Lake with glowing sunset

Trinidad Lake Vacation Rentals

Trinidad Lake

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Trinidad Lake
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Why Rent On Trinidad Lake

Situated within Trinidad Lake State Park, this 800-acre reservoir is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. Located just 4 miles west of Trinidad, the lake is popular for boating, sailing, and fishing for bass, trout, and catfish. Set against the Spanish Peaks, the lake features shaded campgrounds, a marina, and hiking trails—some of which follow remnants of the Santa Fe Trail. A section of the park displays ruins from nearby Cokedale, a coal mining town from the early 1900s. Visitors can also explore an exposed layer of the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary, marking one of Earth’s most dramatic extinction events. History and high desert scenery combine at this southern Colorado gem.

Best time to go
Visit Trinidad Lake in late summer, from mid-July to early August, when golden sunlight dances upon still waters and the air is fragrant with wildflowers. Experience the serenity of fishing, kayaking, and hiking in blissful solitude, free from summer crowds.
Water Quality
Trinidad Lake in Colorado exhibits water colors ranging from aquamarine to emerald, with clarity varying from crystal-clear to slightly off-color due to recent snowmelt and rain.
Surface area (mi)
3.6
Max depth (ft)
72.18
Elevation (ft)
6099.08
Shoreline length (mi)
11

Popular activities

  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • No, you cannot swim in Trinidad Lake. Swimming is prohibited by Colorado State Parks regulations.

  • Trinidad Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts because it offers a wide range of activities. The park features an 800-surface-acre lake for boating, fishing, jet skiing, and water skiing, as well as hiking trails, an archery range, and camping sites. It also includes picnic areas, a playground, and opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

  • Fishing is prohibited within 100 feet of either side of the outlet and downstream to the first falls at Trinidad Lake in Colorado. This restriction is in place to protect the area around the outlet. A Colorado fishing license is still required for other areas of the lake.

  • There are no public beaches for swimming at Trinidad Lake. The lake is primarily used for fishing, boating, and other water sports, but it does not have designated swimming areas. The focus is on activities like fishing and boating rather than swimming.

  • Towns near Trinidad Lake include Engleville, Jansen, Piedmont, and Starkville. These towns are all located in the vicinity of Trinidad, Colorado. They are part of the local area surrounding Trinidad Lake.