Denver, also known as the Mile High City, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports lovers. With its stunning waterways and surrounding natural beauty, Denver offers an abundance of opportunities for canoeing and kayaking adventures.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a novice looking to dip your paddle in for the first time, this article will guide you through 20 of the best places to go canoeing and kayaking in and around Denver. So, grab your gear, put on your sun hat, and let’s embark on a thrilling journey filled with tranquility and excitement!
20. Cherry Creek Reservoir
Located in Aurora, Cherry Creek Reservoir offers an accessible and family-friendly destination for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts. Paddle along calm waters while witnessing stunning sunset views. Nearby attractions include Cherry Creek State Park and the Cherry Creek Shopping Center.
- Location: Aurora, CO
- Pricing: $10/day for a single kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Cherry Creek State Park, Cherry Creek Shopping Center
- Pros: Easy access, calm waters, family-friendly, stunning sunset views.
- Cons: Can get crowded on weekends.
19. Chatfield Reservoir
Nestled in Littleton, Chatfield Reservoir boasts an expansive lake with numerous coves to explore, making it a kayaker’s dream. Wildlife sightings and nearby attractions like Chatfield State Park add to the experience.
- Location: Littleton, CO
- Pricing: $20/day for a tandem kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Chatfield State Park, Deer Creek Golf Club
- Pros: Expansive lake, wildlife sightings, numerous coves to explore.
- Cons: Entrance fee required, limited parking.
18. Barr Lake
For a peaceful escape, head to Barr Lake in Brighton. This serene destination is ideal for canoeing, and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the rich birdlife and well-maintained facilities.
- Location: Brighton, CO
- Pricing: $15/hour for a canoe rental
- Nearby Attractions: Barr Lake State Park, Birdwatching at Barr Lake
- Pros: Rich birdlife, peaceful environment, well-maintained facilities.
- Cons: No swimming allowed, paddlecraft rental availability may vary.
17. Sloan’s Lake
Located in Denver, Sloan’s Lake offers an urban kayaking experience with easy accessibility. Nearby attractions include the charming Highlands neighborhood and Sloan’s Lake Park.
- Location: Denver, CO
- Pricing: Free public access for personal kayaks/canoes
- Nearby Attractions: Sloan’s Lake Park, Highlands neighborhood
- Pros: Urban setting, easy accessibility, great for beginners.
- Cons: Motorized boats can create waves, watch out for lake closure due to algae blooms.
16. Confluence Park
Experience urban kayaking at its finest in Denver’s Confluence Park. Paddle amid the city’s skyline and vibrant Riverfront Park for a unique perspective.
- Location: Denver, CO
- Pricing: Kayak rentals available from local outfitters (prices vary)
- Nearby Attractions: Denver’s Riverfront Park, REI flagship store
- Pros: Urban kayaking experience, proximity to downtown Denver.
- Cons: Can be crowded, limited rental options on-site.
15. Clear Creek Whitewater Park
Adrenaline-seekers will love the Clear Creek Whitewater Park in Golden. This spot offers a thrilling whitewater experience, though beginners should exercise caution.
- Location: Golden, CO
- Pricing: Free public access for personal kayaks/canoes
- Nearby Attractions: Golden History Park, Lookout Mountain Park
- Pros: Whitewater thrill, beginner-friendly sections, scenic surroundings.
- Cons: Rapids can be challenging for novices, with strong currents.
14. Bear Creek Lake Park
For beautiful mountain views and diverse wildlife, head to Bear Creek Lake Park in Lakewood. Enjoy a tranquil ambiance and well-maintained facilities.
- Location: Lakewood, CO
- Pricing: $20/hour for kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Morrison Natural History Museum
- Pros: Beautiful mountain views, diverse wildlife, well-maintained facilities.
- Cons: Limited rental hours, no swimming allowed.
13. Evergreen Lake
Escape to Evergreen Lake for a peaceful paddle amidst a stunning mountain setting. The lake house and Alderfer/Three Sisters Park offer additional recreational opportunities.
- Location: Evergreen, CO
- Pricing: $30/hour for a canoe rental
- Nearby Attractions: Evergreen Lake House, Alderfer/Three Sisters Park
- Pros: Serene mountain setting, paddleboarding available, picnic areas.
- Cons: Seasonal closures, busy during peak times.
12. Union Reservoir
For a relatively quiet kayaking experience, head to Union Reservoir in Longmont. Explore diverse bird species and camping opportunities.
- Location: Longmont, CO
- Pricing: $10/hour for kayak or canoe rental
- Nearby Attractions: Union Reservoir Nature Area, Sandstone Ranch Community Park
- Pros: Relatively quiet, diverse bird species, camping available.
- Cons: Limited rental hours, windy conditions at times.
11. Boyd Lake State Park
Located in Loveland, Boyd Lake State Park offers sandy beaches and excellent fishing opportunities. Enjoy well-maintained facilities and recreational options.
- Location: Loveland, CO
- Pricing: $15/hour for a single kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Boyd Lake Marina, Loveland Museum
- Pros: Sandy beaches, fishing opportunities, well-maintained facilities.
- Cons: Entry fee required, motorized boats on the lake.
10. Horsetooth Reservoir
Experience breathtaking views and abundant fishing opportunities at Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins.
- Location: Fort Collins, CO
- Pricing: $30/hour for a tandem kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, Lory State Park
- Pros: Breathtaking views, cliff jumping spots (with caution), abundant fishing.
- Cons: Busy on weekends, limited parking.
9. Cherry Creek State Park – Reservoir Site
Enjoy a peaceful environment and sandy beaches at this section of Cherry Creek State Park in Aurora.
