Crisp mountain air, dancing wildflowers, and calm waters welcome visitors to Steamboat Lake State Park, located at the base of historic Hahn’s Peak. A 25-mile drive north on Routt County Road 129/ Elk River Road will lead you to the heart of the Zirkel Wilderness. The state park offers breathtaking views and year-round recreational opportunities for every type of traveler.
Summer
There’s no place quite like Steamboat Lake State Park in the summertime. The reservoir spans over 1,053 acres and provides a place for all forms of water-based activities. Some coves and inlets are restricted to wakeless boating for kayaks and standup paddle boarding, but a vast portion of lake is zoned for wake boating, water skiing, and jet skiing. There is a full service marina as well as a swim beach for the kiddos.
There are 188 campsites located within the park. Electric and non-electric sites are available as well as water hydrants, showers, and vaulted toilets. Reservations are available online and by phone three days – six months in advance. Reservations are highly recommended as this is a very popular spot in the summer months.
Not much of a camper? Make a day trip to go on a scenic hike on one of the several trails in the area. Tombstone Trail is a short 1.1 mile loop that wraps around the shoreline into expansive wildflower meadows and is listed as one the best short trails in Colorado.
The lake also offers cold-water lure, bait, and fly fishing. Anglers can find sizeable rainbow trout, brown trout, and the occasional brook trout. End your day of fishing or hiking with a family picnic at one of the 25 different picnic tables located around the park.
Fall
Steamboat Lake State Park is one of the best places to experience autumn in Colorado. A great way to take in all of nature’s beauty is on horseback. Horseback riding is restricted to undeveloped areas of the park around the southeast corner of the lake. Guided rides are available through Hahn’s Peak Roadhouse. All properly licensed hunters are welcome in the park during all legal seasons after Labor Day weekend. Set up camp in the park, put on your best camo and safety orange and get out there.
All Year
At 8,100’ elevation, three surrounding mountain peaks, expansive forests, and views of the Continental Divide, Steamboat Lake State Park is a photographers dream. Capture lifelong memories of diverse wildlife, foggy mornings, bluebird skies, aspen trees, and breathtaking sunsets behind the lense of your camera. This scenic view could be the perfect backdrop for your next family portrait.
