Barr Lake State Park - Brighton | Colorado State Parks

A short drive northeast of Denver, Barr Lake offers something for everyone. There’s act from fishing and boating, to hiking and horseback riding. Wildlife is abundant and more than 350 species of birds have been spotted, including Bald Eagle.

Activities

Biking: 8.8 mile shared trail around the lake with hikers and horses. The Dam Crest Trail is permitted. Bikes recommended with thorn proof tires.

Birding: More than 350 species observed.

Boating: 1,950 surface acres when the reservoir is full. Only sailboats, hand propelled craft and boats with electric trolling motors or gas motors with 10 horsepower or less are permitted. Lake closes in winter.

Camping: No, day use only. Other nearby State Parks that offer camping are: Boyd Lake, Chatfield, Cherry Creek, Golden Gate Canyon, Jackson Lake, St. Vrain.

Fishing: All legal fishing methods allowed. Mornings and evenings are best. Ice fishing sometimes in the winter.

Hiking: In addition to the lake trail, there are several short hikes out to various boardwalks. A 1.3 mile walk from the Nature Center leads you to the Gazebo Boardwalk. Dam Crest Trail goes across the top of the dam.

Horseback Riding: Permitted along a shared 8.8 mile trail around the lake. Horses are not allowed on boardwalks or the Dam Crest Trail.

Hunting: Waterfowl hunting permitted during season. Reservations are required.

Picnicking: Numerous sites are located first come first serve around the park. the Meadowlark Pavilion can be reserved for groups.

Winter Recreation: Cross country skiing and snowshoeing when there is adequate snowfall. Great chance to ice fish near Denver, conditions permitting.

Bald eagle marks the entrance.