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Lake Dillon CO: Your Complete Guide to the Reservoir, Activities & Living Near the Water

According to Denver Water, Lake Dillon is the largest body of water in Summit County. Also known as Dillon Reservoir, Lake Dillon is the centerpiece of Colorado mountain living at its best.

You are on the water at 9,017 feet above sea level. Four ski mountains are visible from the boat. The wind fills the sail. The water is flat and cold and completely clear. There is nothing else quite like it in Colorado.

Lake Dillon is surrounded by the towns of Frisco, Silverthorne, and Dillon. It draws boaters, anglers, sailors, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the region every summer. This guide covers everything you need to know about the lake, what you can do there, and what it is like to own property nearby.

What Is Lake Dillon?

Lake Dillon is a freshwater reservoir built by Denver Water and managed to supply drinking water to Denver and Front Range communities.

According to Denver Water, Lake Dillon holds about 40% of water supply stored for the metro area. Construction of the dam began in 1961 and was completed in 1963.

When Lake Dillon was built, the original town of Dillon was flooded. Residents were relocated about a mile north to the current town of Dillon, which now rests on the shore of the reservoir.

The lake is managed by Denver Water, which controls the water levels throughout the year. In fall, Denver Water draws down the reservoir to make room for snowmelt in spring.

That is why the shoreline looks lower in late fall and rises again as winter snowpack melts into the lake over the following months.

Swimming is not permitted in Lake Dillon because it is an active drinking water reservoir. This is a critical fact for visitors and buyers to know before arriving.

Key Facts About Lake Dillon

There are some interesting key facts worth knowing about Lake Dillon. These 8 are top of that list:

1. Surface area: 3,233 acres
2. Shoreline: 26.8 miles
3. Surface elevation: 9,017 feet above sea level
4. Water volume: 250,000 acre-feet
5. Rank in Colorado: 7th largest reservoir by volume according to Wikipedia
6. Managed by: Denver Water
7. Bordered by: Frisco, Silverthorne, and Dillon
8. Swimming: Not permitted because Lake Dillon is an active drinking water reservoir

What Rivers Feed Lake Dillon?

Three waterways empty into Lake Dillon, which is why the water level stays consistent through the warm months despite heavy recreational use and evaporation. These three waterways are:

The Blue River

The Blue River is the primary inflow and outflow of Dillon Reservoir. It flows from Breckenridge northward through the valley before entering the lake. After passing through the dam, the Blue River continues north through Silverthorne and beyond.

The Snake River

The Snake River flows through the Keystone resort area and the Snake River wetlands before entering Lake Dillon from the east. Properties along the Snake River in Keystone have views of the wetlands and wildlife that define that corridor.

Ten Mile Creek

Ten Mile Creek rises above Copper Mountain Ski Resort and follows alongside Interstate 70 through Frisco before emptying into the reservoir from the south. The paved bike path that runs from Frisco toward Copper Mountain follows alongside Ten Mile Creek for much of its route.

What Can You Do at Lake Dillon in Summer?

Lake Dillon comes alive from late May through September. Whether you are spending a week near the water or just passing through Summit County, here is how to make the most of the lake.

Sailing

Sailing is the signature activity on Lake Dillon. The afternoon winds that build consistently across the open water make conditions ideal for anyone who wants to get on a sail. You do not need to own a boat or know what you are doing to enjoy it.

The Dillon Marina rents sailboats by the hour. If you want to race, the Dillon Yacht Club runs regattas throughout the summer and welcomes beginners. Show up, sign up, and go. The experienced sailors will show you the ropes.

Boating and Powerboating

The Dillon Marina and the Frisco Bay Marina both rent powerboats, pontoon boats, and fishing boats. You can also launch your own vessel from either marina.

