Lake with rocky shoreline

Lake Purgatory Vacation Rentals

Lake Purgatory

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Lake Purgatory
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Why Rent On Lake Purgatory

Also referred to as Columbine Lake, Lake Purgatory sits quietly north of Electra Lake within the Little Cascade Creek drainage. Once part of the Tacoma hydro system via Xcel Energy, it began as a small reservoir supported by a 13-foot dam constructed in 1906. Though now officially classified as a natural lake following a dam breach, remnants of its engineered past remain visible. With an estimated surface area of 17 acres and shallow depth under 8 feet, the lake is scenic, serene, and tucked deep in the San Juan Mountains. Access is limited, and its close proximity to Purgatory Resort adds a layer of alpine mystique for those exploring the surrounding wilderness. It’s a quietly storied part of Colorado’s hydro-heritage.

Best time to go
For an exquisite escape, plan your visit to Lake Purgatory in late summer—August shines with sun-kissed days perfect for kayaking and fishing. Experience serene tranquility amidst fewer crowds, overlooking vibrant wildflowers and the majestic San Juan mountains.
Water Quality
Lake Purgatory's water is a deep blue, crystal-clear lake nestled in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Its pristine waters offer excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as brook, brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout.
Surface area (mi)
0.04
Max depth (ft)
8.01
Elevation (ft)
8812.34

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Marinas on Lake Purgatory

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Purgatory has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Purgatory. The lake is private and reserved for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing, with no public access or swimming permitted.

  • Lake Purgatory is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. Property owners and their guests can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing in the summer, and snowshoeing, snowcat skiing, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The lake is also surrounded by hiking trails and meadows that bloom with wildflowers in the spring.

  • There are no specific fishing regulations mentioned for Twilight Lake at Purgatory Resort in Colorado. General Colorado fishing regulations, such as requiring a Colorado Parks and Wildlife fishing license, apply. Check the Colorado Fishing Brochure for detailed state regulations.

  • There is no public beach at Lake Purgatory. Lake Purgatory is a private, alpine lake not open to the public, and it is only accessible to property owners and their guests. Activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are restricted to these groups.

  • Towns near Purgatory Resort, which is often associated with the area around Vallecito Lake and the San Juan Mountains, include Durango, Bayfield, and Silverton. These towns are situated in the vicinity of the San Juan National Forest and offer various outdoor recreation opportunities. Vallecito Lake itself is about 23 miles northwest of Durango.