try some stand up paddle boarding in Colorado near Buena Vista, here are our tried-and-true faves.
Watch for moose! Remain quiet if you see one and if you can cover the moose with your thumb, you are a safe distance from them. This goes for all large wildlife.
Chalk Lake is just up the road from Mount Princeton Hot Springs. Chalk Lake is also a great family fishing spot with rainbow, brook and brown trout. Motorized boats are not allowed on the lake. Hop on your XL paddleboard and head out fishing — t's best above Cascade Falls.
Cottonwood Lake is one of our favorite spots for paddle boarding in Colorado. Day use fee per vehicle.
Popular for fishing, camping, hiking, biking, and paddle boarding, we’ve seen a moose around the lake! Stay 100 yards and remain quiet if you do. Head towards the mountains out of Buena Vista and find Cottonwood Lake along scenic byway Cottonwood Pass.
Jefferson Lake A little over an hour from Buena Vista, but worth the day trip! This is a gorgeous alpine lake for summer paddleboarding in Colorado above 10,000’. Fishing, hiking, camping, and wildlife is awesome here.
Day use fee per vehicle. From Jefferson, CO take County Road 54 north until the road forks, then turn right onto County Road 37 and follow the road until you reach the fee booth. County Road 37 (Jefferson Lake Road), Jefferson, CO 80456
Twin Lakes Reservoir is one of the best places in Colorado for paddleboarding, boating and fishing above 9600"‘. Two boat ramps—one on the eastern side of the lake and one on the western side—make hopping on the lake a breeze. There are miles of shoreline for you and your crew to explore. The lakes’ deep water is stocked every year with brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.
Where to Stay in Buena Vista
If you’re not splurging at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, then one of these mountain vacation cabins are the way to go.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte and Gunnison are but a 30 minute drive from each other, so be sure to read about SUP spots in Colorado listed for both towns when in the area. Gunnison is talked about below, after Crested Butte.
Crested Butte offers lots of scenic paddleboarding in Colorado
Lower Slate River Launch out on your Colorado paddle boards right in town along the Lower Slate. Take Butte Ave. east past 9th St to access the Slate River Recreational Path Bridge for the put in. Take out is the HWY 135 Bridge just past Crested Butte Country Club. Wheelies and Waves rent SUPs and help with transportation.
Emerald Lake All the mountain views for days, Emerald Lake is a great lake for a true Colorado paddleboarding experience. This sparkling gem is nestled in the Elk Mountains along Schofield Pass, 5.6 miles past Gothic. High clearance vehicles help make the drive. Since you’ll be off-grid, it is very ideal to bring your own inflatable paddleboard.
Lake Irwin One of the closest lakes to Crested Butte accessible by car, this lake is both a local and visitor favorite. Bring your inflatable SUP here in summer, plus you can fish, hike, and camp here too.
Note: Lake Irwin Campground is planned to be updated during the 2023 season. The entire campground will be CLOSED to all public access during 2023. Plan accordingly.
Meridian Lake aka Long Lake If you’ve got the muscles, strap your inflatable paddle board and take the short but steep hike up the hill to Long Lake. Or take this easier, longer route. Bonus: You are allowed to swim in this lake! Enjoy Colorado wildflowers in summer and the gold rush of aspens changing color in fall.
Crested Butte is one of the best places to paddle board in Colorado
Where to Stay in Crested Butte
For just one night, the Nordic Inn is a real treat. For cozy mountain retreats, check out these Crested Butte cabins for rent.
Gunnison
Crested Butte and Gunnison are but a 30 minute drive from each other, so be sure to read above about SUP spots in Crested Butte while in the area.
Rocky Mountain Paddle Boarding in the Gunnison area offers diverse lakes:
Taylor Reservoir Surrounded by Elk and Sawatch Mountains at 9300 feet, Taylor Park Reservoir offers a range of outdoor activities. It's located along Cottonwood Pass and about 13 miles northeast of Almont in Gunnison County. Day use fee per vehicle. Good places to drop in your Colorado SUPs are along the base of Matchless Mountain, near the mouth of the Upper Taylor, and near Willow Creek.
Blue Mesa Reservoir is one of Colorado’s passed over gems. The lake encompasses 96 miles of shoreline and you’ll find many day-use areas and campgrounds scattered on the north shoreline along US 50.
Bring your fishing pole too, especially if you bring a big paddleboard. The lake does tend to pick up with wind during the afternoon. Watch the weather and start early in the day for longer trips and give yourself time to get back to shore before the wind picks up.
Where to Stay in Gunnison
Just 9 miles from Blue Mesa Reservoir, this River Front Cabin is on 2.5 acres of riverfront property and across a footbridge that will take you to the Water Park. A great spot for kayaking, trout fishing spot, and an excellent base camp for exploring the Gunnison valley, it’s also just 30 miles from Crested Butte.
