Top 15 Lakes around Colorado Springs
Best lakes around Colorado Springs are situated at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains, offering a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and plains. The region features a variety of natural and man-made lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. These lakes are integrated into both urban parks and more remote natural settings. The area is known for its scenic beauty and accessible outdoor recreation.
Best lakes around Colorado Springs
- The most popular lakes is The Broadmoor Resort and Cheyenne Lake, a lake set against the backdrop of Pike National Forest. This location is known for its scenic views and integration with a prominent local resort.
- Another must-see spot is Gold Camp Reservoir, a lake located at the base of the Front Range foothills. It offers mountain views along its trails.
- Visitors also love Aspen Lake and Gazebo, a lake in Fox Run Regional Park. This lake features fish and turtles, and a gazebo for relaxation and photography.
- Colorado Springs is known for its diverse range of lakes, including urban lakes, mountain reservoirs, and smaller park ponds. Visitors can find options for fishing, non-motorized boating, and walking trails.
- The lakes around Colorado Springs are appreciated by the komoot community, with 3 upvotes and 6 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Red Rock Canyon Ponds
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Aspen Lake and Gazebo
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Mary Kyer Park
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The Broadmoor Resort and Cheyenne Lake
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Fountain Creek Nature Center
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Tips from the Community
Here you can find peace and relaxation in a beautiful landscape that always reminds me of the ochre cliffs of Roussillon in France.
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With the peaceful ponds in the foreground and snowy peaks in the back, the ponds are a lovely spot to take a break along your ride.
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Aspen Lake is one of two small lakes (the other being Spruce Lake just a few hundred yards to the north) in Fox Run Regional Park. This attractive lake has fish and turtles that live in its waters as well as a gazebo that juts out into its center. This is a great place to relax, take photos, and eat a snack as you watch for turtles poking their heads out of the water.
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One of the best known hotels in Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor is set in a stunning location with Pike National Forest acting as a backdrop for Cheyenne Lake.
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The area boasts various natural sites, including ponds, marshes, meadows, and cottonwood forests. Cattail Marsh Wildlife Area is inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, such as herons, turtles, and deer, so keep a watchful eye for potential animal sightings.
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This park features a serene pond with a soothing waterfall, where you're likely to spot ducks and geese. It also offers amenities such as a basketball court, tennis court, and open green space.
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The area boasts various natural sites, including ponds, marshes, meadows, and cottonwood forests. Cattail Marsh Wildlife Area is inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, such as herons, turtles, and deer, so keep a watchful eye for potential animal sightings.
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Aspen Lake is one of two small lakes (the other being Spruce Lake just a few hundred yards to the north) in Fox Run Regional Park. This attractive lake has fish and turtles that live in its waters, as well as a gazebo that juts out into its center. This is a great place to relax, take photos, and eat a snack as you watch for turtles poking their heads out of the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Colorado Springs are best for families and kids?
Several lakes offer great family-friendly activities. Prospect Lake in Memorial Park is an urban oasis with a swim area, playgrounds, and a paved loop trail. Quail Lake also features a playground, picnic areas, and a stroller-friendly loop trail. For a more natural setting, Aspen Lake and Gazebo in Fox Run Regional Park is known for fish and turtles, while Mary Kyer Park has a serene pond with ducks and geese, plus a playground and sports courts.
Are there dog-friendly lakes or trails near Colorado Springs?
Yes, Quail Lake is noted as dog-friendly, offering a paved 1-mile loop trail ideal for walks with your pet. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
What are the best lakes for fishing around Colorado Springs?
Fishing is popular at many lakes. Prospect Lake and Quail Lake are regularly stocked with various species. Monument Lake is known for trout, bass, catfish, bluegill, pike, and perch. Lake Pueblo State Park is a 'hot spot' for bass, walleye, trout, and catfish. Eleven Mile State Park is renowned for trophy fishing, including large trout and kokanee salmon. North Catamount Reservoir is exclusively for fly-fishing with artificial lures and flies.
Which lakes offer opportunities for non-motorized boating?
Prospect Lake is great for paddleboarding. Quail Lake and Monument Lake are excellent for non-motorized boating like kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Rampart Reservoir also offers calm waters ideal for flat-water kayaks and canoes. Eleven Mile State Park is popular for sailing and windsurfing due to its open waters and consistent winds.
What are the best lakes for swimming near Colorado Springs?
Prospect Lake in Colorado Springs has a designated swim area, making it a convenient option within the city. Further south, Lake Pueblo State Park allows swimming at its Rock Canyon Swim Beach.
Are there accessible lakes for visitors using wheelchairs?
Prospect Lake in Memorial Park is highly accessible, featuring a paved 1.3-mile loop trail and accessible beach access at its Beach House, making it suitable for wheelchair users.
What natural features and wildlife can I expect to see around these lakes?
The lakes offer diverse natural beauty. Quail Lake provides stunning views of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain. Monument Lake, at the base of the Rampart Range, is a haven for birdwatchers. Lake Pueblo offers views of the Greenhorn and Wet mountain ranges and Pikes Peak, with diverse nature exploration. Eleven Mile State Park is also excellent for birdwatching. At Fountain Creek Nature Center, you can spot herons, turtles, and deer in its ponds, marshes, and cottonwood forests.
What are some hidden gem lakes in the Colorado Springs area?
Crystal Lake and North Catamount Reservoir are considered hidden gems in the Pikes Peak region. Crystal Lake is known for its calm waters and stunning reflections of surrounding mountains, while North Catamount offers a peaceful atmosphere and scenic hiking.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Colorado Springs?
Many lakes offer year-round activities. Lake Pueblo State Park, with its mild climate, is suitable for activities throughout the year. Eleven Mile State Park is popular for ice skating in winter, while the warmer months are ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking across most locations. Fall brings beautiful foliage to many areas surrounding the lakes.
Are there hiking or cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, many lakes have trails. Prospect Lake has a 1.3-mile paved loop, Quail Lake a 1-mile paved loop, and Lake Pueblo State Park boasts over 34 miles of biking and hiking trails. Eleven Mile State Park offers almost 5 miles of trails. For more extensive options, you can explore various routes like those found in the Waterfall hikes around Colorado Springs guide or the Cycling around Colorado Springs guide.
What kind of events or unique experiences can I find at the lakes?
Prospect Lake is a prime location for major events, including the annual Labor Day Lift Off hot air balloon festival. The lake also offers stunning sunset views. The Broadmoor Resort and Cheyenne Lake offers a scenic experience integrated with a prominent local resort, set against the backdrop of Pike National Forest.
Are there any lakes with notable viewpoints or scenic backdrops?
Absolutely. Quail Lake offers beautiful views of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain. Monument Lake provides postcard-worthy views of the Rampart Range, especially at sunrise and sunset. Lake Pueblo State Park features views of the Greenhorn and Wet mountain ranges and Pikes Peak. Gold Camp Reservoir, at the base of the Front Range foothills, offers breathtaking mountain vistas along its trails.
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