16 Sep Things to Do at Evergreen Lake, Colorado: Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, Hiking & More
If you are looking for things to do at Evergreen Lake, you can choose from several activities both on and around the water. During the boating season, visitors can kayak, paddleboard, canoe or use a pedal boat. On land, the approximately 1.25-mile lakeside trail is suitable for walking and jogging, while fishing and picnicking offer slower ways to enjoy the area.
Evergreen Lake is located within Dedisse Park at 29612 Upper Bear Creek Road and is managed by the Evergreen Park & Recreation District (EPRD). Its location near downtown Evergreen also makes it easy to combine time at the lake with local restaurants, coffee shops and stores.
Because boating hours, rentals and lake rules can change because of weather, holidays and events, check the latest EPRD information before your visit.
Why Visit Evergreen Lake, Colorado?
Evergreen Lake Colorado is a convenient destination if you want several outdoor activities in one location. You can spend an active day on the water, take a short walk around the shoreline, fish, have a picnic or combine your lake visit with time in downtown Evergreen.
Depending on your plans, you can:
- Get on the water: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing or a pedal boat when rentals are operating.
- Walk or jog: Follow the approximately 1.25-mile Evergreen Lake Trail around the shoreline.
- Go fishing: Fish for rainbow trout with a valid Colorado fishing license.
- Have a picnic: Use the lakeside picnic tables when available.
- Explore downtown: Continue to nearby downtown Evergreen for restaurants, coffee and local shopping.
The combination of water activities, walking and nearby attractions makes Evergreen Lake a practical stop for visitors planning Evergreen Colorado summer activities.
What Are the Best Things to Do at Evergreen Lake?
The best things to do at Evergreen Lake depend on whether you prefer activities on the water or a more relaxed visit around the shoreline.
Kayaking at Evergreen Lake
Kayaking at Evergreen Lake is a popular warm-weather activity. EPRD offers seasonal single and double kayak rentals, subject to current operating schedules and availability. Visitors may also be able to bring approved personal watercraft after meeting the applicable inspection and day-pass requirements.
Kayaking can be a good option if you want to spend time on the lake without using a motorized boat. Motorized boats are not permitted, and boaters must follow the lake’s current safety requirements, including wearing a properly secured life jacket.
Before kayaking, check:
- Current boating hours and operating conditions
- Rental availability
- Weather-related closures or delays
- Personal watercraft inspection requirements
- Current day-pass requirements
- Life-jacket requirements
Rental availability can be limited during busy periods, so check the latest information before making kayaking the main part of your visit.
Paddle Boarding at Evergreen Lake
Paddle boarding at Evergreen Lake is another option during the boating season. EPRD offers seasonal paddleboard rentals, while visitors with personal boards can follow the current requirements for approved watercraft.
For people comparing water activities in Evergreen CO, kayaking and paddleboarding provide two ways to experience the lake from the water. You can also combine either activity with a walk around the shoreline or a picnic.
Weather conditions can affect boating operations, so check the current lake information before arriving. Paddleboarders must also follow the applicable life-jacket and safety requirements.
Hiking and Walking the Evergreen Lake Trail
The Evergreen Lake Trail follows the perimeter of the lake for approximately 1.25 miles. EPRD describes the route as a natural-surface trail primarily used for walking and jogging.
If you are searching for Evergreen Lake hiking, it is helpful to understand that this is a short lakeside recreation trail rather than a strenuous mountain hiking route.
| Trail detail | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Length | About 1.25 miles |
| Surface | Natural |
| Main uses | Walking and jogging |
| Setting | Around Evergreen Lake |
| Activity level | Casual lakeside recreation |
The trail works well as a standalone walk or as part of a longer visit to the lake. According to EPRD information, some sections are not conducive to wheelchair and stroller use and do not meet ADA standards.
Fishing at Evergreen Lake
Fishing is another way to enjoy Evergreen Lake activities without renting a boat. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and fishing is permitted during the applicable hours with a valid Colorado fishing license.
According to the current lake information, fishing is allowed from sunrise to sunset, and artificial bait may be used. Fishing around the Lake House is restricted except at the accessible fishing pier.
If fishing is one of your main reasons for visiting, check the latest regulations before your trip because local rules and conditions can change.
Canoeing and Pedal Boats
Kayaks and paddleboards are not the only ways to spend time on the water. Seasonal boating options can also include canoes and pedal boats.
These options may work particularly well for families or groups who want a slower experience on the lake. Availability depends on the current boating schedule, weather and rental capacity.
Picnicking Around Evergreen Lake
Picnicking is an easy way to turn a short lake visit into a longer outdoor outing. EPRD lists picnic tables near the Lake House, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you plan to have a picnic:
- Arrive early during busy periods.
- Check the current picnic-area rules.
