19 Best Lakes in Colorado (By a Local)

Updated September 28, 2025
Laura Falin
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A serene view of Grand Lake, and the mountains

I’m a Denver local who loves exploring the great outdoors, and in this guide, I go over the best lakes in Colorado. These include popular and lesser-known destinations, plus one of my family’s favorite mountain getaways. 
These scenic areas offer countless activities on large reservoirs and small alpine lakes. Discover what to do in the water and on land, as well as the best places to stay nearby. 

19 Best Lakes In Colorado
Grand Lake
Colorado’s largest natural lake has boating, swimming, fishing, and breathtaking views.

📍 Google Maps | Grand Lake Website | 🅿️ Parking: Free, can be crowded summer weekends & holidays
Grand Lake, one of the best places to visit in Colorado, lies on the western entrance to Rocky Mountain Nation...

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Laura is a freelance writer in Colorado. She has written for publications and websites including BabyCenter, Colorado Parent Magazine, and Denver Parent. She loves hiking, paddle boarding, camping, and snowboarding, and she has run exactly one marathon. She now lives in Littleton, Colorado with her husband and four children. They love exploring the state and the rest of the U.S., usually by car, and they are pros at 20-hour road trips.