Willow Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Willow Lake in Saguache County, Colorado is a beautiful spot for a family vacation. The lake is situated in a picturesque valley, and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. In the summer, the lake is perfect for swimming, fishing and canoeing, and there are several hiking trails in the area. In the winter, the lake is a popular spot for ice skating and cross-country skiing. Willow Lake is also home to an observation tower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're looking for a summer getaway or a winter wonderland, Willow Lake is the perfect destination.

Willow Lake is a small lake located in Saguache County, Colorado. The lake is approximately 3 acres in size and sits at an elevation of 8,700 feet. Willow Lake is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and hiking. The lake is home to a variety of fish including cutthroat trout, brook trout, and rainbow trout. There are also a number of different mammals that can be found in the area including beavers, muskrats, and deer.

The history of Willow Lake dates back to the early 1800s when the area was first explored by Euro-American settlers. The first recorded mention of the lake was made in 1821 by Colonel Nicholas C. Wilcox who noted its location on a map of the area. In the late 1800s, the lake became a popular destination for fishermen from Denver and other parts of Colorado. Today, Willow Lake remains a popular recreation spot for both locals and visitors to the area.

The best time to visit Willow Lake in Saguache County, Colorado is from mid-July to early August. This is when the wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is warm but not too hot. The views from the lake are beautiful during this time of year, with the brightly colored flowers set against the backdrop of the mountains. 

1. Check the weather forecast before you go and dress appropriately. The lake is located at an elevation of 10,000 feet, so the temperature can drop quickly, even in summer. 
2. Pack plenty of food and water. There are no restaurants or stores nearby, and you'll want to be prepared in case of an emergency.
3. Bring a map and compass, and know how to use them. The area around the lake is remote and wilderness, and it's easy to get lost if you're not familiar with the area.
4. Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member so they know where you are and when you're expected to return.
5. Stay on established trails and campsites to avoid getting lost or damaging the fragile ecosystem around the lake. 
6. Don't swim alone and be aware of the dangers posed by hypothermia in cold water.
7. Please be respectful of other visitors and keep noise to a minimum, as this is a popular spot for birdwatching.
8. Fishing is also allowed in certain areas, so don't forget to pack your rod and tackle box.
    

1. Willow Lake is actually a man-made reservoir. It was created in the early 1900s by damming up a small creek.
2. Despite its name, willow trees are not very common around the lake. The shoreline is mostly forested with aspen and pine.
3.  Willow Lake is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, at an elevation of over 9,000 feet.
4. The average depth of Willow Lake is about 20 feet, but it reaches depths of over 40 feet in some areas.
5. Willow Lake is also home to a large number of birds, including ospreys, bald eagles, and herons.
6. The lake is fed by several streams, including the South Fork of the Rio Grande and the Culebra River.

Depending on how much time you have available, you could easily spend a day or two exploring Willow Lake and its surroundings. However, if you only have a limited amount of time, you should still be able to see most of the highlights in a few hours.

To reach Willow Lake in Saguache County, Colorado, follow these directions: take Highway 285 south from the town of Saguache for about 12 miles, then turn left (east) onto unpaved County Road YY. Follow CR YY for about 2.5 miles until you reach a fork in the road. Take the left fork, which is CR 3A, and follow it for about another mile until you see the sign for Willow Lake. The lake is just a short walk from the parking area.

There are no fees or permits required to access the lake or hike the trail around it. Enjoy your time at this beautiful spot in nature!

Willow Lake is open from 5 AM to 10 PM from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.