#6 starts at Union Reservoir in Longmont, CO. There is a vehicle AND watercraft fee. Large Swim beach, lots of places to picnic and very busy. Paddle boards and Kayaks are available to rent.
#5 Carter Lake Reservoir in Larimer County. A small vehicle entry fee. Tiny swim beach, with no actual picnic areas. Serene views but unpredictable weather. Watercraft rentals available. Watch out for wakes cause by speeding boats!
#4 Soda Lakes in Bear Creek Lake Park, Lakewood. Vehicle Entry Fee. Swim beach but water can be cold! Large picnic areas, beautiful back drop, Paddle board rentals available.
#3 Lake Estes, Estes Park Colo. Free! And you can launch from anywhere. Wildlife and mountains surround you. No swim beach, unpredictable weather. Rentals are available from Lake Estes Marina.
#2 Standley Lake in Westminster. Vehicle entry fee and requires a watercraft spray down. Only one area to launch from. Quick and easy to get to. Strict NO swimming or wading. Limited picnic areas, but beautiful clear water with really cool surprises! Paddle board and Kayak rentals available.
#1 My Fav! Gross Reservoir in Boulder Colorado. Free! Construction plans for a several seasons may cause restricted areas. Spectacular views! No swimming, no rentals. Park in North lot, free shuttle ride down to lake, restroom near launching point.