6 Best Places to Paddle Board In Colorado


Colorado is a beautiful state with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. If you’re looking for something new to try, why not give paddle boarding a go? Here are some of the best places in Colorado to paddle board.

best places to paddle board in Colorado
best places to paddle board in Colorado

Top Places to Paddle Board In Colorado

  1. Big Soda Lake

This large, shallow lake is located in the Bear Creek Lake Park in Denver. It’s the perfect place to paddle board as it offers calm waters and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

2. Vallecito Lake

If you want to paddle board in a more remote location, head to Vallecito Lake in the San Juan Mountains. This lake is surrounded by forests and mountains, making for a peaceful and serene setting.

3. Grand Lake

This large lake is located in the Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s a popular spot for all sorts of activities, including paddle boarding. You can rent a board from one of the many outfitters in the area and explore the lake at your own pace.

Grand Lake, is in fact, the largest natural lake in Colorado. The close by town, Grand Lake town, has some of the best ice cream shops in Colorado. Make sure to stop by one after a long day of paddle boarding.

4. Cherry Creek Reservoir

With up to 880 acres of water to explore, Cherry Creek Reservoir is a great place to paddle board. The reservoir is located just outside of Denver and offers stunning views of the city skyline.

5. Union Reservoir

This is another stunning reservoir located just outside of Denver. Union Reservoir is a great place to paddle board, as it’s large and offers plenty of space to explore.

6. Lake San Cristobal

If you like paddle boarding in Lakes, this is another great option for you. Lake San Cristobal is located in Lake City and is the second largest natural lake in Colorado. It’s a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and of course, paddle boarding.

These are just a few of the great places to paddle board in Colorado. So get out there and explore.

Do You Need A Permit To Paddle Board In Colorado?

No, you do not need a permit to paddle board in Colorado. Also, a paddle board, just like kayaks and canoes, is a hand-powered vessel and therefore does not require a boating permit. You can paddle board on any lake or river in Colorado as long as you follow the state’s boating regulations.

However, some lakes and reservoirs may require you to have some kind of pass in order to use them. You might want to ask the people in charge or local authorities about that before you go paddle boarding in a specific body of water. Other than that, have fun and enjoy the ride.

Can You Paddle Board on Any Lake in Colorado?

Yes, You can paddle board on most lakes in Colorado, but there are a few exceptions. Some lakes may be off-limits due to being part of a protected area or because the waters are not safe due to, say, there being dangerous marine life such as alligators.

In addition, some lakes may require you to have a permit in order to paddle board on them. It’s always best to check with the local authorities before heading out onto the water.

Can You Paddle Board on Any Lake in Colorado
Can You Paddle Board on Any Lake in Colorado

Do You Need A Fishing License To Paddle Board In Colorado?

Today, any person using wildlife areas, which include lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, must have a valid fishing and hunting license. The good news is that you can easily get a fishing license online from the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. A day pass costs $11 while an annual pass costs $33.

You will need to provide your personal information as well as a credit or debit card number to complete the purchase. After that, you will be able to print out your fishing license and bring it with you when you go paddle boarding. Having a fishing license is not only the law, but it also helps to support Colorado’s wildlife and outdoor recreation.

Paddle Board Rentals In Colorado

There are so many great places to paddle board in Colorado that you might be wondering where to start. Luckily, there are many outfitters that offer paddle board rentals. This is a great option if you don’t have your own board or if you’re visiting from out of state.

Here are a few of the best places to rent a paddle board in Colorado:

  • Blue River Paddle boards in Breckenridge
  • SUP Colorado in Denver
  • Glenwood Springs Paddle board Adventures
  • Rocky Mountain Paddle board
  • 5280 Paddle Sports
  • Float-Shock Paddle Board Rentals
Paddle Board Rentals In Colorado
Paddle Board Rentals In Colorado

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Paddle Board In Colorado?

The cost of renting a paddle board in Colorado depends on the outfitter and the length of time you want to rent the board.

However, most places charge around $25 for an hour or $40 for two hours. You can also often find discounts and deals if you rent for a longer period of time or if you rent multiple boards.

Can I Take My Dog Paddle Boarding In Colorado?

Yes, you can take your dog paddle boarding in Colorado as long as you follow the state’s regulations. You will need to make sure that your dog is wearing a life jacket and that they are comfortable with being on the board. It’s also a good idea to bring some treats to help them stay calm.

What Are The Best Places To Paddle Board In Colorado?

There are many great places to paddle board in Colorado, but here are a few of the best:

  • Boulder Reservoir
  • Cherry Creek State Park
  • Chatfield State Park
  • Bear Creek Lake Park
  • Arapaho Bend Natural Area
  • Horsetooth Reservoir

Final Thoughts

Paddle boarding is a great way to explore Colorado’s many lakes and rivers. With so many great places to paddle board in the state, you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot for you.

Whether you’re renting or bringing your own board, don’t forget to get a fishing license and follow all of the state’s boating regulations. Have fun and enjoy the ride. Now get out there and explore Colorado’s waterways on a paddle board. If you love paddle boarding and new experiences you should check out Hawaii. Here is out top places to paddle board in Kauai and experience an incredible getaway.

Joseph Gambino

Paddle Board Enthusiast, Athlete and Blogger. Learn more about me here: https://paddleboardkings.com/about-joseph-gambino/

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