Lake Avery - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

 There are several things to do at Lake Avery, including fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery, and there are plenty of fish to be caught in the lake. Swimming is also a great way to cool off on a hot day, and there are several designated swim areas at the lake. Finally, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. There are several picnic tables located around the lake, and visitors can bring their own food or purchase food from one of the nearby restaurants.

Lake Avery is a man-made reservoir located in Rio Blanco County, Colorado. The reservoir was created in 1965 by the United States Bureau of Reclamation as part of the San Luis Valley Project. The project was designed to provide irrigation water for agriculture in the San Luis Valley, as well as hydroelectric power and recreation. The dam that impounds the lake is 46 feet high and 1,320 feet long. It is situated at an elevation of 8,500 feet above sea level. The lake has a capacity of 30,200 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,760 acres. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping. Rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout are all found in the lake. In recent years, the lake has become increasingly popular with kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders due to its scenic beauty and challenging waters.

Late summer and early fall are the best times to visit Lake Avery. The water is warm and the days are sunny, making it ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. The autumn leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for hiking and camping.

1. Check the weather forecast before you go - conditions can change quickly at high altitudes, and the last thing you want is to be caught in a storm.

2. Wear comfortable shoes - you'll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your footwear is up to the task.

3. Be aware of your surroundings - there are many potential hazards at Lake Avery, so always be on the lookout for things like loose rocks or slippery slopes.

4. Stay on marked trails - there are many unmarked trails at Lake Avery, but it's best to stick to the ones that are clearly marked and maintain by the park staff.

5. Respect closure signs - some areas of the park may be closed due to hazardous conditions or wildlife activity. Be sure to obey all closure signs and stay out of closed areas.

6.  Make sure to pack a swimming costume – the water is refreshing and there’s a sandy beach to relax on.

7. Don't swim alone and be sure to stay within your depth limits to avoid getting pulled into deep water by the current. 10 Finally, have fun and enjoy your visit!

1.  Lake Avery covers a surface area of 1,255 acres and the average depth of the lake is 30 feet.
2.  Lake Avery has a capacity of 48,209 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1,255 acres.
3. Lake Avery is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout and brown trout and it is popular for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
4. Avery was formed millions of years ago when a large glacier melted and carved out a bowl-shaped valley.
5. The lake is also home to several species of trout, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout.
6. Lake Avery is truly a unique and beautiful place, and its rich history makes it all the more interesting to visit!

It depends on how much you want to see and do. The lake is large, and there are many different areas to explore. If you just want to drive around the lake, you could probably do it in a day. However, if you want to get out and really experience the lake, you'll need more time. hiking and fishing are popular activities, and there are also many scenic spots for picnicking and photography. In short, how much time you need to explore Lake Avery depends on your interests and goals. However, we recommend allowing at least two or three days to really enjoy all that the lake has to offer.

To reach the lake, take Highway 160 west from Alamosa for about 25 miles. Then turn south onto a dirt road and continue for another 2 miles. The lake is located in a remote area and is only accessible by foot or by horseback. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Lake Avery, Rio Blanco County, Colorado. However, there may be fees for camping, fishing, or using boat ramps. Check with the Rio Grande County Sheriff's Office for more information. 

The lake is open year-round. Hours may be subject to change due to weather conditions, so be sure to check the website or call ahead before planning your visit.