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Vallecito Lake Vacation Rentals

Vallecito Lake, Colorado, United States
37.3833° N, -107.5664° W
Vallecito Lake
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Vallecito Lake is a lake located just 22.4 miles from Telluride, in San Juan County, in the state of Colorado, United States, near Beartown (historical), CO.

Surface area (mi)
6.9
Max depth (ft)
110.01
Elevation (ft)
8300.53
Shoreline length (mi)
12
Best time to go
As summer unfurls from late June to early August, Vallecito Lake transforms into an idyllic retreat. Embrace warm sun-drenched days perfect for paddleboarding and fishing, while lovely evenings invite stargazing beneath an unmarred sky, free of tourists' bustle. Don't miss the enchanting Vallecito Music Festival in July, where melodies echo through the tranquil pines, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere.
Water Quality
Vallecito Lake's water is crystal-clear with a cerulean hue, offering ultra-clear visibility up to 14 feet. The pristine waters reflect the surrounding environment in a mirror-like fashion, enhancing the lake's sparkling appearance.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing
  • Ice Skating
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Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Vallecito Lake 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 Vallecito Lake. This is due to safety reasons, but other water activities like kayaking, boating, and fishing are permitted.

  • Vallecito Lake is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities. The lake offers a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and trout, and is surrounded by the San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness Area. It also provides activities like boating, horseback riding, and winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

  • Yes, you need a recreational fee permit to fish at Vallecito Lake in Colorado. This permit can be purchased from most lake-based businesses or directly from the Pine River Irrigation District. A valid Colorado fishing license is also required.

  • There are no public beaches at Vallecito Lake. Swimming is not allowed on the reservoir itself, but other water activities like kayaking and canoeing are permitted. Public access is available through boat ramps and picnic areas.

  • Towns near Vallecito Lake include Durango, Bayfield, and Ignacio. These towns are located in southwestern Colorado, with Durango being about 18-23 miles southwest of the lake. Other nearby towns are Cortez, Pagosa Springs, and Silverton, while Aztec and Farmington in New Mexico are also within a reasonable distance.