Best lakes in Broomfield County offer diverse outdoor experiences within Colorado's Front Range. The region features a mix of natural lakes, reservoirs, and smaller ponds, providing various recreational opportunities. These water bodies are often surrounded by open spaces and trails, offering views of the mountains to the west. Many areas are integrated into local parks and preserves, making them accessible for various activities.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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Cradleboard Trail is a short trail in Carolyn Holmberg Preserve in western Broomfield. It leads from the parking lot at South Brainard Drive to Stearns Lake and is a nice trail to view wildlife like prairie dogs and eagles.
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Explore Anthem Community Park, boasting expansive green spaces and a range of amenities. With a sizable shelter, permanent restrooms, and electricity available, it's perfect for picnics or gatherings. It's also home to the Siena Reservoir. It's a great place to hop off your bike!
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Mathew Glasser is a storage reservoir for the Broomfield Water Plant, named after a former city attorney who served as a project coordinator for the plant in the early 1990s. The reservoir's primary purpose is to protect the drinking water supply for Broomfield and its surrounding communities. As you ride by, keep an eye out for cackling and Canadian geese, as they are often spotted here due to the abundance of water and vegetation.
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Tom Frost Reservoir is located in the city of Broomfield and is part of the Broomfield County Commons Open Space. It includes a deck for fishing, and the area around the reservoir is a great location to spot wildlife like prairie dogs.
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Great residential trails east of Lowell BLVD with views of the front range all the way to Mt. Meeker in RMNP.
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Many lakes in Broomfield County are family-friendly. For example, Tom Frost Reservoir is part of the Broomfield County Commons Open Space and includes a fishing deck. Mathew Glasser Reservoir is known for birdwatching, and Anthem Community Park, which is home to Siena Reservoir, offers expansive green spaces, restrooms, and picnic facilities.
The Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm, which includes Stearns Lake, is an excellent spot for observing diverse wildlife like prairie dogs and eagles. The Cradleboard Trail leads directly to Stearns Lake and is known for wildlife viewing. Additionally, Tom Frost Reservoir is a great location to spot wildlife, and Mathew Glasser Reservoir is frequented by cackling and Canadian geese.
Yes, several lakes and ponds in Broomfield County are popular for fishing. Tom Frost Reservoir features a deck specifically for fishing. Tucker Lake is also a popular fishing spot, and many smaller Broomfield-owned ponds, such as Josh's Pond and Plaster Reservoir, are designated for fishing, subject to Colorado State regulations. A fishing license is required for individuals 16 years or older.
The Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm, including Stearns Lake, offers stunning views of the Front Range. Standley Lake, while adjacent to Broomfield, also provides impressive mountain views to the west. Additionally, Sienna Pond offers views of the Front Range all the way to Mt. Meeker in RMNP.
You'll find a variety of trails. Standley Lake has an extensive trail system around its perimeter, suitable for walking, running, and cycling. The Cradleboard Trail leads to Stearns Lake. McKay Lake features a 1.5-mile loop trail suitable for all skill levels. The Siena Reservoir also has an easy 1.2-mile loop trail. The Lake Link Trail connects several lakes, including McKay Lake and Stearns Lake, offering picturesque views.
Yes, there are several options for easy walks. The McKay Lake Trail is a 1.5-mile loop suitable for all skill levels. The Siena Reservoir Trail is also considered easy, offering a 1.2-mile loop. The Cradleboard Trail to Stearns Lake is a short, pleasant walk known for wildlife viewing.
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Standley Lake is popular for boating, paddleboarding, and cycling on its extensive trail system. Many Broomfield-owned ponds are designated for fishing. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Sterns Lake – Adler-Fingru Open Space loop' or the 'Big Dry Creek – Big Dry Creek Trail loop'. You can find more cycling routes at Cycling in Broomfield County. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Warembourg Open Space loop' available; discover more at MTB Trails in Broomfield County.
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm has parking available near Stearns Lake. McKay Lake Park and Open Lands also provide parking facilities. Many other lake access points and parks in the area offer designated parking lots.
McKay Lake is dog-friendly, with dogs permitted on its 1.5-mile loop trail, provided they are leashed. The Siena Reservoir Trail also allows leashed dogs and is open from March through November. Always ensure your dog is leashed and follow local regulations when visiting any open space or park.
While specific wheelchair accessibility details vary, the Siena Reservoir Trail is considered easy and lightly trafficked, which may make it more accessible than other trails. For detailed accessibility information, it's always best to check with the specific park or open space management before your visit.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring, summer, and fall offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports. The Siena Reservoir Trail is open from March through November. Winter can also be beautiful for walks, though some activities may be limited by ice or snow.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent running opportunities. Standley Lake has an extensive trail system popular for running. You can also find running routes like the 'Tom Frost Reservoir loop' or the 'Stearns Lake – Bald Eagle Nest Viewing Area loop'. For more running options, check out Running Trails in Broomfield County.


Still not found your perfect lake in Broomfield County? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.