Lake Estes
- evrpd.com
- Estes Park
About
Lake Estes is the town's front yard, a big reservoir just east of downtown with a paved loop around it. Easy walk, easy fishing, easy kayak rental. Come here when you want the lake without the drive.
Lake Estes sits just east of downtown. It's a 185-acre reservoir, part of the Colorado-Big Thompson project, and the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District runs the paved trail around it, about 4 miles and easy. Dogs on a leash are welcome. Restrooms and drinking fountains are at Cherokee Draw, and there's paid parking at Cherokee Draw, Wapiti Meadows and the marina, plus lots near Fisherman's Nook. Rainbow trout are the main catch, and there's a fishing pier built for wheelchair access near Fisherman's Nook.
The marina rents kayaks, paddle boards and other boats roughly May to mid-September, depending on the weather. Power boating is limited, so don't expect a speedboat scene. The facilities close in winter because of ice and snow, though the trail stays a good walk. I'd go early for glassy water and parking, or evenings when the light gets pretty. Bring a hat, because the loop is open and the wind can pick up. Pick up after your dog, and leave the geese alone.
