Best Places For Paddle Boarding in Colorado
Dillon Reservoir
One of my favorite spots to paddle board - mainly because it offers panoramic mountain views! Only 1 hour from Denver, you’ll find open waters you can walk down to from the Marina.
*note they require (and monitor) the usage of life vests. I bought $20 life vests online and they work perfectly.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth in Fort Collins is a great lake to paddle on, and a change of scenery from driving out west. It’s 1 hour north of Denver, and has a small entrance fee.
While boaters are allowed in the vicinity similar to Lake Dillon, It’s stretched thin with places to calmly paddle near the sides and create your own beach for a lunch break.
You can also swim in the water!
Big Soda Lake
If you’re in the city, Big Soda Lake in Bear Creek Lake Park is nearby in Lakewood, and will not disappoint.
My favorite part about this park is the beach where you can get your ocean/beach day vibes and head into the water to cool off. You’ll still get mountain views and some paddling neighbors, but the proximity to Denver makes it a top place to board.
Tips for Paddle boarding in Colorado
Make sure you do your research on entrance/boat fees, best parking areas to avoid lugging your board across long walkways, and bring a life vest. (Even if you aren’t going to wear it, you need to have one accessible at many public locations in Colorado).
One tip I wish I knew sooner was to use an electric pump for my SUP. Not only does the manual labor get harder and harder as the pressure builds, but you’ll be sweating before you even get out on the water. Personally, my research has led me to the Outdoor Master Shark. What won me over was the ability to handle up to 3 boards at once without overheating, and the current deal happening right now for $30 off coupon, on top of a sale.
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