Barr Lake

Barr Lake floats under the radar of many Denver area paddlers as compared to more popular places like Soda Lake and Chatfield.  Its appeal is calm water, moderate visitation and heavily wooded coves that create a sanctuary for wildlife.  

Barr Lake

Located just outside the 470 beltway, Barr Lake is one of the closest stand-up paddle places to the Denver area.  It is especially convenient for residents of the northern or eastern parts of the metro area and those with state parks passes.  Its location in the opposite direction from the mountains and its lack of visibility from major roads help to moderate the number of visitors on busy summer days.  

Vicinity Map

    Location Info: [key]

    Scenery: 3
    Shoreline Interest: 3
    Wakeless
    Use: Moderate
    Fee: $9/vehicle
    Access: Paved
    Full elev = 5105; 

    best near full, 

    late season drawdown possible
    Rec. info 

    Rec. map
    Weather 

Barr Lake is a great option for the days when time constraints or season don't lend themselves to a full-day mountain adventure.  It is a great destination in May while the water level is high and when many other nearby waters are still emerging from their springtime chill.  Barr is also a great place for children because of the short distance to the lake's best features and restriction of motor boats to wakeless speeds.  

Barr Lake

The coves south of the boat ramp (starred on map) are premier places to paddle around or just float.  The woods that ring the outer fringes of the lake are home to LOTS of wildlife.  Pelicans are often visible floating in these waters or gliding along the lake's surface.  The trees that guard the mouths of the coves also shield from wind and waves.  Paddlers who meander their way through the inundated tree trunks are greeted with still waters, great reflections, and quiet sounds of nature.  

☆ First Cove

☆ Second Cove

For further information on the wildlife species that live here and the conservation efforts to protect them, refer to the state parks website or Friends of Barr Lake.  While it might be tempting to continue paddling southward along the east shoreline, a buoy line bisecting the lake restricts travel from the designated wildlife refuge area [map].  However, there is plenty more forested shoreline to explore on the north side of the boat ramp.  

Shoreline at low water

Shoreline at high water

As visible in the two satellite views, the difference between high water and lower water is dramatic in the wooded coves south of the boat launch.  Whether the water stays high into summer or recedes early can vary from year to year.  Try to visit early, enjoy the nature and be safe!

Please feel free to add observations of current conditions to the comments!