Blue Mesa Reservoir

In Gunnison County, Colorado, on the upper reaches of the Gunnison River, there is a man-made reservoir called Blue Mesa Reservoir. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation built Blue Mesa Dam, a 390-foot-tall earthen fill dam on the Gunnison in 1966 for the purpose of producing hydroelectric power, to create Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest lake fully within the state.

Colorado's largest body of water, Blue Mesa Reservoir, is located close to Gunnison in western Colorado; nevertheless, it is not a natural lake. Blue Mesa, which spans 20 miles and has 96 miles of shoreline, is a lot of fun in the summer. There are two full-service marinas where you may hire kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and powerboats.

For the gold medal and wild trout present in these waters, guided fishing trips are also offered; however, you are allowed to fish independently as long as you possess a valid state fishing license. Eat at Pappy's Restaurant, which has a gorgeous position facing the lake, for lunch while you're at the lake. Take a seat on the terrace and savor some comfort cuisine from Colorado, like some fresh trout.

Location: Gunnison County, Colorado