- Bring your own food and drinks.
- Do not plan on using a grill, as grilling is not permitted.
Follow posted park and lake regulations.
Can You Swim at Evergreen Lake?
No. Evergreen Lake is a no-swim lake. Swimming is not permitted, including swimming by pets.
If you are planning a summer visit, choose one of the permitted activities such as walking, fishing, picnicking, kayaking or paddleboarding instead.
What Can You Do Near Evergreen Lake in Summer?
A visit to the lake can easily become part of a larger Evergreen Colorado summer activities itinerary.
Downtown Evergreen is close to the lake and can be reached using the connecting paved trail. After spending time outdoors, visitors can continue into the downtown area for restaurants, coffee, shopping and other local attractions.
A simple half-day plan could look like this:
- Start at Evergreen Lakewith a walk along the shoreline.
- Get on the waterwith a kayak or paddleboard if rentals and conditions permit.
- Take a breakwith fishing or a picnic.
- Head toward downtown Evergreenfor food, coffee or shopping.
This combination allows you to experience the lake without needing to spend an entire day on one activity.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Evergreen Lake?
The best time to visit depends on the activity you have planned and the current operating conditions.
| Your priority | Best approach |
|---|---|
| Kayaking | Visit during the boating season |
| Paddleboarding | Choose a suitable-weather day during the boating season |
| Walking the trail | Spring through fall can be suitable for outdoor walking |
| Fishing | Visit during permitted fishing hours |
| Picnicking | Choose a warm, dry day |
| Fewer crowds | Consider arriving earlier on busy days |
Summer is generally the key season for kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing and pedal boats. However, boating operations and rental hours can change because of weather, holidays and special events.
Rather than relying on an older schedule, check the latest EPRD information before traveling.
What Should You Know Before Visiting Evergreen Lake?
A few practical details can make your visit easier.
Boating Hours Can Change
Boating and rental operations are subject to weather and other conditions. Check the current schedule before traveling if you specifically want to rent a watercraft.
Rental Equipment May Be First Come, First Served
Kayaks, paddleboards and other rental equipment may have limited availability. During busy periods, arriving earlier can give you more time to find available equipment.
Personal Watercraft Have Requirements
Visitors bringing personal watercraft may need to complete an aquatic nuisance species inspection and obtain the appropriate day pass before launching. Check the latest EPRD requirements before bringing your own equipment.
Life Jackets Are Required
Visitors using watercraft must follow the applicable life-jacket requirements. Make sure your life jacket is properly secured before getting on the water.
Swimming Is Not Permitted
Evergreen Lake is a no-swim lake. Do not enter the water for swimming, and do not allow pets to swim.
Fishing Requires a Colorado License
A valid Colorado fishing license is required for fishing at the lake. Check current Colorado fishing regulations before your visit.
Parking Can Fill Quickly
The lake parking area can become busy on weekends and holidays. EPRD may provide shuttle information for applicable high-traffic dates, so check current parking information before visiting.
Picnic Tables Are First Come, First Served
Picnic tables near the Lake House are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Grilling is not permitted.
Plan Your Evergreen Lake Visit
Evergreen Lake offers a variety of ways to spend time outdoors, whether you want to kayak, paddleboard, fish, walk the trail or simply enjoy a picnic beside the water. Its proximity to downtown Evergreen also makes it easy to combine outdoor recreation with local dining and shopping.
Before visiting, check the latest Evergreen Park & Recreation District information for boating hours, rental availability, parking details and current lake rules. This is particularly important if you are planning your trip around a specific water activity.
If you are exploring more of the area, consider adding other things to do in Evergreen Colorado, local restaurants, breweries and places to stay to your itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Evergreen Lake
What are the best things to do at Evergreen Lake?
Popular things to do at Evergreen Lake include kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, pedal boating, walking the lakeside trail, fishing and picnicking. Available activities can vary by season and weather.
Can you kayak at Evergreen Lake?
Yes. Seasonal single and double kayak rentals are available through EPRD when boating operations are open. Approved personal kayaks may also be permitted subject to current inspection and day-pass requirements.
Can you paddle board at Evergreen Lake?
Yes. Seasonal paddleboard rentals are available when boating operations are open. Personal paddleboards may also be permitted if they meet the lake’s current requirements.
How long is the Evergreen Lake Trail?
The Evergreen Lake Trail is approximately 1.25 miles around the lake. It is primarily used for walking and jogging and provides a relatively short lakeside route.
Is Evergreen Lake Trail good for hiking?
The trail is better suited to walking and jogging than strenuous hiking. If you are looking for a casual outdoor activity with lake views, it can be a convenient option.
Can you fish at Evergreen Lake?
Yes. Evergreen Lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and fishing is permitted during the applicable hours with a valid Colorado fishing license.