green grass near body of water under blue sky during daytime
Photo by Alden Maben on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area

Walden, CO · Boat Ramp · Public

Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area is a public boat ramp on Delaney Butte Lakes near Walden, Colorado. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Launch into Delaney Butte Lakes near Walden, Colorado. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area is a public access point on Delaney Butte Lakes in Colorado, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area sits about 15 min from Walden, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area is a public boat ramp in Colorado. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area?
The best time to paddle at Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area?
Water conditions at Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area good for beginners?
Yes, Delaney Butte Lakes State Wildlife Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 40.7008, -106.4565

Quick Facts

Region
Rocky Mountains
Getting There
~15 min from Walden
Get Directions

40.7008, -106.4565

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