In Routt County south of Steamboat Springs, Lake Catamount is a private 530-acre reservoir that offers members and guests a large number of outdoor activities. Lake Catamount was constructed in the 1970s when it was thought that Colorado may be hosting the Winter Olympics.
Located in the Blacktail mountain range, Lake Catamount is nestled against scenic Routt National Forest land. The lake was formed with the construction of the Lake Catamount Dam, which blocks the Yampa River to create approximately 7,422 acre-feet of water storage.
Lake Catamount Accessibility
Lake Catamount is only accessible to members and guests of the Catamount Ranch Club. Their website contains membership information for joining.
Activities at Lake Catamount
Boasting a full fitness center, clubhouse, restaurant, and lodging facilities, Catamount Ranch Club members can enjoy many activities around the lake. Members can rent lake activity equipment at the Lake House and Outfitter’s Center.
Boating: All kinds of boating are permitted on Lake Catamount. Members can borrow kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, Laser Sailboats, or a pontoon boat at no additional charge. Water skiing is also permitted with paid instruction available for adults and children.
Fishing: Members and guests may bring their own fishing equipment or borrow gear for free from the clubhouse. As Lake Catamount is on private property, a Colorado state fishing license is not required. Here, anglers have their shot at a few stocked species, with the best chance at catching rainbow trout.
Snow Sports: Only a short distance from Steamboat’s legendary ski slopes, the rolling hills around Lake Catamount are very popular for other seasonal snow sports. Members and non-members can visit the Catamount Outdoor Family Center to rent snowshoes, cross country skis, fat bikes, and more. The trails are well maintained and may even be available for night-use.
Swimming: In the summer, members and guests are permitted to swim in Lake Catamount.
Additional recreation can be found nearby in the surrounding Routt National Forest.
Details
Address: Lake Catamount, 30065 Waters Edge Trail, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone: 970-871-9229
Season: Year-round
Hours: 24/7
County: Routt County
Fees: Membership required, guest fees for non-members
Maps: Rabbit Ears/Buffalo Pass Area Map (PDF)
Website: catamountranchclub.com/Lake