- Location: Aurora, CO
- Pricing: $10/day for a single kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Cherry Creek State Park, Aurora History Museum
- Pros: Peaceful environment, sandy beaches, excellent for wildlife spotting.
- Cons: Some areas can be shallow, limited rental availability on-site.
8. Boulder Reservoir
Take in the stunning mountain backdrop and enjoy swimming at Boulder Reservoir.
- Location: Boulder, CO
- Pricing: $25/hour for kayak or canoe rental
- Nearby Attractions: Boulder Reservoir Beach, Valmont Bike Park
- Pros: Stunning mountain backdrop, sandy shoreline, swimming allowed.
- Cons: Busy during weekends, water quality may vary.
7. Standley Lake Regional Park
Paddle amidst a scenic backdrop at Standley Lake Regional Park in Westminster.
- Location: Westminster, CO
- Pricing: $20/hour for kayak or canoe rental
- Nearby Attractions: Standley Lake Nature Center, Westminster Promenade
- Pros: Varied wildlife, kayaking amidst a scenic backdrop, suitable for all skill levels.
- Cons: No swimming allowed, fishing limited to specific areas.
6. Boyd Lake State Park – Cottonwood Cove Site
Visit this calm and secluded section of Boyd Lake State Park in Loveland.
- Location: Loveland, CO
- Pricing: $15/hour for a single kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Boyd Lake State Park, Loveland Sculpture Garden
- Pros: Calm waters, peaceful ambiance, perfect for birdwatching.
- Cons: Entry fee required, busy on holidays.
5. Aurora Reservoir
Kayak during the weekdays for a peaceful experience and enjoy sunset paddles.
- Location: Aurora, CO
- Pricing: $15/day for kayak or canoe rental
- Nearby Attractions: Aurora Reservoir Swim Beach, Aurora History Museum
- Pros: Well-maintained facilities, uncrowded during weekdays, excellent for sunset paddles.
- Cons: Fishing restricted to certain areas, limited shade.
4. Jackson Lake State Park
Explore this remote and serene location with ample fishing opportunities.
- Location: Orchard, CO
- Pricing: $20/day for a single kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Jackson Lake State Park Campgrounds, Pawnee Buttes Trailhead
- Pros: Remote and serene, ample fishing opportunities, birdwatcher’s paradise.
- Cons: No swimming allowed, can be windy.
3. Boyd Lake State Park – Heron Cove Site
Enjoy quiet and secluded paddling with beautiful sunset views.
- Location: Loveland, CO
- Pricing: $15/hour for a single kayak rental
- Nearby Attractions: Boyd Lake State Park, Loveland Fire & Ice Festival (seasonal)
- Pros: Quiet and secluded, beautiful sunsets, suitable for paddleboarding.
- Cons: Entry fee required, limited rental hours.
2. Boulder Creek
Experience urban kayaking in the heart of Boulder, with easy access to the city’s attractions.
- Location: Boulder, CO
- Pricing: Free public access for personal kayaks/canoes
- Nearby Attractions: Pearl Street Mall, Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
- Pros: Urban paddling experience, conveniently located, scenic views.
- Cons: Water levels can be low in summer, be cautious of rocks.
1. South Platte River – Downtown Denver
Paddle along the South Platte River for an urban kayaking adventure with views of downtown Denver.
- Location: Denver, CO
- Pricing: Kayak rentals available from local outfitters (prices vary)
- Nearby Attractions: Denver’s Riverfront Park, Denver Art Museum
- Pros: Urban adventure, skyline views, exciting rapids (depending on water flow).
- Cons: Challenging for beginners, variable water levels.
FAQs
Can I bring my own canoe or kayak to these locations?
Yes, many of the mentioned places allow you to bring your own canoe or kayak for a paddling adventure. However, some spots may have specific rules or restrictions, so it’s best to check with the park authorities before heading out.
Are there age restrictions for kayaking or canoeing?
Age restrictions may vary depending on the location and rental provider. Generally, children above a certain age, often around 5 or 6 years old, can join in the paddling fun. Always inquire about age requirements when renting equipment or participating in guided tours.
Can I fish while kayaking or canoeing at these locations?
Fishing opportunities are available at some locations, but it’s essential to check local fishing regulations and obtain any required permits. Some spots may also have designated areas for fishing.
Are there restroom facilities available near these water spots?
Yes, many of the mentioned places have restroom facilities or nearby amenities for visitors’ convenience.
Is there a difference between canoeing and kayaking?
Yes, there are differences between canoeing and kayaking. Canoes are open-top boats typically paddled with a single-bladed paddle, while kayaks have a closed cockpit and are paddled with a double-bladed paddle.
Are there any seasonal closures for these water spots?
Yes, some locations may have seasonal closures or specific operating hours. It’s essential to check the park or reservoir’s schedule before planning your trip.
Can I have a picnic or barbecue at these locations?
Many of these spots provide picnic areas or designated barbecue spots. It’s a great way to enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful scenery after your paddling adventure.
Do I need to make reservations for kayak or canoe rentals in advance?
Reservations may be necessary, especially during peak seasons or weekends when demand is high. It’s recommended to book rentals in advance to secure your paddling equipment.
Conclusion
Denver and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of incredible places for canoeing and kayaking, catering to paddlers of all skill levels. From serene lakes and reservoirs to thrilling whitewater experiences, each destination presents its own unique charm and challenges.
Whether you prefer a tranquil paddle amidst the mountains or an urban kayaking adventure in the heart of the city, Denver has it all. So, grab your paddle, immerse yourself in nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this water sports paradise!
