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Barr Lake State Park
13401 Picadilly Rd, Brighton, CO 80603, United States
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Ca
Review №1

Great place to go hike, you can see when others are getting close. I feel this is a big plus in our days of covid-19. Wildlife abounds and gives a feeling of peace.

Ni
Review №2

Nice little tucked away state park. We stopped to kill time on our trip and were not disappointed. There group picnic area is closed currently, but there are a handful of covered and uncovered picnic tables scattered by the parking lot. We only checked out the trail that loops to overlook the water, but the walkway was nice and the views were much better than expected. Overall a nice little spot to stop while in the area.

Ch
Review №3

I loved this park. The walk was awesome we seen lots and lots of wild life. A couple of deer, 3 eagles, several other kinds of birds, dragon flies, lots of frogs!! Good fishing as well. Over all its a great place to take family for a weekend get away. Picnic tables all over as well plenty of space to social distance as well!

Sa
Review №4

Loved it here. Saw 14 deer on our walk around the lake. They also have a porta potty half way around. Clean, toilet paper, hand sanitizer and no stink. Definitely going back. Beautiful walk.

pe
Review №5

Nice quick getaway. Cool looking dried up lake on one side, more water on the other. Lots of trees along the perimeter path with critters. Full perimeter walk is 8.8 miles. Shorter trails shoot off of it. Great bridges/walkways, would be even cooler with some water below. Saw an eagle in its nest thanks to the view finder on the gazebo. Gazebos were well kept and offered nice landscapes. Almost looked martian like. Niedrich trail has great scenery with lights in the trees that would look sweet at night. I played some conga drum at the picnic area with tumbleweeds whipping by me. Thanks to the tree for blocking me!

Br
Review №6

Great lake. Been there a bunch of times but now that Im experiencing it on the water in my canoe its much better. Caught a 24 Walleye the first day out with a trolling motor and the second time out in my canoe. Gets very choppy if the wind picks up but if youre lucky enough to get it on a calm day its perfect. Nice day use area, great boat ramp and small dock. $9 to get in. No overnight camping.

Me
Review №7

We absolutely love love love this place. The nature center is cool and has nicely priced souvenirs if you are into that. The trails are beautiful, and easy for my daughter who is 1 years old to walk with us. We have visited 3 times and have only been in the area a week and a half. We love this place. Definitely a go to for walks.

Ar
Review №8

Beautiful area. Popular bird and animal refuge. Great place to walk around in the Nature center. The lake is very dry now. The water has receded about a quarter mile. Still its quite colorful for the fall.

Ma
Review №9

Always have great family hikes and picnics here. Nature center is informative and cool place to hang out in.

Tr
Review №10

This is a pretty little lake. Lots of birds flying around which is cool. You can not swim here. We bring our kayaks out and its perfect because there are no big motor boats. The bathrooms are clean and there are a bunch of picnic tables peppered around the park. Next time we come we want to check out the archery range.

La
Review №11

Not really sure about this being an actual lake, I am from NV and it hit me kind of man made or even maybe like a sanitation pond kind of thing. Wither way great view of the Rockies, except there was CA wildfire smoke so I could barely see them, I imagine it is very nice in clear skies. Cute dock, lots of mosquitoes (of course) Tiny playground I noticed for tots, really cute stop if you have some time before travelling out.

Fu
Review №12

Ever shrinking place but still good for carp fishing

To
Review №13

A lovely place for a nice stroll. Love the bridge paths through the water. Spectacular birdwatching available here.

Da
Review №14

Since the Colorado Parks web page would not let me re-register my boat, this was the closest place to go to get it registered. Nice polite gal had me fixed up in a few minutes. The states web page listed an old motorcycle that I havent registered for 10 years, but didnt list the boat that Ive been registering for 15 years and no way to call or notify them that there page sucks, so doing it here.

M
Review №15

Went there for a walk the water is very low but Im told its used for farm irrigation and this is pretty much normal. Very friendly and helpful staff. I will be back when the eagles return and the water fills up. Cost was $9 . But I enjoyed my time there.

