Large, natural lakes are somewhat of a rarity in Colorado. Lake San Cristobal is one of these and it is a special place. Located 2 miles south of Lake City, San Cristobal follows a sweeping arc along the Lake Fork of the Gunnison beneath lofty, alpine peaks.
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| Lake San Cristobal |
Lake San Cristobal makes a great destination because it is very close to the conveniences of Lake City and has plenty of other local diversions. Five peaks over 14,000 feet reside in the surrounding mountain ranges, four of which have trail-accessible summits. Many more peaks are slightly less lofty but far less visited. A relaxing afternoon on San Cristobal makes a great complement to an early morning ascent of a nearby summit. For those with a four-wheel drive vehicle, the Alpine Loop continues up the road above the lake in a spectacular circuit over Cinnamon and Engineer passes before looping back to Lake City. There are many camping opportunities in the Lake Fork and Henson Creek drainages, as well as the developed Wupperman Campground on the lake's eastern shores.
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| Vicinity Map |
Location info: [key]
Scenery: 5
Shoreline Interest: 3
Use: Moderate
Fee: None for day use
Access: Gravel
Water surface elev = 9000;
Scenery: 5
Shoreline Interest: 3
Use: Moderate
Fee: None for day use
Access: Gravel
Water surface elev = 9000;
Features
The most obvious--and probably best--place to launch a watercraft is midway up the west shoreline at Texas Point. The peninsular hill above the water and neighboring island with its timeless connecting suspension bridge are an inviting waterscape to explore via paddleboard. The obvious southern cove--housing the dock and boat ramp--boasts a scenic panorama up-valley. A more hidden northern cove can be a calmer and better protected option if a southwesterly breeze picks up. There is also a compact cove with some waterfront cabins at the north end of the lake near the outlet.
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| ☆ Texas Point, South Cove |
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| ☆ Texas Point, North Cove |
The Wupperman Campground is run by Hinsdale County and features several lakefront campsites. While the east side of the lake is more open than the west, it also features the impressive bluff that towers over the lakeshore. The southern end of the lake contains the Lake Fork delta with multiple braided, shallow channels.
Plan for early to mid-morning for the best chance of calm, glassy water. Check the hourly forecast for predictions of wind speed and wind direction changes. The lake is large enough to catch a significant amount of wind on breezy days, but its meandering shoreline offers a few alcoves to hide in. Generally, any pockets that have a shoreline immediately upwind (rather than open water) should harbor a modest area of calmer waters. Fortunately, there are quite a few bailout spots and a perimeter road it a speedy exit becomes necessary.
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| ☆ Suspension Bridge |
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| ☆ Lake Fork Delta |
The water is cold, so wear a PFD. Also consider a wetsuit if venturing across the middle of the lake where waters can quickly become choppy. Have fun, enjoy the scenery, support local businesses and stay safe!
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