Colorado may be landlocked, but its shimmering lakes and reservoirs make it a premier spot for stand-up paddleboarding.

The rapidly growing sport, which saw about 4.13 million participants in the United States in 2023, offers a blend of fitness, tranquility, and a chance to connect with nature.

Colorado provides paddleboarding experiences for everyone, from novice paddlers seeking calm waters to adventurous souls craving a challenge.

Whether you’re drawn to panoramic mountain views or a peaceful glide across a glassy lake, Colorado delivers.

Bridget O’Rourke, statewide information officer for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, says it’s critical to wear a life jacket to stay safe on the water.

It’s also the law.

“Paddleboards are counted as vessels. You need to have a life jacket, preferably on, but at least on your vessel,” O’Rourke said. “If you fall in, it’s hard to get the jacket off the vessel and onto you. If the water is cold and you fall in, you can get cold water shock.”

Other safety measures O’Rourke recommends are attaching a whistle to your life jacket in an emergency, checking the weather, and going with a friend.

“Checking the weather first is a big thing. In the summer, storms will roll through and heavy rain and wind can change the water,” she said. “If you go alone, tell someone you’re out on the water and when you plan to be back.”

Many of the best places to paddleboard are in Colorado state parks, so you’ll have to pay for the experience.

If you buy a Keep Colorado Wild Pass for $29 with your next vehicle registration, you’ll have access for a year — a 60% discount compared to a traditional $80 annual State Parks Pass.Some of O’Rourke’s favorite paddleboarding spots are Chatfield State Park, State Forest State Park, Barr Lake State Park and Sylvan Lake State Park.

Many lakes have on-site rentals if you don’t have a paddleboard.

Keep reading to learn about some of the best places to paddleboard in Colorado so you can make the most of your time on the water wherever you are in the state.

Denver area

Cherry Creek Reservoir

The 850-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir in Cherry Creek State Park offers recreational water activities, including paddle boarding.

You can even paddle up to a concert series held at the Pelican Bay Marina, a sandy beach with a roped-off swimming area open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

A bathhouse provides restrooms. In addition to a State Park Pass, you’ll need to pay the Water Basin Authority fee of $1 for a day or $3 for the year.

Big Soda Lake

Just a short drive from Denver, Big Soda Lake in Bear Creek Lake Park is a popular spot for paddleboarding. It doesn’t allow motorized watercraft, so it’s ideal for wobbly beginners who cannot handle a boat’s wake.

Plus, you’ll have fantastic views of the Rocky Mountain Foothills and Red Rocks Amphitheater.

The beach can get crowded, but there’s still plenty of room to launch your paddleboard into the water. Amenities include well-maintained bathrooms and a concession stand after you work up an appetite on your board.

An annual pass costs $80, or you can buy a day pass for $10 or $15 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

Vail Valley

Piney Lake

Located on the scenic 40-acre Piney River Ranch at the base of the Gore Range at 9,350 feet, Piney Lake is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding.

It’s just 12 miles from Vail, but it can take up to 45 minutes by car on a maintained Forest Service Road to reach the picturesque White River National Forest location.

After your paddleboard adventure, you can enjoy a meal at Piney River Ranch. Outdoor dining is available.

Sylvan Lake

You’ll be surrounded by mountains and wildlife as you glide across Sylvan Lake, which is about 40 miles from Vail Ski Resort.

The 42-acre Sylvan Lake in Sylvan Lake State Park in the White River National Forest is home to killdeer, house wren, osprey, and Canada geese.

Nottingham Lake

The calm waters of Nottingham Lake, 11 miles west of Vail in Avon, are ideal for those new to paddle boarding. No motorized boats are permitted.

The Town of Avon has partnered with Stand Up Paddle Colorado to offer recreational activities on the lake from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Summit County

Maggie Pond

If you’re looking for a gentle introduction to paddleboarding, Maggie Pond is perfect for families and beginners.

Its calm waters, fed by the Upper Blue River, are ideal for all skill levels. Plus, it’s in town, just a short walk from Main Street at the base of Peak 9.

You can test your balance by trying an SUP yoga class by Meta Yoga Studios and the Breckenridge Recreation Center. All classes require pre-registration.

Lake Dillon

If you’re looking for a more challenging adventure, Lake Dillon has several beach access points for paddleboarders, including those from the Frisco and Dillon marinas.

Both marinas offer rentals and provide paddleboarding technique demonstrations if you’re a newbie.

If you have a board, you can launch at either marina or from one of the many beaches around the lake.

It’s best to hit Lake Dillon early in the morning or evening for sunset when the water is calmer, and there is less boat traffic and wind.

Grand County

Grand Lake

As the largest natural lake in Colorado, Grand Lake offers plenty of space for paddleboarding while you soak in views of the rugged peaks of nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.

If you don’t have a paddleboard, rent one for a few hours from Rocky Mountain SUP or Grand Lake Marina.

Lake Granby

Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains’ peaks, Lake Granby’s clear waters create an unforgettable experience for paddlers of all skill levels.

The 7,256-acre lake is easily accessible, with various launch points and rental options. While paddling, you may see wildlife, adding to the natural beauty of the experience.

The lake offers more than 40 miles of shoreline for camping and fishing.

Explore the best paddleboarding spots in Colorado, from serene lakes to scenic reservoirs. Discover safety tips, rental options, and top locations.