Sc
Review №16

Unfortunately Barr Lake is practically empty. If you want a trail to walk around on the prairie then that is good.

Je
Review №17

Overall just a nice park to get outside. Archery targets, 3D range top the list for things todo. The water level may vary different times if the year. Lake access is limited to only the north side. The south side has been designated a wildlife area. Plenty of parking and maintained trained next to the water.

Ka
Review №18

Water levels scary lowThey acted like the fishing was good for the low water level. . No one got a bite. Be prepared to get stuck in the mud.. . Nice staff tho

Je
Review №19

This is a perfect place to visit if youre into bird watching. The trail is well-maintained and there are so many different kinds of birds to see from pelicans to blue herons to geese to finches to bald eagles. I also saw a deer while I was there. Part of the lake is a wildlife refuge, so dogs are not allowed, but there is still plenty of trail that you can walk leashed dogs on. Highly recommend a visit here.

Mi
Review №20

Great place to get out in nature not too far from town. The lake is nearly dry right now due to the drought. That itself is a sight to take in. Lots of birds and a conservancy nearby.

Me
Review №21

One of my favorite place in Colorado. Visit on an early September morning to see bird banding right of the foot bridge. Walk out to the gazebo for lovely views of ducks, geese, eagles, and the rookery. Launch a kayak from the boat launch and watch shorebirds, herons, and pelicans from the boat! Love it.

Ga
Review №22

It was great at one time but not so much anymore. Cutting down a majority of the trees from pit 6 to pit 10. Shame on you for destroying this natural beauty.

G
Review №23

Water was super low being the fall of a drout year. Was a long ways below the boat ramp so the ramp was closed and you had to carry your boat about 100 yards from the ramp to the water. But was still a nice day on the water and a beautiful reservoir.

Na
Review №24

I Went here back in mid June for a Scout outing and had a great time other than the fact that there was no swimming allowed and I know it was because of the amount of Algae in the water but if there is that much algae in the lake why not remove it somehow and with it being so hot I purposefully fell off a paddle board a few times just to cool off but the water was very warm which was nice because I wore a wetsuit that day thinking that the water was going to be very cold but other than that it was ok I would recommend this place if you’re someone that likes boating or fishing and doesn’t want to get wet because the water is pretty gross

Br
Review №25

Barr Lake is a nice place to visit if you need to get out of town but dont have three time to go all the way to the mountains. The paths are clear and there are fish in the lake. Theres also a small play ground for kids!

Ja
Review №26

Was a great place to explore and take a leisurely walk

Se
Review №27

Really low.... but a nice hike.

Ma
Review №28

Good park. Its got a nice lake at the center of it and various trails going around it. Very nice for bird watching.Great for fishing as well.All sorts of wild life even seen some deers there as well. You can ride bicycles, jog or walk and even horse ride. But no dogs allowed on the trail.Its very quiet there too.

Ky
Review №29

Even with the lake being drained, its still a beautiful and peaceful place to go for a walk and enjoy some quiet time.

Vi
Review №30

Best horse facilities for horsing around and they have water near by for your four legged buddies

Je
Review №31

I flew into Colorado for one day, thought I could go north to hike, to far, so I started looking for a place close by in Denver to hike and see some nature, so I ended up finding Barr Lake State Park. On this day the mountains still had snow on top, even though the day was about 75, beautiful. We actually found a nest of bald eagles, owls, snakes etc. I will definitely go back soon. Its $8 to park or $4 if you walk in. There was more to do but I had to leave. I recommend this place. Mahalo

Va
Review №32

Beautiful day at the lake the water was low but we know why the water is used to helped water the crops here in Brighton..

Ke
Review №33

Went here yesterday, and there were probably 50 or so bald eagles, and all of them were at the rookery next to the gazebo. They were close enough to hear, but not close enough for quality pictures without a long lens. They fought over fish they had caught, chased each other through the air, and soared on thermals rising over the water. To get here from Denver it’s anywhere from 20-60 minutes. From the nature center where you park, it’s a 1.3 mile walk to reach the gazebo. I advise you to be quiet for the comfort of both the eagles and the other birders.

