
Boulder Reservoir
Peaceful manmade lake with a mountain backdrop, popular for kayaking, swimming & waterside hikes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Boulder Reservoir
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Peaceful manmade lake with a mountain backdrop, popular for kayaking, swimming & waterside hikes.
"Great family day lots of memories! Love the Boulder Reservoir."

💸 Permit Costs for Water Sports
Budget for a $70 seasonal permit for paddling, plus $5 entry. No day-use option. :moneybag:
☀️ High-Altitude Sunburn Risk
Protect yourself! The sun is intense here. Use high SPF sunscreen and cover up. :sunwithface:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kayaking & Paddle Boarding
Boulder Reservoir
Glide across the calm waters with stunning mountain views. A perfect way to explore the reservoir.

Picnic & Grilling Spots
Designated picnic areas
Enjoy a meal with a view! Grilling is a popular option for families and groups.

Waterside Hikes & Bike Paths
Around the reservoir perimeter
Scenic trails offer beautiful vistas of the water and surrounding mountains.

Swimming Area
Designated swimming zone
Cool off in the reservoir's waters, which are noted as relatively clean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits & Fees: Know Before You Go
Sun Protection is Key at Altitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boulder reservoir
💸 Permit Costs for Water Sports
Budget for a $70 seasonal permit for paddling, plus $5 entry. No day-use option. :moneybag:
☀️ High-Altitude Sunburn Risk
Protect yourself! The sun is intense here. Use high SPF sunscreen and cover up. :sunwithface:
Open water swimming in Boulder, CO?
Hi boulder! I’ll be visiting with my husband in July and am wondering if there are any less strenuous hikes you could recommend while we acclimate from sea level. We’re both in decent shape but from the coast of VA so expecting some adjustment. We’re only there 5 days. Thank you!!
🍔 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Grilling is popular! Bring your own food for a great waterside dining experience. :hamburger:
🚶♀️ Bike Path Access
You'll need to pay the park fee again if you leave the bike path and re-enter. :bike:
First time at Boulder reservoir
Tips
from all over the internet
💸 Permit Costs for Water Sports
Budget for a $70 seasonal permit for paddling, plus $5 entry. No day-use option. :moneybag:
☀️ High-Altitude Sunburn Risk
Protect yourself! The sun is intense here. Use high SPF sunscreen and cover up. :sunwithface:
🍔 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Grilling is popular! Bring your own food for a great waterside dining experience. :hamburger:
🚶♀️ Bike Path Access
You'll need to pay the park fee again if you leave the bike path and re-enter. :bike:
🚿 Shower Facilities Available
Nice facilities to rinse off after swimming or water activities. :shower:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Boulder Reservoir is praised for its beautiful mountain backdrop and suitability for family outings, with popular activities including swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. However, visitors should be aware of the significant cost of seasonal permits for water sports, even for day use, and the potential for high-altitude sunburn.
"Cost for a single day of paddling at Boulder Reservoir with your own board: $75
$5 entry
$70 permit - it doesn’t matter that you go for just the day; you have to buy a season permit.
Fine for violating this is $1,000 and/or 3 months in prison."
Brianna Townsend
"Great family day lots of memories 🥰🥰
Love the Boulder Reservoir. Definitely bring food for picnic here (grilling is the best way to do it)!"
Khanh-ly Nguyen
"I reserved the beach view for a day after my wedding to spend with family and friends. It was perfect! The volleyball court, restrooms, and set up was everything we needed.
We rented kayaks and paddle boards and had a permit to swim.
Great experience! 10/10"
Diana Vasquez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boulder Reservoir is located northeast of Boulder, Colorado. It's accessible by car via Jay Road. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the reservoir.
Yes, there is parking available at Boulder Reservoir. Fees may apply for entry, and parking availability can vary, especially on busy summer weekends.
Yes, there are bike paths that lead to and around Boulder Reservoir. However, be aware that if you leave the bike path and re-enter the park, you may need to pay the entrance fee again.
From Boulder, head north on 55th Street, which turns into Jay Road. Continue on Jay Road until you reach the entrance to Boulder Reservoir.
Boulder Reservoir is a well-known local spot and is generally easy to find by following signs from the main roads leading out of Boulder.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $5 per person entry fee for Boulder Reservoir. This fee applies to individuals entering the park.
While there's an entry fee, swimming itself doesn't require a separate permit, but you must swim in the designated swimming area.
Paddling activities like paddleboarding require a seasonal permit that costs $70, in addition to the $5 entry fee. This permit is required even for day use.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the standard entry fee is $5 per person. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any potential offers.
The swimming area at Boulder Reservoir typically closes at 6 PM. It's advisable to confirm current hours before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, hiking, biking, and picnicking at Boulder Reservoir. There are also volleyball courts available.
Yes, Boulder Reservoir is a great spot for families, offering swimming, picnic areas, and space for recreation. Many visitors have created wonderful family memories here.
Yes, Boulder Reservoir has restroom facilities and also offers shower facilities, which are convenient after water activities.
Regulations regarding pets can vary. It's best to check the official Boulder Reservoir park rules for current pet policies before your visit.
Visitors have noted that the water quality at Boulder Reservoir is generally clean compared to other reservoirs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, grilling is a popular activity at Boulder Reservoir, and there are designated areas for it. It's a great way to enjoy a meal with a view.
There are no restaurants directly at Boulder Reservoir. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for picnics and grilling.
It's recommended to bring picnic items, grilling supplies if you plan to use the grills, and plenty of water and snacks to stay energized.
While there are no immediate concessions at the reservoir, you can find grocery stores and restaurants in the nearby city of Boulder.
There are various picnic areas around Boulder Reservoir, some with volleyball courts and scenic views, making them ideal for a family gathering.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots offer views of the water with the mountain backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset. The bike paths also provide scenic opportunities.
Yes, Boulder Reservoir is very photogenic, particularly for landscape photography, with its combination of water, mountains, and open skies.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors.
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks and reservoirs. It's crucial to check the specific regulations for Boulder Reservoir before flying a drone.
Landscape, nature, and recreational photography are popular, capturing the serene environment and people enjoying activities like kayaking and swimming.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚴♀️ Active Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Water Activities at Boulder Reservoir
For those interested in sailing, Boulder Reservoir provides an open space to catch the wind. While less common than kayaking or swimming, it's a recognized activity here. It's important to note that all water activities, including swimming and sailing, are subject to park entry fees. Always check the latest regulations and permit requirements before heading out to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the water.
Planning Your Visit: Fees and Permits
It's crucial to be aware of these costs to avoid surprises and potential fines, which can be substantial. Visitors have reported that violating permit rules can lead to fines of $1,000 and even jail time. Therefore, planning ahead and purchasing the necessary permits is highly recommended. Always verify the most current fee information on the official Boulder Reservoir website or by contacting park management directly.
Outdoor Recreation and Amenities
The reservoir also features amenities like restrooms and shower facilities, which are convenient for visitors after a day of swimming or other outdoor pursuits. The presence of these facilities enhances the overall visitor experience, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you're seeking active recreation or a peaceful picnic, Boulder Reservoir provides a well-equipped and scenic environment.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit