The most idyllic (and best) place to paddle board in Colorado

It’s hard to find an activity that’s more idyllic than paddle boarding on Evergreen Lake in Evergreen, Colorado. Encircled by the Colorado foothills, it is the place to go if you are looking to spend a peaceful and serene afternoon.

Located in the heart of Evergreen, about 45 minutes west from downtown Denver, the lake is home to an upscale log cabin lake house, which sits tranquilly on the edge of the lake.

However, nothing is as charming as the rustic boathouse with its sod roof which looks at its modern counterpart across the lake waters. This is where boaters may rent kayaks, canoes, sailboats, and paddle boats. (The Evergreen Parks and Recreation Department rents the paddle boards in a building adjacent to the boathouse.)

Paddle boards are available to rent from the beginning of May to almost the end of September. The cost to rent a paddle board is $25 an hour, which includes a $10 deposit if the board is brought back within the hour. It is something beginners can catch on to within a couple minutes once they get their bearings. The lake waters are calm as power boats are not allowed on the lake which makes it an ideal location for beginners to try out the sport. After one gets the hang of standing on the board, a natural inclination to start doing yoga kicks in, even for those who never do yoga. Be warned, however, those who get more daring with their yoga moves will end up in the water.

Another popular activity at the lake is to walk the Evergreen Lake Trail, which circles the lake. An easy stroll, walkers can veer off the path and visit downtown Evergreen or the gardens at one end or watch elk, and occasionally moose, play in the water at the nature preserve on the other. After boating or walking, there is a large grassy area with tables on the other side of the lake house to enjoy a picnic.

Adjacent to the lake and Evergreen Lake Trail is a public golf course, where the elk often rest and take no notice of the golfers playing around them.

How many other paddle boarding spots in the world can boarders share the water with a herd of elk? Most likely not many. If you live in Colorado or are vacationing in the state, this is a must do activity in the summer months.

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