Highlight • Lake
Navajo Reservoir
Running
5.0
(1)
Navajo Reservoir, often known as Navajo Lake, is a vast man-made lake primarily situated in northwestern New Mexico, with portions extending into southern Colorado. Formed by the impressive Navajo Dam on the San Juan River, it stands as the second-largest lake in New Mexico. This significant body of water, reaching an elevation of up to 6,085 feet (1,855 meters), is a central feature of Navajo Lake State Park in New Mexico and Navajo State Park in Colorado, offering a striking landscape of high mesa canyons and sparse juniper and piñon forests.
Visitors are consistently drawn to Navajo Reservoir for its exceptional recreational opportunities and stunning natural beauty. The extensive shoreline, stretching over 150 miles, provides ample space for a wide array of water activities, from motorized boating and sailing to kayaking and swimming. Anglers particularly appreciate the diverse fishing conditions, with the San Juan River below the dam renowned for its world-class fly-fishing for trophy rainbow trout, while the lake itself teems with species like northern pike and kokanee salmon.
Before heading out, it's helpful to know that the reservoir is easily accessible, located about 30 miles east of Farmington, New Mexico, and roughly an hour's drive from Durango, Colorado. The surrounding terrain, characterized by rugged high desert and forested mesas, offers a beautiful backdrop for exploration. Ample parking and access points are available within the state parks, making it convenient for day-trippers and campers alike. Check for any specific Navajo Reservoir Lake permit requirements for boating or certain activities before your visit.
The best time to visit Navajo Reservoir depends on your preferred activities, as it's a popular year-round destination. Warmer months are ideal for swimming and all types of boating, while fishing remains excellent throughout much of the year. The surrounding state parks offer numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, allowing visitors to explore the scenic landscape. For those seeking family-friendly activities, the lake provides plenty of options, from picnicking to wildlife viewing.
Many visitors highlight the sheer variety of experiences available, from the thrill of water skiing across the expansive lake to the peaceful solitude found while fly-fishing in the "Quality Waters" of the San Juan River. The picturesque high desert scenery, with its dramatic canyons and unique flora, creates memorable moments, especially during sunrise or sunset. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the outdoors, whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation.
To make the most of your trip, explore the numerous routes available around Navajo Reservoir. Hikers, cyclists, and mountain bikers will find trails catering to various skill levels within Navajo Lake State Park. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll along the water's edge or a more challenging trek through the high desert, komoot can help you discover and plan your perfect adventure, ensuring you experience the best of this remarkable New Mexico and Colorado gem.
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Tips
January 15, 2025
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Navajo Reservoir
10
runners
17.8km
02:14
230m
230m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,770 m
Weather
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Today
Wednesday 13 May
22°C
6°C
15 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 30.0 km/h
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of trails are available around Navajo Reservoir and what is their difficulty?
Navajo Lake State Park, which encompasses parts of the reservoir, offers a variety of trails for hikers, cyclists, and mountain bikers. While specific trail names and detailed difficulty ratings aren't provided, the landscape is characterized by high mesa canyons and rugged high desert, suggesting a range from easier scenic walks to more challenging treks. Many trails offer picturesque views of the lake and surrounding juniper and piñon forests.
Are there any notable landmarks, viewpoints, or natural features at Navajo Reservoir?
The most significant man-made landmark is the Navajo Dam itself, a 400-foot-high structure on the San Juan River. Natural features include the expansive lake with its 150+ miles of shoreline, high mesa canyons, and sparse juniper and piñon forests. The lake's unique geology includes its formation by a lava flow and drainage through sinkholes into both the Great Basin and Colorado River systems.
What are the parking and access points like at Navajo Reservoir?
There are ample parking and access points available within both Navajo Lake State Park in New Mexico and Navajo State Park in Colorado. These facilities are designed to accommodate day-trippers and campers, making it convenient to access various recreational areas around the reservoir.
Are there specific permit requirements for activities like boating or fishing at Navajo Reservoir?
Yes, visitors should check for any specific permit requirements for boating or certain activities before their visit. This includes fishing licenses, which are typically required for both the lake and the renowned San Juan River 'Quality Waters' below the dam.
How does the weather vary by season at Navajo Reservoir, and is it suitable for winter hiking?
Navajo Reservoir is a popular year-round destination. Warmer months are ideal for water activities. While the intro doesn't detail winter conditions, the high desert environment can experience cold temperatures and potentially snow. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions may vary, and it's advisable to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out. The lake's shallow depth (only 25 feet in some areas) means ice formation might occur, impacting winter water activities.
What family-friendly activities are available at Navajo Reservoir?
Navajo Reservoir offers numerous family-friendly activities. These include swimming (allowed on the New Mexico side), picnicking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the various trails suitable for different skill levels. Boating, kayaking, and fishing are also popular activities that families can enjoy together.
Are there dog-friendly trails or areas at Navajo Reservoir?
While the intro and tips don't explicitly state 'dog-friendly' trails, state parks generally have regulations regarding pets. It's best to check the specific rules for Navajo Lake State Park (New Mexico) or Navajo State Park (Colorado) regarding pet access on trails and in other areas to ensure a pleasant visit for you and your dog.
Are there any accessible trails or facilities for visitors with mobility challenges?
The provided information does not specifically detail accessible trails or facilities. Visitors with mobility challenges should contact Navajo Lake State Park directly to inquire about specific accessible options available for trails, viewpoints, or other amenities.
What are the fishing conditions like at Navajo Reservoir, and what species can be caught?
Fishing is a major draw at Navajo Reservoir. The lake supports various species including northern pike, smallmouth bass, catfish, bluegill, brown trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon. The San Juan River below the dam is internationally recognized for its 'Quality Waters' section, offering world-class fly-fishing for trophy rainbow trout. In the lake itself, brook trout, splake trout (hybrid), and rainbow trout are present, though trout survival over winter can be poor for some species.
What are the options for wild swimming at Navajo Reservoir?
Swimming is allowed at Navajo Reservoir, specifically on the New Mexico side. The lake is a popular spot for swimming, offering a refreshing experience in its waters. However, it's always advisable to be aware of water conditions and any posted regulations.
What kind of wildlife can visitors expect to see around Navajo Reservoir?
The high desert landscape surrounding Navajo Reservoir, with its juniper and piñon forests, provides habitat for various wildlife. While specific species aren't detailed, visitors can often spot local birds, small mammals, and potentially larger wildlife typical of the Southwestern United States during their hikes and explorations.
Are there any restaurants or accommodation options near Navajo Reservoir?
The reservoir is a central feature of Navajo Lake State Park in New Mexico and Navajo State Park in Colorado. These parks offer numerous developed and primitive camping sites. While the information doesn't specify restaurants directly at the lake, lodging facilities are available, and nearby towns like Farmington, New Mexico, and Durango, Colorado (about an hour's drive), would offer a wider range of dining and accommodation choices.