Summertime in Durango means there’s no shortage of sunshine and activities. When the heat seems too unbearable for a hike up Animas Mountain, the locals congregate to the best lakes near Durango for a refreshing swim or lakeside picnic. Located within a thirty-mile radius of Durango, there are several lakes to choose any outdoor activity from fishing, paddle boarding, sailing, or just an afternoon soak. If you want to have a day filled with unforgettable memories, be sure to dive into one of these lakes just a quick drive from central Durango. 

1) Vallecito Reservoir 

Nestled in the San Juan National Forest, Vallecito Reservoir is just a quick forty-minute scenic drive from central Durango. The picturesque views of the mountains surrounding Vallecito Reservoir are worth every minute spent on this lake. Take your fishing rod and rent a canoe or paddleboard for a great time spent on this lake. Don’t forget to take a picture of your catch of the day before releasing it back into the water. Vallecito also has some great beach spots where you can sit and enjoy the sound of the water and breathe the fresh Rocky Mountain air. When lunch or dinner time rolls around, be sure to enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants around the reservoir, where you will always be greeted with a smile and delicious food right off the grill. If you want to spend a night under the stars, there are a few campgrounds along the perimeter of the reservoir for a restful night’s sleep. 

2) Lake Nighthorse 

When the weather in Durango is warm, Lake Nighthorse is open! As one of the locals’ favorite family getaways, Lake Nighthorse is a short 10 minutes southwest of Durango. For a small entrance fee, this lake is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. At the lake, you can find picnic benches to host a party or have lunch with the family. Getting out on the water is also a breeze. Whether you rent a paddleboard or bring a boat, there are options for everyone. Plus, you can’t miss the Wibit Aqua Park, the latest addition to the swim beach at Lake Nighthorse. There are also several opportunities to learn something new on this lake. Anything from sailing, wakeboarding, and kayaking, Lake Nighthorse is a great place to learn. Be sure to take a lesson from any of the local guide companies for a fun-filled day. So, grab your life vest and get out on the water or hang out on the beach with the kids. Either way, Lake Nighthorse is one lake you won’t want to miss. 

3) Molas Lake 

Take a drive in the San Juan mountains up the Million Dollar Highway, where you will find one of Colorado’s most beautiful lakes right off the road. Molas Lake offers many opportunities for hikers of all levels to take a walk in the woods. The Molas Lake Trail Loop is one of the most popular hikes for jaw-dropping views of the snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. The lake is closed to motorboats, so taking a canoe or paddleboard onto the open water is just as fun. This lake offers fishing opportunities in the summer as well as ice fishing in the winter. And the views always impress. If you want to stay at the lake for more than a day, find a spot at the lakeside campground and enjoy the night sky views of the Milky Way.

4) Haviland Lake 

Located just south of Purgatory Resort, Haviland Lake is one you don’t want to miss. With an extensive trail system, this lake provides hiking for all ages. In the winter, these trails are great for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. The trails allow horseback riding year-round and are most spectacular in the fall. Haviland Lake is also an excellent spot for fishing, so be sure to bring your nets and cast for rainbow and brown trout! If you want to go fishing but don’t know how? Be sure to book a guided trip with one of our local fly shops, and you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable day. Only another five-minute drive north of the lake, you’ll find places to relax and enjoy the mountain views with a cold beverage.

If you don’t know where to begin your next adventure in Durango, go to one of these lakes for a memorable vacation. Ask one of Durango’s Downtown Ambassadors for resources, and they will direct you to the best local services. Leave no trace in the wilderness and support local business!