Welcome to Colorado, a state known for its majestic mountains and pristine waters.
Looking for the best places to paddle board in Colorado?
Grab your board and let’s explore the stunning scenery of the Centennial State. Dive in and prepare for adventure!
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Colorado
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 Horsetooth Reservoir
- ????️ ️Location Type: Reservoir
- Access Point: South Bay Swim Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm waters, afternoon winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds, occasional deer
- ????️️️️ Landmarks & Views: Stunning views of the surrounding foothills
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious during windy conditions, water can be cold
Horsetooth Reservoir, nestled in the foothills of Fort Collins, is a popular paddle boarding destination in Colorado.
With spectacular views and calm waters, it offers a serene paddling experience amidst the scenic nature.
#2 Boulder Reservoir
- ????️ Location Type: Reservoir
- Access Point: Boulder Reservoir Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional windy conditions
- Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Birds, fish
- ????️️️️ Landmarks & Views: Views of the Front Range Mountains
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow reservoir rules, be cautious during windy conditions
Located just north of Boulder, Boulder Reservoir offers a family-friendly paddle boarding destination with calm waters and stunning mountain views.
It’s a great spot for beginners or anyone looking for a peaceful paddleboarding experience.
#3 Chatfield Reservoir
- ????️ ️Location Type: Reservoir
- Access Point: Chatfield State Park Marina (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm waters, afternoon winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Birds, fish
- ????️️️️ Landmarks & Views: Views of the Platte River Valley and surrounding mountains
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow park rules, be cautious during windy conditions
Chatfield Reservoir, located within Chatfield State Park, offers diverse recreational opportunities, including serene paddleboarding experience surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Enjoy the views of the Platte River Valley and the surrounding mountains as you glide through the calm waters.
#4 Cherry Creek Reservoir
- ????️ Location Type: Reservoir
- Access Point: Cherry Creek State Park Swim Beach (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, possible afternoon winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Birds, fish
- ????️️️️ Landmarks & Views: Views of the park’s natural beauty
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Abide by park rules, watch out for boat traffic
Found within Cherry Creek State Park, Cherry Creek Reservoir offers paddleboarders a tranquil escape in the heart of the Denver metropolitan area.
With diverse ecosystems and scenic park landscapes surrounding the reservoir, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing paddleboarding session.
#5 Dillon Reservoir
- ????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
- Access Point: Dillon Marina (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm waters, can be windy
- Popular Seasons: Late spring to early fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds
- ????️️️️ Landmarks & Views: Spectacular views of the surrounding mountains
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow marina rules, be prepared for colder water
Dillon Reservoir, situated in the picturesque town of Dillon, offers paddle boarders a high-altitude adventure surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Glide across the reservoir’s serene waters and take in the breathtaking mountain views.
#6 Colorado River
- ????️ ️Location Type: River
- Access Point: Dotsero Landing Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, may experience winds
- Popular Seasons: Late spring to early fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds
- ????️️️️ Landmarks & Views: Beautiful scenery along the riverbanks
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of water levels, watch for boat traffic
The Colorado River, famous for its scenic beauty, offers a unique paddleboarding experience. Flowing through canyons, forests, and valleys, this iconic river presents an unforgettable adventure with every bend.
Enjoy the spectacular landscapes as you paddle along the gentle currents.
I apologize if the previous information seemed incorrect. Based on my research, here are additional paddleboarding spots in and close to Colorado.
#7 Barr Lake
- ????️ Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Barr Lake State Park Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm waters, possible afternoon winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and early fall
- Wildlife Encounters: Birds, fish
- ????️️️️ Landmarks & Views: Wildlife refuge scenery
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow park rules, electric motors only for boats
Barr Lake is located within Barr Lake State Park and is known for its calm waters, making it suitable for paddleboarding.
With the park’s status as a wildlife refuge, you can paddle amongst the beauty of nature and diverse bird populations.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Colorado?
Popular places to paddle board in Colorado include Boulder Reservoir, Sloan’s Lake, Chatfield Reservoir, and Cherry Creek State Park.
Do paddle boards need to get registered in Colorado?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Colorado.
When is the best time to paddle board in Colorado?
The ideal period for paddle boarding in Colorado is mid-summer when the water temperatures are warmer.
