Compared to the other major lakes in the Denver metro area (Chatfield, Barr, Big Soda), Cherry Creek is not one that we have spent much time at. The reasons are that some of the elements that help make an enjoyable paddleboarding experience are simply less abundant at Cherry Creek.
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| Smooth waters at south end of Cherry Creek Reservoir |
For example, both Chatfield and Cherry Creek get very busy with motorized boats and waterskiers/wakeboarders on summer weekends. But where Chatfield has large no-wake zones and accessory ponds, Cherry Creek does not. The squarish shape of Cherry Creek Reservoir also lacks protective coves or inlets to shield the waves and chop that propagate from the open waters of the lake. There are still some areas can offer easy launching of paddleboards, and there are plenty of times to find calm conditions, but other lakes in the region can typically one-up Cherry Creek.
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| Vicinity Map |
Location Info: [key]
Shoreline Interest: 1
Use: High
Fee: $9/vehicle
Access: Paved
(scroll down to "water levels")
An exception to this is when the water is high--especially if the main boat ramps are closed. The southeastern shores of Cherry Creek back up against a wide natural area with mature trees and intermittent meadows. When the water rises, the normally dry shores transform into a patchwork of interconnected bays and lagoons. Beware, however, that there are plenty of lurking surprises to spice up the paddling. Shallow areas, floating branches, half-submerged bushes, and sluggish fields of reeds are all present. Easy passage from one body to the next ins't always easy or obvious, so bring patience, good judgement, and maybe your sense of type 2 fun.
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| Cherry Creek Reservoir southeast shore |
The are no direct access points to the southeast shore of Cherry Creek, but the south and east corners have some put-ins that are pretty close. On the east side, Pelican Point provides quick access to the Cherry Creek inlet. The same launch point can reached from the far south end of the expansive trailer lot for the East Boat Ramp. The closest access to the south corner of the lake is from the Prairie Point trailhead. From the small gravel loop, the water is a 300 foot carry on singletrack. Cottonwood Creek, the lake's secondary inlet, enters the lake at the location and is worth exploring. The 2 southern lots of Lake Loop, another nearby access point, offers less carry distance but a slightly longer paddle to reach the southeastern shore. Consider the thunderstorm forecast and the possibility of chop from motorboats for your return trip if launching from Lake Loop.
Cherry Creek's close proximity to Denver makes a it quick escape to the water, particularly from the southeast suburbs. You could even squeeze in a post-work paddle from the Tech Center. Be judicious about the weather forecast and motorized traffic, as the open waters can get very rough. For the best chance of good conditions, try to visit early morning or on a weekday. Have fun and play safe!
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