With 3,233 acres of open water, you can spend a full day cruising from one end of the lake to the other, stopping at inlets, circling islands, and finding your own quiet corner away from the crowd. It is one of the best ways to see the mountains that ring the lake from a completely different angle.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Both marinas rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. If you are new to paddleboarding, early morning is the best time to go out. The water is glassy and calm before the afternoon winds pick up and the lake traffic builds.

Paddle close to the shoreline and you get a completely different view of the terrain than you get from a car or a trail. The mountains drop right to the water's edge in several places and the views are worth the effort.

Fishing

Lake Dillon supports rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocks the lake regularly, so the fishing is consistent. If you are serious about catching something, go by boat.

The lake is big enough that fishing from shore limits where you can reach. A valid Colorado fishing license is required before you cast a line. You can buy one online at cpw.state.co.us or at local sporting goods stores in Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne.

Hiking and Biking Around the Lake

The Lake Dillon Recreation Path runs along much of the reservoir's shoreline and connects directly to the broader Summit County paved trail network. From the lake path you can ride all the way to Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone, or Silverthorne without touching a road.

It is about 18 miles of paved path around the lake and surrounding area. You can do a portion of it in an hour or spend a full day linking it to other Summit County trails. Bikes are available to rent in Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne if you did not bring your own.

What Can You Do at Lake Dillon in Winter?

When Lake Dillon freezes, the outdoor life around it does not stop. It just changes. So here are things you can enjoy at Lake Dillon in winter:

Ice fishing

Ice fishing on Lake Dillon is a winter tradition for Summit County locals. The same species you find in summer, rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, are accessible through the ice when conditions are safe.

Bring your own gear or rent from local outfitters in Frisco and Silverthorne. Before you head out, check current ice conditions with Colorado Parks and Wildlife at cpw.state.co.us to make sure the ice is thick enough to be safe.

Snowshoeing along the shore

The recreation path around the lake is accessible in winter for snowshoers. Strap on a pair and walk as far as you want along the frozen shoreline. The views of the ice-covered lake framed by snow-covered peaks are worth the cold. Snowshoes are available to rent in Frisco and Silverthorne if you do not own a pair.

Skiing at four nearby resorts

Lake Dillon is visible from runs at Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Arapahoe Basin. On a clear day you can stop halfway down a run, look out across the frozen reservoir, and see the entire valley spread below you.

All four resorts are within 10 miles of the lake. The free Summit Stage bus connects the lake area towns to all four mountains throughout the ski season, so you do not need a car to get there.

What Rules and Regulations Govern Lake Dillon?

Before you head to Lake Dillon, it helps to know what is and is not allowed. According to the Denver Water Dillon Reservoir recreation page, these are the rules governing authority for recreation at the reservoir:

Lake Dillon’s General Rules and Regulations

These rules apply to everyone who visits the lake, whether you are boating, camping, fishing, or just walking along the shore.

1. No swimming or water contact sports. Due to cold water temperatures and water quality concerns, swimming, scuba diving, water skiing, and all other water contact activities are prohibited. Windsurfing with a full body wet suit or dry suit is permitted.
2. No fireworks. It is unlawful to use, light, or ignite fireworks or explosives of any kind without a permit from the management committee.
3. Dispose of waste properly. All litter, wastewater, and fish entrails must go in designated trash containers.
4. Motorized vehicles stay on designated roads. Automobiles and motorcycles must be licensed and remain on designated roadways. Recreational vehicles, vehicles with trailers, and any vehicles carrying hazardous materials are prohibited from Dillon Dam Road.
5. Pets must be leashed. All pets must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Pet owners must clean up after their animals.
6. No trespassing on dam structures. Trespassing on any dam structure, spillway, facility building, or closed area is prohibited.
7. Waterfowl hunting is allowed within the Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area boundaries strictly in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
8. Hovercraft, seaplanes, and personal watercraft are prohibited. This includes Jet Skis and any vessel with an above-transom exhaust.
9. No wakeboarding, water skiing, or parasailing. Recreational towing of any kind is prohibited.
10. No motorized vehicles on the ice. Snowmobiles and other motorized vehicles are not permitted on the reservoir's ice surface. Non-motorized users may go on the ice at their own risk.
11. No drones. Unmanned aircraft systems are not allowed to launch or land on Denver Water property.

