10 Biggest Lakes in Colorado

Colorado is known for its impressive mountain ranges and year-round sunshine. But this landlocked state has outdoor adventures to offer to water-lovers, too. Colorado has countless lakes and reservoirs throughout the state that are enjoyed year round. Here are ten of the largest.

1. Blue Mesa Reservoir – 9,177 acres

With two full-service marinas and 96 miles of shoreline, Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado’s largest reservoir by volume. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of water sports and activities including boating, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

2. John Martin Reservoir – 11,600 acres

10 Biggest Lakes in Colorado

A swarm of snow geese are seen flying through the sky at the John Martin Reservoir on Thursday February 8, 2018 in Hasty. Photo Credit: Dougal Brownlie (The Gazette)



Located in Southeastern Colorado, John Martin Reservoir enjoys mild weather year-round. With over 400 bird species reported throughout the county, bird watchers will have plenty to see, including the bald eagles that roost here in the winter.

3. Lake Granby – 7,250 acres

Lake Granby is the third largest body of water in Colorado. With 260 campsites on or near the shoreline, and a lake full of trout and salmon, Lake Granby is a favorite for outdoor recreation.

4. Lake Pueblo – 4,600 acres

Lake Pueblo is known for its fishing. But visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities around the lake, including sailing or motor boating, in the year-round nice climate.

5. McPhee Reservoir – 4,450 acres

10 Biggest Lakes in Colorado

McPhee Reservoir in Montezuma County. Photo Credit: Jerrye and Roy Klotz MD (Wikimedia Commons)



In Southwestern Colorado, McPhee Reservoir is a secluded lake with plenty of recreation options. The Can Do Trail takes hikers on a half-mile path up to a scenic overlook with views of the peaks around Mesa Verde.

6. Dillon Reservoir – 3,300 acres

Located in between Dillon and Frisco, this reservoir offers visitors multiple campsites and fishing points to enjoy the beautiful, high-altitude surroundings.

7. Twin Lakes – 2,700 acres

The Twin Lakes sit at the base of Mt. Elbert, the tallest peak in Colorado. The glacier lakes are naturally formed and are enjoyed by hikers, fishers, and sightseers.

8. Green Mountain Reservoir – 2,125 acres

10 Biggest Lakes in Colorado

Heeney Road across the Green Mountain Reservoir. Photo Credit: Epakai (flickr)



Southeast of Kremmling, Colorado, the Green Mountain Reservoir is a popular fishing spot. The lake is stocked with brown trout, rainbow trout, and salmon.

9. Horsetooth Reservoir – 1,900 acres

On the western edge of the college town of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir is 6.5 miles long and a favorite locale for escaping the summer heat. Boating and water-skiing are popular pastimes here.

10. Grand Lake – 500 acres

10 Biggest Lakes in Colorado

A sailboat on Grand Lake. Photo Credit: Lena (flickr)



Located in the town of the same name, Grand Lake is the largest and deepest natural lake in the state. It’s a well-loved destination for water sports and recreation while surrounded on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park.


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