Glenwood Springs
Head to Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park when you are looking for more challenging paddleboarding in Colorado. This is the first whitewater park ever built on the Colorado River, and it’s an ideal place to practice advanced SUP skills.
Enjoy the challenge of standing (or kneeling) through the waves and rapids of the Colorado River, the heart (and birthplace) of whitewater paddleboarding in Colorado. Glenwood Adventure Company offers rentals, lessons, and guided tours. 2307 Devereux Rd, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs
We say stay in an Iron Mountain Hot Springs vacation rental, this sweet cottage is just steps from the train station, hot springs, restaurants, shopping, hiking, and biking.
Rocky Mountain National Park Paddleboarding
Rocky Mountain paddling on the west side of the park is covered here widely by sharing first about Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, Lake Granby, and our favorite: Monarch Lake. Finally, we cover Sprague Lake and mention other spots on the east side of RMNP, near Estes Park.
Grand Lake
Colorado’s largest natural body of water, this is a fabulous place to take your SUP or learn how to paddle board for newbies.
Offering plenty of fabulous views and sitting right next to the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, be sure to head out paddling on Grand Lake in the morning before potential winds pick up.
Rent from Grand Lake Marina or from Rocky Mountain SUP.
PRO TIP: A Life Jacket Loaner Station is available in memory of Chris. His story is also written by the rental station. The Best Life Jacket is the one you have on!
How to get there:
Put in directions for Grand Lake Town Beach and Dock. Lake Ave, Grand Lake, CO 80447
Shadow Mountain Lake
Actually connected to Grand Lake through a narrow waterway, the east side of Shadow Mountain Lake butts up to Rocky Mountain National Park.
This hidden gem is great for paddlebaording in Colorado and the best places to put in are at the campgrounds and picnic sites. Hilltop Boat launch and Point Park picnic areas are great spots to launch your SUP.
How to get to Point Park: Right by town, simply head to 1121 3rd St, Grand Lake, CO 80447
Colorado SUP on Lake Granby
Lake Granby
Lake Granby Reservoir is one of the third largest lakes in Colorado with 45 miles of shoreline and lots of options for camping, boating, and fishing.
Best spots to launch your personal SUP will be near the camping and picnic areas like Sunset Point, Rainbow Bay, Roaring Fork and Stillwater.
How to get there: Lake Granby is located on Hwy 34 between the towns of Granby and Grand Lake, Colorado.
Monarch Lake
One of our all time favorite places for serene Colorado paddleboarding, we love Monarch Lake!
While it may take a bit of a scenic drive to get there, Monarch Lake is ideal for swimming, SUP paddling, canoeing, and kayaking since no motorized boating is allowed.
The 4+ mile around the lake is a bonus. Pack a picnic and spend the day here - you’ll be so glad you did. Lovely campsites are nearby.
How to get to Monarch Lake: From Granby turn north onto U.S. Highway 34, travel approximately six miles to County Road (CR) 6. Turn east onto CR 6 (Arapaho Bay Road/NFSR 125), and drive 10 miles to the parking area. You will pass a couple of ideal Colorado campgrounds.
Monarch Lake is worth the drive for serene water and paddleboarding in Colorado
Sprague Lake
On the Estes Park side of Rocky Mountain National park, paddleboarding on Sprague Lake is allowed. But first, please check current conditions with park rangers.
To access this lake, park at Sprague Lake Trailhead, located off of Bear Lake Road.
NOTE: You will need to carry your board about one hundred yards, crossing over a short bridge.
Spy ducks and trout on this 13-acre lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.
How to get there: The closest entry point to Sprague Lake is via the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station near Estes Park. After you enter the park and pay the entrance fee, take Trail Ridge Road for approximately 500 feet before turning left on Bear Lake Road. You'll need a timed entry pass for the Bear Lake Corridor from late May - mid October during high season.
Estes Park has other impressive locations for SUP. Lake Estes offers recreational boating and is just a few miles outside of downtown Estes Park.
Lake Estes Marina offers kayak and paddleboard rentals for visitors. Life jackets are included with rentals. Life jackets are required on the lake.
Lily Lake is also a great place for Rocky Mountain paddle boarding.
San Juan Mountains / Million Dollar Highway
Hike the Blue Lakes Trail neary Ridgway
In Durango, head to Vallecito Reservoir, Animas River or Lake Nighthorse. Enjoy a SUP paddle in Durango surrounded by trees and mountain peaks. Rentals are available, or hop on the lake with your own board. Learn more here.
Ridgway State Park The summer is a great time for paddle boarding Southwest Colorado. Plus, the waterfalls and hikes nearby in Ouray, aka Little Switzerland of America, are tough to beat. The Million Dollar Hwy starts in Ouray, just south of Ridway, and goes to Silverton, making this an unbeatable summer vacay area. One of our all time favorite Colorado campgrounds sits above Ouray. 28555 Highway 550, Ridgway, CO 81432. Rent your boards from RIGS in the summer.