Lake Dillon Boating Regulations

1. Colorado boating laws apply. All boaters must follow Colorado boating statutes and regulations.
2. 30 mph speed limit. No boat or vessel may travel faster than 30 mph at any time under any circumstances. Law enforcement and emergency vessels are exempt.
3. No personal watercraft. Jet Skis and similar personal watercraft are not permitted on the lake.
4. Required safety equipment. Boat operators must carry all safety equipment required by state law for the size and type of boat. This includes personal flotation devices (PFDs), navigation lights, backfire flame control, fire extinguishers, and audible devices such as whistles. PFDs and fire extinguishers must be readily accessible.
5. Children 13 and under must wear a PFD at all times.
6. All vessels must be properly registered through the Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation and must display the registration number in the correct location.
7. All boats except inflatables, canoes, and other portable craft must be launched from a boat ramp. All trailered boats must use the Dillon Marina or Frisco Bay Marina. All hand-launched boat ramps have been closed.
8. Mandatory aquatic nuisance species inspections are required for all trailered boats at the marinas. These are provided by the Towns of Frisco and Dillon in cooperation with Denver Water.
9. No parking on boat ramps except during loading and unloading.
10. No operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
11. Watch for shallow areas and submerged obstacles. Unmarked hazards exist throughout the reservoir. Be cautious at all times.
12. Trailer storage is available at the lot on Lodgepole Street in Dillon and in designated areas at Frisco Bay Marina and Pine Cove Campground.

Lake Dillon Camping Regulations

1. No campfires on shoreline areas or any lands around the reservoir except where fireplace grills and fire rings have been provided. Never leave a campfire unattended and always comply with US Forest Service and local fire bans.
2. Campgrounds require US Forest Service permits. Campgrounds are operated by concessionaires. To reserve a site, call 1-877-444-6777.
3. No camping on islands.
4. Maximum 14-day stay: All camping is limited to 14 consecutive days. After that, you may not relocate within the Dillon area for a period of seven days.
5. No leaving equipment unattended for more than 24 hours. A camper, trailer, pitched tent, or motor vehicle left unattended for more than 24 hours is prohibited.
6. Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Lake Dillon Fishing Regulations

1. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older.
2. Colorado Parks and Wildlife enforces all fishing regulations. Contact them at cpw.state.co.us or 303-291-7227 for current rules.
3. The Blue River below the dam has been designated Gold Medal waters by the state. Special regulations apply. Check Colorado Parks and Wildlife for the full details.
4. No fishing from dam structures, closed areas, bridges, or boat ramps.
5. Ice fishing is permitted when conditions allow.

For the full and most current rules, always check the official Denver Water Dillon Reservoir recreation page before you visit.

What Is the Dillon Marina?

The Dillon Marina is the hub of activity on Lake Dillon from late spring through early fall. It is located in the Town of Dillon on the northeastern shore of the reservoir.

The marina offers boat slips, sailboat rentals, powerboat rentals, kayak rentals, a boat launch ramp, fuel, and marine supplies. The Tiki Bar at the marina is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors after a day on the water.

It offers food and drinks in an open-air lakeside setting. On regatta weekends the marina fills with competitors, spectators, and sailors of all levels.

The Frisco Bay Marina on the western shore of the lake offers the same core services: boat rentals, slips, a boat launch, and a seasonal waterfront dining option at The Island Grill.

What Is the Dillon Yacht Club?

Dillon Yacht Club is a sailing club based at Dillon Marina on Lake Dillon in Colorado. Founded in 1968, it is known as the highest yacht club in the world, at 9,017 feet above sea level.

The club is focused on sailing and racing on Lake Dillon. It hosts regular summer races, special sailing events, and the annual Dillon Open Regatta, which attracts sailors from around the country.

