Barr Lake, Brighton Colorado - Barr Lake has great fishing opportunities. For the boater, this lake has motor restrictions (under 10HP) and is half cut off for a wildlife sanctuary.
Barr Lake prides itself as one of the best bird-watching areas in the state. Over 350 species of birds have been witnessed here. The southern half of the lake is very shallow and sectioned off to protect the wildlife habitat disallowing any access for fishing or boating and this division is clearly marked with a buoy line. The park is open from 5 am to 10 pm daily unless you are actively fishing in which case you are allowed to remain in the park after 10 pm. Barr Lake provides anglers great opportunity catch multiple species of fish in one day. This large lake has a 10HP max limit for motorboats, making it difficult to navigate if you have a large boat and only can use an electric motor. There is a nice and informative nature center in the refuge with seminars and presentations on wildlife in the area. Bring your binoculars as there are many birds and breeding nests along the shore. Eagles frequent this lake and are seen flying throughout the park. There are several sheltered picnic sites in the park providing a great getaway from the city. No camping is offered nearby. Swimming, diving, and wading are prohibited.
Getting there: From Denver north on I-76 to Bromley Lane. East on Bromley Lane to Picadilly Raod, then south on Picadilly Road to the Barr Lake State Park entrance. Fees: $6 daily $60 Annual State Parks Pass Boating: HP Restricted. 10 hp gas motors or electric trolling motors only. Ice Fishing: Permitted on north end.
