Paddle Board Destinations in Colorado: Lakes, Rivers & Alpine Adventures
Colorado may be landlocked, but it’s overflowing with paddle boarding opportunities. From alpine lakes nestled in the Rockies to scenic reservoirs and whitewater parks, the state offers a diverse range of SUP experiences for every skill level. Whether you're into tranquil yoga sessions, SUP fishing, or adrenaline-pumping river surfing, Colorado’s natural beauty and outdoor culture make it a top destination. Late spring through early fall is the best time to explore, with warm days and clear mountain air.
Bear Creek Lake Park
- Location: Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Bear Creek Lake Park boat ramp
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, picnic areas
- Best Season: Summer
A peaceful lake with low wake speeds, Bear Creek Lake Park is perfect for beginners and those seeking a quiet paddle. Located near Denver, it’s a great spot for SUP yoga or a relaxing afternoon on the water.
Blue Mesa Reservoir
- Location: Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Elk Creek Marina
- Amenities: Rentals, dining, parking
- Best Season: Summer
Colorado’s largest reservoir offers 96 miles of shoreline and crystal-clear waters. Paddle to Elk Creek Marina for waterfront dining or explore hidden coves. Ideal for SUP fishing, yoga, and long-distance paddling.
Grand Lake
- Location: Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Grand Lake Marina
- Amenities: Rentals, parking, restrooms
- Best Season: Summer
Colorado’s largest natural lake, Grand Lake is surrounded by mountain views and deep waters. With 507 surface acres and nearly 400 feet of depth, it’s a scenic and spacious destination for paddlers.
McIntosh Lake
- Location: Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Public shoreline access
- Amenities: Parking, nature trails
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
A non-motorized lake ideal for beginners, SUP yoga, and fishing. Calm winds and abundant wildlife—including prairie dogs, pelicans, and eagles—make this a peaceful nature escape.
Quail Lake
- Location: Colorado Springs
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Quail Lake Park
- Amenities: Rentals, restrooms, yoga classes
- Best Season: Summer
A tranquil lake with no motorized boats, Quail Lake is popular for SUP yoga and fishing. Dragonfly Paddle Yoga offers classes and rentals, making it a great spot for wellness-focused paddlers.
Evergreen Lake
- Location: Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Evergreen Lake House
- Amenities: Rentals, restrooms, scenic venue
- Best Season: Summer
Known for its beauty and serenity, Evergreen Lake is a favorite for SUP yoga and weddings. Calm waters and mountain views make it a relaxing destination for paddlers of all levels.
Horsetooth Reservoir
- Location: Fort Collins, Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Reservoir
- Launch Points: Multiple boat ramps
- Amenities: Camping, restrooms, wildlife viewing
- Best Season: Summer
A large reservoir supporting all types of water sports, Horsetooth offers paddle boarding, scuba diving, and nearby rock climbing. Entrance fee required. Great for weekend getaways and outdoor adventures.
Rocky Mountain National Park
- Location: Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Hike-in access to alpine lakes
- Amenities: Trails, scenic overlooks
- Best Season: Summer
For adventurous paddlers with inflatable boards, the high-altitude lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park offer epic scenery and cool waters. Poudre Lake and Poudre River are highlights on the west side.
Sloan’s Lake
- Location: Denver, Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Sloan’s Lake Park
- Amenities: Parking, skyline views
- Best Season: Summer
Paddle with a view of the Denver skyline. Motorboats are allowed, but jet skis are not. Swimming is prohibited. A great urban escape for city dwellers.
Gross Reservoir
- Location: Colorado
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Reservoir
- Launch Points: Gross Reservoir boat access
- Amenities: Parking, rugged scenery
- Best Season: Summer
Named after Denver Water’s Chief Engineer, Gross Reservoir offers alpine beauty and quiet paddling. Only rooftop motorboats are allowed, preserving the serenity. Watch the weather—it can change quickly.
Colorado Whitewater Parks
- Location: Statewide
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Confluence Park (Denver), Glenwood Springs, others