Top 11 Lakes around Summit
Lakes around Summit offer a variety of natural escapes, featuring protected lands, reservoirs, and smaller ponds. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and family-friendly recreation. Many lakes are integrated into larger park systems, offering amenities and extensive trail networks. The area's bodies of water serve as accessible natural retreats, often located near developed areas.
Best lakes around Summit
- The most popular lakes is Watchung Reservation, a forest that features hiking trails, parks, picnic areas,…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Lower Echo Lake
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Watchung Reservation
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Lake Surprise Bathhouse
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Orange Reservoir
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Little Seeley's Pond
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Tips from the Community
while a steep climb, great roads through nature with lots of nooks and cranies to explore.
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generally lovely ride along some lakes, with access to bike friendly trails.
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One of a pair of lakes in Echo Lake Park, Lower Echo Lake is a popular year-round destination. Pedal boating and fishing bring in visitors during the warmer months, while ice skating becomes available as the temperature drops.
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This little pond, in the north of Scotch Plains, is the perfect little getaway from the town. It features a nearby parking lot, public restrooms and a picnic area. Furthermore, you will find a huge trail system surrounding the lake and the nearby area.
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There is a path that completely circles around Orange Reservoir, which is fed entirely by the Rahway River. The flow of the river downstream is controlled by a dam that you can actually walk across on the path at the southern end of the lake.
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One of a pair of lakes in Echo Lake Park, Lower Echo Lake is a popular year-round destination. Pedal boating and fishing bring in visitors during the warmer months, while ice skating becomes available as the temperature drops.
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During the initial decades of the Watchung Reservation's existence, individuals enjoying the park had the opportunity to engage in swimming activities at a designated beach along the lake shore situated behind them. Additionally, there was a facility at this location where visitors could conveniently change into their swimwear – a bathhouse. The lake hosted aquatic carnivals that attracted a substantial number of participants, involving events such as swimming and boating.
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The Watchung Reservation is a vast parcel of protected land in Mountainside, New Jersey. There are hiking trails, parks/picnic areas, playgrounds, a Nature Center, an abandoned village, and a lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes for water activities in Summit County, Colorado?
For extensive water activities, Dillon Reservoir (Lake Dillon) is the premier choice. It offers boating, sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, with rentals available at Frisco Bay Marina and Dillon Marina. It's also popular for fishing.
Are there any challenging hiking trails to alpine lakes in Summit County?
Yes, for a rewarding challenge, consider the Mohawk Lakes system near Breckenridge. The 8.6-mile round trip to Upper Mohawk Lake gains over 2,000 feet of elevation, offering stunning views, waterfalls, and historical mining ruins. Another challenging option is Chihuahua Lake, known for its difficult terrain but mesmerizing turquoise water.
Which lakes in Summit County are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes are great for families. Lily Pad Lake in Eagles Nest Wilderness is easily accessible and known for its unique lily pads. Rainbow Lake, off the Peaks Trail in Frisco, offers mostly flat terrain and scenic picnic spots. Sawmill Reservoir, close to downtown Breckenridge, is also an excellent choice for easy access.
Where can I find easy walking trails around lakes in Summit County?
For easy walks, the trails around Rainbow Lake are mostly flat and family-friendly. The Dillon Dam & bike path around Dillon Reservoir also provides scenic and accessible options for walking and cycling.
Are there any lakes in Summit County known for good fishing?
Yes, fishing is popular in many Summit County lakes. Dillon Reservoir is stocked with brown and rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and Arctic char. The Mohawk Lakes and Lower Crystal Lake are known for various trout species, including cutthroat trout. Lost Lake also offers good fishing for brook and cutthroat trout.
Which lakes offer stunning mountain views in Summit County?
Most lakes in Summit County boast incredible mountain backdrops. Dillon Reservoir provides panoramic views of the Tenmile and Gore Mountain ranges. Rainbow Lake is set against high mountain peaks, and Maggie Pond offers mountain lake vibes with views of the Tenmile Range without a long hike.
Can I find lakes with unique natural features in Summit County?
Absolutely. Lily Pad Lake is notable for its actual lily pads. Chihuahua Lake is famous for its breathtaking, deep turquoise water. The area around Lower Crystal Lake is rich in wildflowers, especially from April to June.
Are there any lakes in Summit County where I might see wildlife?
Yes, wildlife sightings are common around many lakes. Near Lower Crystal Lake, you might spot pikas, moose, deer, and marmots. Piney Lake is particularly known for moose sightings.
What are some less-trafficked or 'hidden gem' lakes in Summit County?
For those seeking a more secluded experience, Chihuahua Lake, while challenging to reach, offers stunning vistas and unique turquoise water away from the crowds. The Missouri Lakes, accessible via a 7-mile round-trip hike, also provide a beautiful, less-visited alpine experience with waterfalls and wildflowers.
Are there any lakes in Summit County that are easily accessible without a long hike?
Yes, Maggie Pond in Breckenridge is just steps from Main Street Station, offering mountain lake views and paddleboarding without a hike. Sawmill Reservoir is also a relatively short distance from downtown Breckenridge, making it easily accessible.
Which lakes are best for a scenic drive and easy access in Summit County?
Dillon Reservoir is easily accessible by car, with towns like Dillon and Frisco right on its shores, offering marinas and lakeside activities. While some lakes require hiking, Piney Lake is accessible by driving, sitting below 10,000 feet within the forest.
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