Mi
Review №34

The water had tons of algae but really it was still a fun time. Way more calm than other lakes in the Denver area so better for kayaking so you arent surrounded by boats going 45 mph.

Da
Review №35

Beautiful park, water smells funky though so don’t get too close. Dogs are not allowed on half of the park. Great spot for a picnic!

Vi
Review №36

Very few people, made it feel comfortable with a smaller crowd. Ample of birds to look out at. Kids enjoyed the place and the wildlife...

Ch
Review №37

Hidden gem, whenever my flights are delayed by 2 hours this is my go-to park. $8 to get in but worth every cent. The loop is 8.8 miles around but youll see white pelicans, osprey, deer, and a cool bridge walkway.

Al
Review №38

Nice gravel path around the lake. Wildlife trail was beautiful too, lots of birds to see. Weve even been there when the bald eagles are nesting--so cool!

Wa
Review №39

Looks dead, drained & Desolated. The bugs were terrible & The fishing even worse. There for 2 hours it was windy as kansas & didnt even get a single bite!

To
Review №40

Had Ann amazing day with the family here! The path around the lake, accommodating whatever transport mode you choose, is one of serenity and tranquility. The impressively beautiful birds you easily spot throughout the walk are plentiful and sometimes you get to see a show. Theres plenty of seating along the way to rest or just take in the scenery, along with some enclosed structures (blinds). All in all I gladly can say i feel Barr lake is a 5 star daystaynation!

Jo
Review №41

Lovely quiet lake with lots of wildlife. Go for a stroll or ride the 8.8 mile soft path around the lake. Limited no wake boating. Dogs only in designated areas. Lived it.

Pe
Review №42

I always enjoy this park - its a great place for kids to run around, see some nature (especially birds) picnic, and they have a great nature center with fun stuff.

Ni
Review №43

What a beautiful park with easy access. The wildlife viewing and relaxing are amazing. When I travel to Denver, I typically stay near the airport and I have limited free time. Being relatively close makes this a must stop. I cant wait to go back and see more

Pe
Review №44

Nice Place for an Evening Stroll!!I had the opportunity to visit Barr Lake Stae Park while in the area for business. After a big meal at Applebees, I wanted to go somewhere and walk off my dinner. I noticed this State park on Google Maps and went to check it out. When I arrived I saw birders, boaters, and many many people fishing. There was ample parking and I made my way to the trails and went for a nice sunset walk. The area is very scenic, and at sundown, it was a great place to be. The park was clean and I had no issues with any people there. It was a very nice place to visit.

Ma
Review №45

Somewhat devoid of structure fishing is best in the late fall and early spring. In the summer this place is great for boating but the water clarity is low. Dont forget your big spray.

Br
Review №46

No better place for birding in the state of Colorado in my opinion. The amount of species that you can see is amazing and a trip here is never a disappointment.

Aa
Review №47

Only went to the archery range, but the facility was very nice. Targets and facility is nice. The 3D range is a lot of fun and set up nicely.

Ca
Review №48

Absolutely a wonderful place to enjoy nature and see wildlife. Check the website for special events! Look into an annual pass.

je
Review №49

Great place to relax and walk around.I always see lots of beauty and animals in the nature.

Ti
Review №50

Great for kayaking or paddling. Ive not had much success fishing here but I know others have. Lots of birds! Gets crowded quickly on weekends and the last time we were there there were a couple rangers that were really nasty, not sure if theyre not used to big crowds, but it was unpleasant and made us feel very unwelcome. Normally the staff is quite pleasant. Best to visit during the week when things are more low key and not as stressful.

Vi
Review №51

I liked it a lot. The colors you can find for your pictures are great!

Ch
Review №52

Best place for bird watching, listen to bid chirping. Natural trial is a Great feel. Highly recommend to visit to see birds..

