Whether shoreline daydreaming, fishing or paddle boarding, everyone can hit Denver-area lakes and reservoirs

By Liam Easley

The chemistry between an urban setting and nature is something the metro area takes pride in, and that pride can be practiced even in the midst of COVID-19. Long known for its parks and trails, the metro area also boasts numerous small bodies of water to escape to.

While a few activities are restricted, there are still many opportunities to enjoy the water. A great way to get outside – and a way that is less strenuous than a hike through the mountains – is to visit one of the many lakes and reservoirs.

1. Sloan Lake

One of Denver’s closest and most popular bodies of water is Sloan Lake (call it Sloan’s if you must), a drive less than 15 minutes west of downtown Denver. The lake is used for fishing, and the surrounding trails provide for biking, walking and jogging. There are no restrictions in place, but it is easy enough to social distance while enjoying a sunset view of the city’s skyline or the Front Range peaks. Next year, look for the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival to return to the park. For more details, check this website.

2. Kountze Lake

Lakewood’s Kountze Lake is a mere 15-minute drive from downtown, and it is one of the lesser-known escapes on the list. Tucked away in Belmar Park, the lake, like Sloan Lake, is primarily used for biking and hiking. Watch for the occasional deer or fox. There have been no official restrictions listed, but visit the website for more information.

3. Kendrick Reservoir

Also located in Lakewood, Kendrick Reservoir is just east of Kipling Parkway on West Jewel Avenue. Outside of the neighborhood, most folks wouldn’t know that fishing and hiking are tucked into this suburban pocket. Picnic areas are also available for rent. Along with the usual activities, Kendrick Lake Park also contains one of the largest xeriscape gardens in the metro area. For more, visit their website.

4. Cherry Creek Reservoir

The Cherry Creek Reservoir anchors Cherry Creek State Park southeast of Denver. The park offers many recreational activities around the 880-acre reservoir. The trails and shorelines are open, but swimming is not currently allowed. Cherry Creek also allows fishing, jet skis, paddle boats and kayaks. Because the park is crowded in warm summer months, entrance is restricted until visitors leave and parking spaces open up. More information is available on the website.

5. Barr Lake

Brighton is home to Barr Lake State Park, a recreational haven that offers biking, hiking and horseback riding. The park also contains the Nature Center that is now open on select days of the week. Learn about the park’s wildlife and fish habitat from a naturalist. The park also offers individual grills that can be occupied by no more than 10 people. Unfortunately, all swimming is currently prohibited. For more information and Nature Center business times, visit the website.

6. Bear Creek Lake

For more fitness-oriented activities, Bear Creek Lake is a great place to visit. The Lakewood city park includes an archery range as well as tennis and basketball courts, all of which are open to those who pay the entrance fee. Other available activities include walking the trails, of which they have many. The lake is stocked often with trout and other fish and some people have great luck. More information is available on their website.

7. Boulder Reservoir

Just 40 minutes up the road from Denver is Boulder Reservoir. The popular north Boulder body of water comes equipped with great views of the Foothills. The main attraction is boating and currently, like many area lakes, swimming is prohibited. Social distancing guidelines are heavily enforced at the city-owned water storage facility. While boating is an option, there are many protocols to consider, and they are all listed on the website.

8. Aurora Reservoir

A few lakes and reservoirs are not open to fishing at the time, but that is not the case in Aurora. Anglers often brag of large bass and trout that are pulled from the reservoir. About 40 minutes southeast of downtown Denver, the reservoir is also open to boating and includes an extensive trail system. Paddle crafts are allowed on the lake, and more information on where they can be launched can be found on the website.

9. Chatfield Reservoir

Not only is Chatfield Reservoir a place to camp, hike, fish and exercise, but it is also a place to bring your dog. The southwest metro area reservoir has an open dog park that Fido will love. The campgrounds are popular (be sure to check for reservations), but all groups must contain 10 or fewer people. To walk your dog, you can take the trail around the reservoir. Bring a paddle board and enjoy the water, just don’t paddle too close to shore. More information is available on the website.

Photo: courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife