(Last Updated On: April 16, 2022)

kayaking at sylvan lake state park

Kayaking at Sylvan Lake State Park. Photo: Sylvan Lake State Park Facebook

Sylvan Lake State Park is a Colorado State Park located in Eagle, and is around 141 miles west from the city of Denver. The park offers boating, fishing, horseback riding, and hiking with great views of Sylvan Lake.

Activities

There are a large variety of amusements available to Sylvan Lake State Park visitors.

Here are some highlights of the many activities at Sylvan Lake park:

Boating At Sylvan Lake State Park

Sylvan Lake spans 42 acres and is open to boaters. Keep in mind the only boats that are allowed on the lake are non-motorized boats or boats with electric trolling motors.

Paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks are all allowed on the lake as well, so long as they do not produce wake.

There are also vessels available for rent, so even first-time visitors to the park can take advantage of the gorgeous views and calming waters.

All boats must be inspected for aquatic nuisance species (ANS) before launching in the lake.

Hiking At Sylvan Lake State Park

Sylvan Lake State Park has several hiking trails that allow visitors to take in gorgeous views of the park.

The various trails connect between the day-use areas and the campgrounds and provide access to various fishing trails.

For those looking for more nearby hiking trails, the White River National Forest has plenty of trails available, including Sneve Gulch, McKenzie Gulch, Nolan Lake, and more.

Here are some of the trails at Sylvan Lake State Park:

  • Sylvan Lake Trail – This trail leads to excellent fishing locations, and can also be a relaxing walk for those looking to stretch their legs or take in the sights. Length: 1.5 miles
  • West Brush Creek Trail – This is one of the longer trails in the park, and connects the Meadows Day Use Area to the lake and the campground in the park. Length: 5.8 miles

Biking At Sylvan Lake State Park

Biking is allowed in Sylvan Lake State Park. The trail around the lake is open to mountain biking, and the various roads and trails within White River National Forest are open to mountain biking.

For more information about local biking trails, check out the state park website.

Fishing At Sylvan Lake State Park

Sylvan Lake is open to fishing. The lake is home to rainbow and cutthroat trout, as well as brook and brown trout.

Fishing is not allowed between September 1st to the end of November, specifically between the lake inlet and 1/2 mile upstream. This allows the fish to spawn without interruption and helps preserve the natural habitat of the lake.

For more information on fish availability, as well as fishing conditions and bag limits, check out the state park website.

Horseback Riding At Sylvan Lake State Park

Horseback riding is allowed in Sylvan Lake State Park along the West Bush Creek Trail.

Some areas of the trail may be too much for mounted riders, so be prepared to walk.

Horses are also welcome in White River National Forest. However, keep in mind that horses are not allowed in the campground, cabins, yurts, and any day-use areas of the park.

Winter Activities At Sylvan Lake State Park

Ice fishing is allowed on Sylvan Lake once the lake freezes over. There is fishing equipment available to borrow in the park, as well as a fishing shanty.

Ice skating is allowed in the park as well, although skaters should be aware they need to bring their own shovel and clear out a skating area.

Sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are all welcome in the park in the appropriate season, as well as winter camping.

Pets At Sylvan Lake State Park

Dogs are welcome in the park so long as they are kept on a six-foot or shorter leash, and their waste is properly removed.

Horses are allowed in the non-developed areas of the park, however, there are no horse care facilities within the park and parking spaces for horse trailers are not guaranteed.

Camping At Sylvan Lake State Park

Sylvan Lake State Park has both RV and traditional campsite locations available for reservation.

There are also cabins and yurts available for rent in the state park, as well as winter camping options.

For more information about camping in the park, as well as amenities available, check out the state park website.

Park Location

Sylvan Lake State Park
10200 Brush Creek Road
Eagle CO 81631
Phone: 970.328.2021
Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showing different activities at Sylvan Lake State Park: