Discover the best places to paddle board in Denver, CO.
Imagine gliding along calm waters surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
Denver awaits with an array of paddleboarding locations perfect for your next adventure.
Let’s dive in and explore the Rockies’ hidden gems. Ready to ride?

Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Denver
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Cherry Creek Reservoir
- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Cherry Creek State Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, afternoon winds possible
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Birds, ducks, and fish
- ????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Scenic park setting, view of the Rocky Mountains
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Park entry fee, abide by park regulations, life jackets required
Cherry Creek Reservoir, located within Cherry Creek State Park, offers a serene setting for paddle boarding.
The lake’s calm waters provide an enjoyable experience for all skill levels, and with the picturesque park and view of the Rocky Mountains, it’s a popular spot for water recreation in Denver.
#2 Sloan’s Lake
- ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Sloan’s Lake Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Typically calm waters, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, ducks, and geese
- ????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Denver skyline, majestic Rocky Mountains
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to park rules, watch for other watercraft
Sloan’s Lake is an urban oasis surrounded by Sloan’s Lake Park. With its proximity to downtown Denver, paddle boarders can enjoy the unique experience of gliding along the city skyline and mountain views.
The calm waters make for a perfect day out on the water for all experience levels.
#3 Evergreen Lake
- ????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
- Access Point: Evergreen Lake Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, cold water
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Rainbow trout, elk, mule deer
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Surrounded by lush forest, mountain scenery
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to park regulations, be prepared for altitude
Evergreen Lake offers a picturesque mountain lake experience for paddle boarders. Just outside of Denver, the lake is surrounded by dense forest and stunning mountain views, creating a tranquil setting for a leisurely paddle.
The serene waters make it suitable for all experience levels.
#4 Bear Creek Lake Park
- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Big Soda Lake, Bear Creek Lake Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, mild winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Waterfowl, fish, deer
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Natural park setting, mountain backdrop
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Park entry fee, follow park regulations, life jackets required
Bear Creek Lake Park offers paddle boarders a beautiful natural setting at Big Soda Lake. The calm waters and picturesque mountain backdrop provide a serene environment for a day on the water.
Nestled within the park, boarders can experience the varied wildlife and scenic views as they paddle around the lake.
#5 Boulder Reservoir
- ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Boulder Reservoir, North Shore (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, afternoon winds
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds
- ????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Panoramic mountain vistas
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Park entry fee, follow park regulations, be aware of changing weather
Boulder Reservoir is a popular spot for paddle boarding in the Denver area. While slightly outside of Denver, the reservoir’s serene waters and stunning mountain vistas make it worth the trip.
Enjoy the invigorating blend of city escape and panoramic mountain views as you paddle along the reservoir’s shoreline.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Denver?
Cherry Creek Reservoir, Boulder Reservoir, and Chatfield State Park are ideal paddle boarding spots in Denver.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Denver?
No, there is no need to register paddle boards in Denver.
When is the best time to paddle board in Denver?
The best time for paddle boarding in Denver is from late spring to early fall due to pleasant weather conditions.