Sloan's Lake is Denver's largest lake and one of the city's most popular outdoor destinations. The 177-acre lake offers a 2.6-mile paved loop with unobstructed mountain views, plus paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. Early mornings bring the calmest water; sunset draws crowds for the mountain glow.
Sloan's Lake
Denver's Largest Urban Lake
Activities
Paddleboarding & Kayaking: Bring your own or rent from nearby shops. Early mornings (before 9am) have the calmest water. No motorized boats allowed.
The Loop Trail: The 2.6-mile paved path circles the entire lake. Flat and wide - perfect for running, biking, or strolling. Gets crowded on weekends.
Fishing: Stocked with trout, bass, and catfish. No license needed for the lake itself. Fish from the shore or the designated pier.
Best Times to Visit
Sunrise: Calmest water for paddling, fewest crowds, and the mountains glow pink.
Weekday afternoons: Plenty of parking, mellow atmosphere.
Sunset: The Front Range turns orange. Very popular - arrive early for parking.
Pro Tip: The north side has the best mountain views. Park in the lot near the playground and walk clockwise for photos with the peaks behind you.