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Spend a day relaxing on the still waters of Vallecito Lake! This gorgeous body of water is the just 18 miles from Durango, CO, and is a great destination for a day trip during your stay. While the community of Vallecito which surrounds the lake is small, with only a little over 300 residents, it’s certainly not lacking in fun! Find out the best things to do in the Vallecito region.

We’ve listed a couple of our favorite things to do in Vallecito Lake, but there’s plenty to discover! Click here to find the best attractions, restaurants, museums, historic sites, and annual events in the region! Don’t spend hours trying to find the best things to do in Durango. We’ve already done the work for you!

Visit Vallecito Lake

There’s a reason why Vallecito Lake is a popular fishing, swimming, and boating spot for residents of Durango. The high elevation (8,000 feet!) means that this lake stays breezy and cool during the dead heat of summer. During the winters, the lake often freezes, making it a prime location for ice fishing in Colorado! There’s even a famous ice fishing tournament held by the Vallecito Sporting and Conservation Association.

During the summer, this area becomes a hotbed for warm-weather anglers. Check one of the local Vallecito Lake fishing reports to get a preview of what the conditions might be at the lake. A great resource is from the Duranglers, who report on all the popular waters in the region.

Rent a Boat

If you’d like to take to the water, the Vallecito Marina is your first stop! This is your one-stop-shop for Vallecito Lake boat rentals. You’ll find pontoons, fishing boats, kayaks, and more. Their prices are reasonable, and you’ll be able to get on the water and start enjoying your day in no time.

Enjoy a Meal Near the Lake

If your day on the water has you hungry, visit one of the three Vallecito Lake restaurants. Vallecito Lake Country Market is sure to satisfy, no matter your craving. With a menu of pizza, burgers, authentic Mexican food, and yummy desserts, there’s plenty to enjoy. Consider visiting The Lake House Bar & Grill to treat yourself to dinner with a view. Their menu features burgers, hearty entrees, pizzas, and refreshing cocktails! If you’re renting a boat from the Vallecito Lake Marina, stop by Pura Vida Cafe, which is right in front of the marina. Their menu features delicious Mexican cuisine, plus an awesome drink selection!

Stay with Durango Colorado Vacations

After a day of relaxing on Vallecito Lake, return to a stunning property from Durango Colorado Vacations. You won’t be able to find a better selection of cabins, luxury homes, and condos anywhere else in Durango. Consider booking River Beauty, a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home that is perfect for the outdoorsy couple looking for a quiet retreat. Amenities include bikes and kayaks available for the guests’ use. No more hauling bulky equipment to your accommodations; when you stay at River Beauty, it’s already here!

Check out the rest of our gorgeous rentals and book today! We look forward to having you. See our secluded cabins in Durango, Colorado here!