It’s a real treat to get out early on a summer morning and enjoy the serenity of Standley Lake, especially from the vantage point of a kayak, where you’re level with the cool water and have the same view as the ducks and geese paddling around leisurely. My husband, daughter, and I recently spent some time kayaking on Standley Lake, which is in Standley Lake Regional Park in Westminster, Colorado. The lake features 1,100 surface acres with approximately 250 surface acres designated for non-motorized vessels only, although the entire lake is accessible.
We rented kayaks at the water’s edge — I recommend spending at least two hours exploring the shoreline of Standley Lake when it’s peaceful – for me that means early morning – where you can see and hear the wildlife, including the cacophony of Heron chatter. Hundreds of Heron perch on trees situated on what is known as Bird Island. It’s easy to kayak around that, and there’s an entire no-motor area where it’s easier to glide around without being in the wake of motor boats.
Another reason to go first thing in the morning is because watercraft rentals take place on a first-come, first-serve basis and watercraft rentals are popular. In addition to renting single kayaks, you can explore the lake by double kayak, canoe, hydrobike, stand-up paddle board, and row boat.
An easy excursion from anywhere in the metro Denver area, this lake is worth a visit, if not to play with the water craft, then just to relax and commune with nature.
Rentals are available every day from May 1st – September 30th from 9am to 5pm. For more information, visit: Standley Lake Regional Park.