Sr
Review №53

Beautiful place. Lots of birds to see

Ga
Review №54

I love this place. You feel like youre in the middle of nowhere on certain points the trail, the bird watching is phenomenal, and the Nature center and staff are awesome. This is my go-to place for weekend nature church, I highly recommend it for walking, biking, fishing, boating, and of course bird watching!

Os
Review №55

Its nice, just not my favorite fishing spot. Nice to walk and bird watching

An
Review №56

Been here a few times. The eagles are usually hit or total miss, but its a nice place to walk, think, and enjoy the views.

Fr
Review №57

Wildlife and nature were amazing. The structures and amenities need improvements, especially considering the cost to enter. You would hope those.funds would be used to make safer walkways?

Al
Review №58

I’m sure this is a great place in the spring and fall, but summer is pretty tough. There are better places to go in the Denver summer

Sh
Review №59

Its beautiful here and smells fredh, not like a stagnant lake. The trail around the lake has plenty of trees so there is shade. Definitely take but spray and a camera!

Ca
Review №60

Water level was very low, green residue along the edge. Some people were in the water. We did not get in the water, just grilled our food, ate it and left.

Kr
Review №61

Plenty of wildlife to see but navigating the paths with snow was a little difficult, especially the bridge.

Ry
Review №62

Bald eagle paradise. Good bird viewing. Pleasant trails.

Ca
Review №63

Beautiful and wonderful birds. Downside, mosquitoes. I got eaten alive.

Le
Review №64

Nice walk on a hot day. Lake is way down with drought

Al
Review №65

Very nice trail to walk or ride your bike. Very nice staff and super friendly. Nice nature center.

St
Review №66

Nice place to go for a walk or ride a bike, there is no swimming or wading in the water they do have a small boat dock and you can fish here.

Yo
Review №67

The best place for bird view, fishing, and kayaking. Compared to Chatfield Reservoir the water body here is more natural and less packed by boats. In addition, it is ideal for hiking and camping in cool summer night.

Ra
Review №68

One of our favorite things to do during Covid is come over and grill out and watch the sun set. Its a smaller state park, but you can hike 9 miles around the lake, you can do troller boats and kayaks and such. Its a nice place to spend the day with your family.

Ke
Review №69

Love this place lots of wildlife. Kayaking is good. Rangers are great!

Lo
Review №70

Oh this place has really changed! Just there yesterday, February 15, 2020. I’ve never seen the place so crowded. Sadly, people chase wildlife away just by our presence. It used to be a quiet, reflective place to go. Not anymore. There is even a shuttle (golf cart) now for folks to get out to the viewing area/gazebo and back. The line of people waiting was pathetic. It’s just not that far of a walk. And then there’s the driver of the golf cart—older gentleman who finds sadistic pleasure in splashing all the people walking with mud and slush. What a sad turn of events! Nice education nature center improvements, but the old adage applies here: IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME. Eagles abound elsewhere and no sign of any hawks or other waterfowl like in years past.

je
Review №71

Love it here. You can see so many see eagles in winter!

Da
Review №72

Beautiful I will have to take my bike to ride the trail its a huge park you have the lake with the beautiful mountains in the background with several things to do alone or with family :)

Wa
Review №73

Lawnmowers......I truly love Barr lake ..but I realy dont understand why on a saturday 100 degree heat near the picnic tables someone has to mow the weeds. This is not far from the visitors center and this was my first excursion since corona virus. Why did the weeds have to be mowed at that moment on a saturday afternoon just trying for some peace and quiet.

La
Review №74

Barr Lake is gorgeous. Theres a great trail all the way around the park, and plenty of spots to stop and watch wildlife. Apparently its one of the best places for bird watching in Colorado and I encountered quite a handful knowledgable wildlife photographers on my hike. I really enjoyed watching the family of Bald Eagles flying around!

Ga
Review №75

Quite the place. All kinds of walking paths and 300 plus bird species. Very quiet too

fr
Review №76

Great place to fish. Itwas fun experience with the common carp spawning. Clean and friendly place and had a great area for handicap parking and fishing area.

