Colorado’s mountain west is dotted with lakes and reservoirs, and the Steamboat Springs area is home to a surprising concentration of great options (in addition to creeks, rivers and hot springs). The area lakes are popular destinations in the summertime and ideal for a Colorado summer (and winter!) vacation. With ample opportunities for fishing, boating, paddleboarding, hiking and more, each lake offers a unique experience that can be customized to the adventure you seek.
Gilpin Lake
Location
This is a hike-to lake in the Zirkel Wilderness accessible from Slavonia trailhead. It is approximately a 9-mile roundtrip hike rated as intermediate to difficult – so be sure to pack and prepare accordingly.
Size
18.4 acres
Known For
This stunning lake is known first and foremost for its stunning views. During certain times of year, there are also incredible wildflowers spanning around the lake. Also, look for unique water crossings!
When to Go
Due to snow, the trail doesn’t become fully accessible until July. Go early in the day and enjoy a nice picnic lunch at the lake.
Gold Creek Lake
Location
This is another hike-to lake in the Zirkel Wilderness accessible from Slavonia trailhead. It is approximately 6.5-miles out-and-back, ranking as intermediate. Be sure to lather on the sunscreen and bring plenty of water!
Size
13.8 acres
Known For
Gold Creek lake has been known for its birdwatching! If you are an outdoor enthusiast who loves to birdwatch and interact with nature safely, this is a great place to do so.
When to Go
The best time to visit the lake is April through September. The hike out and back takes about half a day; allow plenty of time.
Hahn’s Peak Lake
Location
Hahn’s Peak Lake sits about 30 miles north of Steamboat Springs near Hahn’s Peak. It sits about 5 miles past Hahn’s Peak Village.
Size
160 acres
Known For
Due to the remoteness of this lake, Hahn’s Peak Lake is known for its complete darkness at night. The lake is known for its sensational stargazing on clear nights.
When to Go
The lake opens for the season in late June. We recommend booking a campground anytime from July through September.
Mica Lake
Location
Mica lake is a well-known hike-to lake in the Zirkel Wilderness accessible from Slavonia trailhead. This hike is approximately 8.2 round trip and marked as difficult. Remember to be altitude aware and pack for all types of weather.
Size
5.5 acres
Known For
Mica Lake is especially known for its camping. For overnight backpackers, this hike is the ideal place for an overnight stay. It sits at the base of sharp, stunning peaks – making it also known for hiking and climbing the surrounding areas.
When to Go
The best time to visit the trail is June through September. The hike out and back is long, so start early to allow time for sightseeing. The route includes some very tough inclines and some extreme elevation gain.
Pearl Lake
Location
Pearl Lake sits 25 miles north of Steamboat Springs at the base of Farwell Mountain and just a few minutes before Steamboat Lake.
Size
167 acres
Known For
This lake is peaceful and serene due to the no-motor rule. Rent a standup paddleboard or bring your own – this is the most popular lake for doing so!
When to Go
Yurts are available for rental year-round and offer a unique ‘camping’ experience. Campgrounds are open May – October, conditions permitting. Stay a few days to truly relax.
Stagecoach Reservoir
Location
23 miles south of Steamboat Springs
Size
820 acres
Known For
This is a fishing oasis with record-sized pike caught here every year. Stagecoach is also a great spot for any type of motor activities! Bring the boat for water skiing or tubing.
When to Go
A great lake to visit year-round. Book a camping spot and explore the many outdoor activities in the surrounding area. Day-trippers should go earlier in the day or later in afternoon to avoid crowds. If you enjoy ice fishing or fat biking, this is a very popular area for those activities as well.
Steamboat Lake
Location
Steamboat Lake rests about 27 miles north of Steamboat Springs at the base of Hahn’s Peak in Steamboat Lake State Park.
Size
1,101 acres
Known For
This natural lake is another popular boating spot; bring your own or rent at the full-service marina!
When to Go
This lake has something for everyone. Camping is available year-round, although reservations are needed in advance for Memorial Day through the end of September. Head out early and plan to spend a full day taking in the sites and activities. This is another popular spot for ice fishing, as the lake is populated with large trout!
Three Island Lake
Location
This hike-to lake in the Zirkel Wilderness is accessible from Three Island trailhead and is an intermediate 6.2-mile out-and-back hike.
Size
23.2 acres
Known For
Three Island Lake is best known for its solitude. When looking for a remote location to unplug from the world, seek solace in the beauty and isolation of Three Island Lake.
When to Go
The best time to visit the lake is June through September. Start early to allow plenty of time to take in the scenery, including wildflowers and bird watching.
Kindness Floats the Boat
When visiting Steamboat Springs lakes and outdoor recreation areas, remember that Kindness Floats the Boat. Find tips below for how you can take care of others and yourself when experience the great West!
Be Altitude Aware: Know the signs of altitude sickness and pack plenty of water.
Know Before You Go: Research your adventure thoroughly before you depart!
Take Care: Dress in layers, use sunscreen and pick up a free reusable water bottle from the Steamboat Springs Visitors Center.
Keep Wildlife Wild: Keep your distance, pack up food and trash, and please keep pets on-leash. Always give animals the right-of-way!
Be Wildfire Aware: Research local restrictions to keep the forest safe.
Spread Kindness: The lakes can get busy - practice patience, smile and say hello.
Leave No Trace: Leave the area as you found it (or better!).
