Blue Mesa Reservoir. Photo Credit: equigini (iStock).

Blue Mesa Reservoir. Photo Credit: equigini (iStock).

Although Colorado is a landlocked state, it's still possible to find many miles of shoreline to enjoy during the summer, including at Blue Mesa Reservoir and the Curecanti National Recreation Area.

Blue Mesa Reservoir offers abundant recreation and plenty of lounge-worthy beaches, making it a summer paradise. Located on the upper reaches of the Gunnison River, the reservoir is part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area. It spans 20 miles and features over 96 miles of picturesque shorelines. Although much of the shoreline is rocky, there are plenty of refreshing swimming areas. The Bay of Chickens, Dry Creek, and Old Highway 50 beaches are all great places to cool off.

Boaters can also explore the reservoir, which includes several arms that lead into secluded canyons. The Elk Creek Marina offers pontoon boat rentals, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, as well as boat launching and loading services. The Elk Creek Marina opens on May 1. 

The reservoir also boasts extraordinary fishing, as it's stocked with millions of fish each year, plus, it's home to the largest kokanee salmon fishery in the U.S. Fishers can also find brown trout, rainbow trout, and lake trout at the reservoir.

Blue Mesa Reservoir provides everything you could look for in a summer paradise, with its shoreline, scenic views, and plenty of opportunities for water activities.

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