The Dillon Yacht Club also supports junior sailing and other community sailing activities, making it part of the broader recreational scene around Dillon Reservoir.

Thinking about owning near Lake Dillon?

Properties with lake views, lake access, and recreation path proximity command strong buyer interest in every season. Natalia Bassova of Resort Real Estate Inc. has over 21 years of experience in the Summit County market.

She knows which communities give you the best lake access, which ones are the strongest for rental income, and what is coming to market before it is publicly listed. Call 970-389-8899 or email summitrealty@luckymountainhome.com to talk through your options.

What Ski Resorts Are Near Lake Dillon?

Whenever you are at Lake Dillon, you are within a short drive of four major ski resorts in Colorado. These resorts are:

1. Keystone Resort: approximately 5 miles from the lake
2. Breckenridge Ski Resort: approximately 7-9 miles from the lake
3. Copper Mountain: approximately 8 miles from the lake
4. Arapahoe Basin: approximately 10 miles from the lake

The free Summit Stage bus connects the lake area towns to all four ski resorts throughout the ski season. You do not need a car to ski from most addresses near the lake.

What Real Estate Is Available Near Lake Dillon?

As said earlier, the three towns that surround Lake Dillon are Dillon, Frisco and Silverthorne. These three towns that border Lake Dillon each have distinct real estate markets. Let’s explore what you can find in each town below.

Dillon: The Town of Dillon is on the northeastern shore of the lake and has the most direct proximity to the Dillon Marina. The real estate market here includes condos, townhomes, duplexes, and luxury properties among others at various price points. Go to our Dillon real estate listings to see what is available.

Frisco: Frisco is on the western and southern shores of the lake and has the most active and diverse real estate market around the reservoir. The Frisco Bay Marina is here. The Summit County recreation path starts here. Condos, townhomes, new construction, and duplexes, among others are all available across the four areas of town. Explore Frisco real estate listings for available options.

Silverthorne: Silverthorne is on the northern shore of the lake and offers a mix of condos, townhomes, and homes with mountain and lake views. It is the largest of the three lake-adjacent towns and has a growing dining and retail scene along its main commercial corridor. Visit our Silverthorne real estate listings for current properties.

Lake Dillon is at the center of Summit County's year-round lifestyle. Sailing in summer. Ski mountains in winter. A recreation path that connects everything in between. Owning near the lake means having access to all of it without a long drive in any direction.

Natalia Bassova of Resort Real Estate Inc. helps buyers across Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Keystone, Breckenridge, and Copper Mountain. Call 970-389-8899 or email summitrealty@luckymountainhome.com to start the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Dillon

What is Lake Dillon used for?

Lake Dillon serves two primary purposes. First, it is a drinking water reservoir managed by Denver Water that supplies water to Denver and Front Range communities. Second, it is a major outdoor recreation destination for Summit County. Sailing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and ice fishing all take place on the reservoir. The recreation path around the lake connects to the broader Summit County trail system for cycling, running, and walking.

Can you swim in Lake Dillon?

No. Swimming is not permitted in Lake Dillon because it is an active drinking water reservoir managed by Denver Water. This applies to the entire reservoir surface. The Silverthorne Recreation Center has an indoor pool and aquatic facilities for those looking to swim in the area.

How deep is Lake Dillon?

Lake Dillon has an average depth of 79 feet across a surface area of 3,233 acres and a total water volume of 250,000 acre-feet. Denver Water draws down the water level in fall to make room for spring snowmelt, so the depth varies throughout the year.

What towns are on Lake Dillon?

Three towns border Lake Dillon: Frisco on the western and southern shores, Silverthorne on the northern shore, and Dillon on the northeastern shore. Each town has its own marina or marina access. Frisco has the Frisco Bay Marina. Dillon has the Dillon Marina. All three towns are connected to each other and to the broader Summit County trail network by the paved Lake Dillon Recreation Path.