A LIST OF LAKES / RIVERS IN THE DENVER METRO AREA (updated 10/2/2019)
Here is a list of a few places to paddle on flat water – This list starts with Chatfield Reservoir at the southern end of the Denver Metro area and proceeds in a northern direction to the Boulder and Union Reservoirs. Let us know if you have any corrections or other sites to add. Notes: Colorado State Parks generally require you to wear a USCG approved personal floatation device (PFD/Life vest), carry a whistle and have your name affixed to your board. These safety measures are a “best practice” anywhere you choose to paddle. Be familiar with the Colorado Boating Statues and Regulations. (In Colorado paddleboards less than 16-feet in length are Class A Vessels)
Chatfield Reservoir
Chatfield State Park
11500 N Roxborough Rd. Littleton, CO 80125
303-791-7275
Main Reservoir – 1450 acres, motorized watercraft allowed. Water Quality B, year round access with CO State Parks pass. Daily fee required without pass.
Gravel Pond – 20+ acres, no motorized watercraft, great for SUP. Water Quality A+. Same access as above
The main reservoir features two no wake zones. Paddleboards may launch adjacent to but not within the roped off swim beach area. Bring mosquito repellent. (Entrances on both Wadsworth Blvd and Roxborough Rd). The gravel pond located at the south end of the main reservoir on the west side of the South Platte River and is open to only non-motorized small boats. Bring mosquito repellent. Hourly SUP rentals.
River Run Park (whitewater park)
http://endlesswaves.net/waves/river-run-park/
2101 W Oxford Ave, Sheridan, CO 80110
303-269-8400
River Run Park is located south of Denver, Colorado in the City of Sheridan. The upper wave (Benihanas) is for more advanced surfers, while the lower wave (Chiclets) is better for beginners. The waves are based on the WaveShaper technology that allows wave adjustment for different flows and skill levels. At good flow levels, the wave can turn into a high performance wave that is challenging, steep and fast. Ultimately RRP will host six river surfing waves at the end of 2018.
Bear Creek Lake Reservoir
15600 W Morrison Rd.
Morrison, CO 80465
110 acres, open to motorized boats 10hp or less. Water Quality B. Year round access with annual pass, daily fee required without pass
Big Soda Lake
Access is the same as Bear Creek Lake Reservoir.
15600 W Morrison Rd.
Morrison, CO 80465
Soda Lakes Marina
303-697-1522
Weather conditions
303-697-4766
100 acres, no motorized watercraft. Water Quality B+. Year round access with annual pass, daily fee required without pass.
This is an excellent spot for paddleboarding. Hourly SUP rentals.
Evergreen Lake
Evergreen Lake Park 29614 Upper Bear Creek Road Evergreen, CO
Evergreen Lakehouse
720-880-1300
https://www.evergreenrecreation.com/221/Boating-Paddleboarding
40-acres with B- water quality. Year round access. $4 daily fee or annual pass required.
A beautiful place to paddle. Hourly SUP rentals.