La
Review №77

Such a beautiful park, we had so much fun at the kids overnight adventure camp too.

fr
Review №78

Everyone was nice and helped me learn the boat rules. Definitely will be back.

Je
Review №79

Giant pelicans and other wild life made this trip so nice and peaceful. Great place to walk and have a picnic

Ya
Review №80

Great place for birding, but gets a bit busy on the weekend around 7-8am.

Va
Review №81

Barr Lake is a great place for canoeing, kayaking, biking, and the bow range along with the 3D range is always fun.

Gw
Review №82

Trails to walk, ride, enjoy! Nature center friendly & informative. Quiet, close to home nature park. Great experience for all ages of family n friends day pack the cooler & enjoy! $9/car

Hi
Review №83

Barr Lake State Park is amazing! Just go. And if you are a bird lover...enjoy the 350+ species and bird watching huts.

Sn
Review №84

I loved this park when we first moved to the area, its good for walking around, park rangers are nice.Great nature center, Archery range, fun kid friendly trails, bird watching and fun events. This park is great! Ive loved the animal encounters, life lessons and discoveries my kids have made here.Some of the experiences weve had with the people here have driven us away.

mi
Review №85

Visited on a busy Sunday. The visitor center workers were ok, however the 2 volunteers that operated the shuttles to the viewing board walk were phenomenal. Both men were extremely knowledgeable about the park and wildlife. They were also very accommodating to the guests. Keep up the good work.

Bl
Review №86

A beautiful place with really cool paths all around the lake. Tons of large birds! However during spring and into summer it can be so buggy after it rains that I could see it being unbearable at times for a lot of people. Just just avoid it right after it rains. There are sometimes baby bald eagles there too!

He
Review №87

Super pretty park and cheap to get into. They have activities all the time going on. We had our family photos done here last year.

Ka
Review №88

Loved the lake and the amazing wildlife such ad eagles, owls and geese.

Bi
Review №89

Went to see Eagles, but the ice was frozen. They stay away when that happens. So only saw 3 from about 1/2 mile away. Still a nice park. Will visit in summertime as well.

Mi
Review №90

Wonderful! Excellent fishing and bird watching!

Mi
Review №91

One of the best outdoor archery ranges in town and just a lovely place in general. The lake is very calm and the people are very respectful and mostly keep to themselves.

Br
Review №92

Very calm peaceful place to fly kite with the kids.

ca
Review №93

Not really worth it to drive to this place, I would just recommend visiting if its on your way.

Bi
Review №94

Over 370 species of birds have been spotted at this special lake. Lots of history and interesting things to learn about. Plenty of nature and some good lessons to learn about Colorados precious water. 9 mile track for those that want to get some long hiking or biking in.

Ka
Review №95

Cold windy day but fun, none the less! A ranger set up his telescope to look at bald eagles and showed us how to use our phone to take pics through it. He said you could zoom in but I liked the on with the circle.

Ca
Review №96

A little buggy but the lake keeps the air cool and comfortable

Kr
Review №97

Not alot of shore fishing and half the lake is a wildlife reserve with one small sign so be careful where you fish. boat wise this isnt a bad lake at all

Ma
Review №98

A beautiful place for a non-demanding walk. Lots of wildlife visible from the trail, even in January. I really enjoyed all the boardwalks over the lake. Although, a building, highway or other human invention was inescapably visible or audible no matter where we were. So, if youre looking for complete immersion in nature, I wouldnt recommend it. It was also very crowded on a Sunday afternoon.

Be
Review №99

Very nice place for fishing and beginner level hiking.

Ye
Review №100

It had a great archery range and the lake is beautiful too watch wildlife at.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.5 Rating
  • Address:13401 Picadilly Rd, Brighton, CO 80603, United States
  • Site:http://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/barrlake
  • Phone:+1 303-659-6005
Categories
  • State park
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:5am–10pm
  • Tuesday:5am–10pm
  • Wednesday:5am–10pm
  • Thursday:5am–10pm
  • Friday:5am–10pm
  • Saturday:5am–10pm
  • Sunday:5am–10pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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