Top 20 Lakes around Frisco
Best lakes around Frisco, Colorado, are conveniently located near this mountain town, offering diverse outdoor activities. The region is characterized by its mountainous terrain and proximity to large reservoirs, providing opportunities for water sports and scenic views. These lakes serve as key recreational areas for visitors seeking natural landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Best lakes around Frisco
- The most popular lakes highlight is Dillon Dam & bike path, a cycle way that offers scenic and peaceful cycling around the Dillon Reservoir. It provides mountain views and opportunities to observe boats launching from the nearby marina.
- Another must-see spot is Frisco Wetlands Bike Path, a cycle way through wetlands at the western lakeside of Dillon Reservoir. This flat, paved path provides mountain scenery and is wheelchair accessible.
- Visitors also love Dillon Dam and Reservoir, a lake and viewpoint. It is a popular locale for boating, fishing, and summer concerts, and serves as Denver’s largest water supply.
- Frisco is known for large reservoirs and smaller alpine lakes. These offer a variety of experiences, from extensive water sports to tranquil natural retreats.
- The lakes around Frisco are appreciated by the komoot community, with 14 upvotes and 6 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: July 8, 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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Lily Pad Lake
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Ophir Mountain Trail System
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Tips from the Community
Of course, at 3102 m, Ophir Mountain isn't a "big" climb, but the trails to the summit are quite challenging...there's a network of hiking trails here that leads through "forest" and across forest regeneration meadows...we found a charming trail today!!! The mountain offers wonderful views from the summit...of the Dillon Reservoir, the surrounding mountains, several 14,000-meter peaks, and the Ten Mile Range. The loop is relatively short, but has a significant elevation change with very steep sections (both up and down). Today, significant areas are used by the Forest Service, initially to reduce the risk of wildfires, but later also to "regenerate the natural forest" (sometimes it looks like an uncontrolled forest landslide...the timber just stays there; cross-country? no chance!). Today, the rain finally caught up with us, but it could have been worse, considering the neighboring mountains...it's worth it!
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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 trail along the dam and shore of the reservoir.
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Situated in a forest yet still providing open views of the lake and surrounding mountains, the Ophir Mountain Trail System is an intertwining set of trails in the Frisco area. The trails are not as popular as some of the other trails in the area (such as Peak Trail, Rainbow Lake, etc.) and provide a sense of nature just at the edge of town.
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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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Situated in a forest yet still providing open views of the lake and surrounding mountains, the Ophir Mountain Trail System is an intertwining set of trails in the Frisco area. The trails are not as popular as some of the other trails in the area (such as Peak Trail, Rainbow Lake, etc.) and provide a sense of nature just at the edge of town.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and viewpoints around Frisco?
The most popular spots include Dillon Dam and Reservoir, which is a hub for boating, fishing, and summer concerts. Another favorite is the Dillon Dam & bike path, offering scenic cycling with stunning mountain views around the reservoir.
Are there accessible paths or trails around Frisco's lakes?
Yes, the Frisco Wetlands Bike Path is a flat, paved, and wheelchair-accessible path through wetlands at the western lakeside of Dillon Reservoir, providing beautiful mountain scenery.
Which lakes near Frisco are best for hiking?
For hiking, you can explore the area around Lily Pad Lake, a small alpine lake in the Eagles Nest Wilderness. The Ophir Mountain Trail System also offers trails with open views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Can I go boating or fishing on the lakes near Frisco?
Yes, Dillon Reservoir is a popular locale for both boating and fishing. It's Denver’s largest water supply and offers ample opportunities for water activities.
Are there any less-known lakes to visit near Frisco?
For a quieter experience, consider Lily Pad Lake. Tucked away in the Eagles Nest Wilderness, it sees much less traffic than other lake trails in the area, offering a peaceful alpine setting.
What cycling routes are available around Frisco's lakes?
You can enjoy several cycling routes, including the scenic Dillon Dam & bike path and the Frisco Wetlands Bike Path. For more options, check out the Cycling around Frisco guide, which features routes like the Tenmile Recpath and the Lakeshore Perimeter Trail.
Can I swim in the lakes around Frisco?
While many lakes are for recreation, Lily Pad Lake is noted as a place where you can swim when the weather is warm enough, so dress appropriately if you plan to take a dip.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near Frisco's lakes?
The wetlands and natural areas around lakes like Dillon Reservoir, particularly along the Frisco Wetlands Bike Path, provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for various bird species and other local fauna.
Are there family-friendly activities around Frisco's lakes?
Many areas are family-friendly. The Dillon Dam & bike path and Dillon Dam and Reservoir are both categorized as family-friendly, offering activities like cycling, boating, and enjoying the scenic views.
What are the best times to visit the lakes near Frisco?
The lakes are popular year-round. Summer is ideal for water sports, boating, and concerts at Dillon Reservoir. Spring and fall offer beautiful scenery for cycling and hiking, while winter provides opportunities for snow-based activities on or around the frozen lakes.
Where can I find more hiking trails near Frisco's lakes?
Beyond specific lake trails, you can find a variety of hiking options in the area. The Hiking around Frisco guide lists routes like the Lakeshore Perimeter and Crown Point Road Loop, and the Temple Trail, offering diverse difficulty levels.
Are there any historical aspects to the lakes around Frisco?
Yes, the Dillon Dam and Reservoir has a notable history. The dam was built in the early 1960s, requiring the relocation of the original town of Dillon, which now lies beneath the water. It serves as Denver’s largest water supply.
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