Lake San Cristobal On the opposite side of the San Juan mountains you’ll find Colorado’s second largest natural lake: Lake San Cristobal. This lake’s location in the San Juan Mountains in Lake City shows off in scenic views and it’s one of the best places to paddle board in Colorado.
A public boat ramp, dock and parking area are located part way along the west side of the lake. Bring your own SUP, and you find the public boat launch here. From US-50 W, hop on CO-149 S in Gunnison County to Co Rd 22 in Hinsdale County.
NEW in 2023! Isle Pro Series - the most rigid inflatable paddle boards out there
Paddle boarding in Steamboat Springs is fabulous on Pearl Lake
Steamboat Springs
Pearl Lake State Park Sitting in the wilderness at the base of Hahn's Peak, Pearl Lake State Park offers a sweet campground in Routt County, near the town of Hahn's Peak, 40 minutes north of Steamboat Springs.
Waking up to a quiet, wakeless lake, hop on your paddleboard at sunrise. Aim for a shoreline campsite. If those are all reserved, camp on the ridge above, enjoy the views, and put in at the newer boat ramp.
The Paddleboard Adventure Company runs a kiosk to rent non-motorized watercraft at the old boat ramp on Pearl Lake.
CoHH Tip: Bring your own SUP to Pearl Lake, especially if you are camping. Then you can get on the lake when it’s the calmest, from sunup to sundown.
Stage Coach Reservoir Water lovers head 17 miles south from Steamboat Springs for their stand up paddleboarding oasis in Routt County. Enjoy Stagecoach State Park, where an 820-acre lake showcases towering sandstone cliffs and a big blue sky. This newer Colorado state park is home to a 771-acre reservoir on the Yampa River formed by Stagecoach Dam. 25500 Co Rd 14, Oak Creek, CO 80467
Steamboat Springs Lake The Steamboat Lake Marina rents a fleet Colorado SUPs, supporting and offering pure HALA paddle boards in all sizes for all experience levels. SUPing can be serene and peaceful on early mornings or evenings, or challenging and athletic on a windy day on Steamboat Lake.
Yampa River makes for exciting Colorado whitewater paddleboarding. Mountain Sports Kayak School offers Stand Up Paddle Board Lessons and Tours on the Yampa River, River Creek Park, & Fetcher Pond.
Where to Stay in Steamboat:
We recently stayed in a lovely tiny home cabin at the Steamboat KOA and loved everything about it.
Looking for a place to spread out? Head to these mountain vacation homes near Strawberry Hot Springs.
Paddleboarding in Crested Butte - Lake Irwin
TIPS FOR ROCKY MOUNTAIN PADDLE BOARDING
Take a lesson
Head for smaller lakes and serene waters first if you are a beginner
Paddle with a partner
Wear a leash, attaching your paddleboard to your ankle
Always check the weather before you go
Wear or bring layers - Colorado weather can change in a minute - swimsuit not required
Check conditions / requirements with park rangers before you launch out in a national park
Be aware of which way the wind is blowing and if it will be challenging to get back to shore
Don’t Forget:
Wear or bring your PFD Life jackets, one for each person on your SUP
Paddle(s)
Hand pump or electric pump
Sunscreen
Sunglasses with croakies
Hat
Wear water shoes or sandals, like Chacos or Tevas
Full Water Bottle, clipped to your board
Waterproof camera
Snacks
Take your cell phone, keeping it in a waterproof case or bag
Small first aid kit
A dry bag to hold your items, clipped to the board. We love this Oru Stay Dry Bundle.
NEW in 2023: Isle Inflatable Paddleboard Pro Series - We love this Hybrid Kayak & SUP
Paddleboarding in Colorado State Parks
We’ve covered a lot of fantastic spots and alpine lakes for paddleboarding in Colorado. Which spot would you add?
To find the best paddleboarding spots near you, research is essential. When it comes to paddleboarding, the world is your playground.
Colorado State Parks can be a great place for this sport.
Paddle boarding in Colorado State Parks is allowed in 29 of the 43 areas:
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Boyd Lake
Barr Lake
Chatfield (mentioned above)
Cherry Creek (mentioned above)
Crawford
Elkhead
Eleven Mile
Harvey Gap
Highline Lake
Jackson Lake
James M. Robb
John Martin Reservoir
Lake Pueblo
Lathrop
Navajo
North Sterling
Paonia
Pearl Lake (mentioned above)
Ridgway (mentioned above)
Rifle Gap
Spinney Mountain
Stagecoach (mentioned above)
State Forest
Steamboat Lake (mentioned above)
Sweitzer Lake
Sylvan Lake
Trinidad Lake
Vega