1. Shadow Mountain Lake
This high-elevation reservoir is connected to Grand Lake via a narrow strip of water at the town of Grand Lake’s Point Park. Anglers – with a Colorado fishing license – head to Shadow Mountain Lake’s more than 1,300 surface acres to fish for brown trout, rainbow trout and salmon. Boating is a popular summer activity as well: Two public launches on the lake (also called Shadow Mountain Reservoir) allow for power boating and jet skiing, as well as nonmotorized sports like sailing, kayaking and canoeing. Camp at one of the nearly 80 nonelectric sites at Green Ridge Campground on the south edge of the lake, or book a stay at Black Bear Lodge just steps from the lake’s shoreline.
2. Horsetooth Reservoir
Less than 10 miles from downtown Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir was originally created as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project to divert water for drinking and irrigation from the Western Slope to towns along the Front Range. Its name derives from a Native American legend about the unique rock formation towering over the water. Today the 6.5-mile reservoir serves as a popular recreation spot for Colorado State University students and local residents who want to enjoy a respite from the city – especially in the summer months. Lake-based activities include fishing, boating, swimming, paddle boarding and even scuba diving; miles of trails also offer opportunities to hike, mountain bike, horseback ride and rock climb. Camping at the reservoir includes boat-in campsites right on the water, as well as electric and full hookup sites, plus a few cabins. In Fort Collins’ historic Old Town district, The Elizabeth Hotel, Autograph Collection provides luxury accommodations.