Top 20 Lakes around Keystone
Best lakes around Keystone, Colorado, are situated in a mountainous environment, offering diverse aquatic and recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by high-altitude reservoirs and alpine lakes, many of which are fed by snowmelt. These bodies of water serve as focal points for outdoor activities, surrounded by forests and mountain peaks. The region's lakes are integral to its natural landscape, providing both water resources and recreational spaces.
Best lakes around Keystone
- The most popular lakes is Dillon Dam & bike…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Dillon Dam and Reservoir
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Dillon Dam & bike path
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Frisco Wetlands Bike Path
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Dillon Reservoir Bike Path
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Lily Pad Lake
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Tips from the Community
This is a scenic spot to look out over the reservoir. The dam itself was built in the early 1960s and required relocating the original town of Dillon, which is now sitting beneath the water. Today, the reservoir holds Denver’s largest water supply and sends it through a tunnel under the Continental Divide. Surrounded by mountain towns, Dillon Reservoir is a popular locale for boating, fishing, and summer concerts at the lakeside amphitheater.
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The bike path to and around the Dillion Reservoir is very scenic and peaceful. There are amazing mountain views almost everywhere around the water, and you can watch boats launching from the nearby marina.
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Excellent dedicated bike path along the shore of the large reservoir. Well paved, with markers and rest areas.
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Excellent dedicated bike trail along the dam and shore of the reservoir.
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A small alpine lake in a meadow, Lily Pad Lake is tucked away in the Eagles Nest Wilderness and sees much less traffic than the lake trails in downtown Silverthorne and Frisco. This lake can be accessed via several different wilderness trails. When it's warm enough outside, you can actually swim in the lake, so dress appropriately!
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A small alpine lake in a meadow, Lily Pad Lake is tucked away in the Eagles Nest Wilderness and sees much less traffic than the lake trails in downtown Silverthorne and Frisco. This lake can be accessed via several different wilderness trails. When it's warm enough outside, you can actually swim in the lake so dress appropriately!
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Flat and paved path through the wetlands at the western lakeside of Dillon Reservoir. As it's pretty close to Frisco, it might get a little busy during the weekends – besides of that you will be spoilt by the stunning mountain scenery all around you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes for recreation around Keystone, Colorado?
The Dillon Dam and Reservoir is a prominent spot, popular for boating, fishing, and summer concerts. Keystone Lake itself offers paddle boating, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing. For a more secluded experience, Lily Pad Lake is a small alpine lake known for less traffic.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near Keystone?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. The Dillon Dam & bike path provides scenic and peaceful routes suitable for all ages. The Frisco Wetlands Bike Path is flat, paved, and wheelchair accessible, making it ideal for families. Keystone Lake also offers paddle boating and a paved pathway for walking and biking.
Can I swim in the lakes around Keystone?
Swimming is permitted in Lily Pad Lake when the weather is warm enough. However, swimming is generally not permitted in Keystone Lake itself, and Dillon Reservoir is primarily for boating and fishing.
What kind of water activities can I do at Keystone Lake?
At Keystone Lake, visitors can enjoy paddle boating, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing during the warmer months. In winter, it transforms into one of the largest maintained outdoor ice-skating rinks in the country.
Are there winter activities at the lakes near Keystone?
Yes, Keystone Lake is a popular spot for winter activities, transforming into one of the largest maintained outdoor ice-skating rinks in the country, perfect for skating and pond hockey.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Keystone?
Beyond water activities, the area offers extensive opportunities for hiking, running, and cycling. You can find various routes, from easy to difficult, such as the Snake River Recpath or the challenging Geneva Peak via Continental Divide Trail. For more details on routes, explore the hiking guide, running guide, and road cycling guide for Keystone.
Are there accessible walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, the Frisco Wetlands Bike Path, located at the western side of Dillon Reservoir, is a flat, paved, and wheelchair-accessible path offering stunning mountain scenery.
What is the difficulty level of hiking trails near Keystone's lakes?
Hiking trails near Keystone's lakes vary in difficulty. You can find easy paths like the Snake River Recpath, moderate trails such as the Ophir Mountain Trail System, and more difficult routes like the Soda Ridge and Soda Creek Loop. Always check specific trail details for elevation and length.
How long does it take to hike or bike around Dillon Reservoir?
The bike path around Dillon Reservoir, including sections like the Dillon Dam & bike path, offers routes of varying lengths. A full loop can be quite extensive, with some road cycling routes around the reservoir reaching up to 70 km. Shorter sections are available for more leisurely rides or walks.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife near Keystone's lakes?
For a nature-focused experience, Lily Pad Lake in the Eagles Nest Wilderness is known for its secluded setting. The Ophir Mountain Trail System offers trails through forests and meadows with open views, providing opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Keystone?
The summer months (June to September) are ideal for most outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and cycling, with wildflowers blooming and pleasant temperatures. Fall offers beautiful foliage. For winter sports like ice skating, December to March is the best time, depending on ice conditions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Keystone?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning mountain views, the peaceful atmosphere, and the diverse range of activities available. The scenic bike paths, like the one around Dillon Reservoir, are particularly popular for their beauty and accessibility. Many appreciate the opportunity to connect with nature, whether through a challenging hike or a relaxing paddle.
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