Medano Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

It's a great place to fish, swim, canoe, and explore. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails in the area. The lake is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, so there's plenty of time to enjoy all that it has to offer. During the summer months, the lake is heated by the sun, making it a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing. There are also several restaurants and cafes near the lake, so you can grab a bite to eat after a day of exploring. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or an adventure, Medano Lake is sure to have something for you.

Medano Lake is a natural body of water located in Saguache County, Colorado. The lake is fed by the Medano Creek, which flows from the nearby Sangre de Cristo mountains. The lake is known for its dramatic tides, which can cause the water level to rise and fall by as much as six feet in a single day. These tides are caused by the wind blowing across the surface of the water. Medano Lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, and herons. The lake is a popular destination for birdwatchers and fishing enthusiasts. In recent years, the lake has become increasingly popular with tourists seeking to experience its unique tidal activity.Medano Lake has a long history dating back to the days of the early Native Americans. The first recorded explorers to visit the lake were members of the Lewis and Clark expedition, who noted its unusual tides in their journals. The creek and lake were later named after Antonio Medano, a Spanish settler who established a ranch in the area in the 1800s. Today, Medano Lake is a popular tourist destination and an important part of Saguache County's heritage.

The best time to visit Medano Lake in Saguache County, Colorado is from late May to early June. At this time of year, the snowmelt from the nearby mountains has begun to fill the lake, and the water is a beautiful turquoise color. The weather is also perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the great outdoors.

1. Arrive early to get a good spot. The lot fills up quickly, and there are no designated spots. Some people have been known to stake out their spot the night before.
2. There is no cell service at the lake, so be sure to let people know where you are going before you leave.
3. Pack your swimsuit! Medano Lake is a great place to take a dip and cool off on a hot day. No lifeguards are on duty, so swim at your own risk.
4. If you're visiting in the winter, bring your cross-country skis or snowshoes for exploring the area.
5. Be cautious of wildlife. The area around the lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes. Be sure to educate yourself on safety precautions before your visit.
6. Hike at your own pace. The trail around the lake is just over two miles long, but it can be challenging in places due to the elevation gain. Take your time and enjoy the views!

1. Medano Lake is a natural freshwater lake that is approximately five square miles in size.The lake is fed by the Medano Creek, which runs through the nearby town of Saguache.
2. The lake is a popular destination for canoeing, fishing, and bird watching.The surrounding area is also popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
3. The Medano Pass Primitive Road runs through the area, providing access to scenic views and recreation opportunities.
4. In the winter, the road is closed to vehicles and becomes a popular snowmobile route.
5. Medano Lake is located within the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which was established in 1932 to protect the area's unique ecosystem. The park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching heights of up to 750 feet. 

Visitors generally agree that half a day is the minimum amount of time needed to explore the area and appreciate its natural beauty. For those who want to spend more time at Medano Lake, there are plenty of activities to keep them busy. 

The lake is located in Saguache County, Colorado, and can be reached by taking Highway 285 from the town of Nathrop. From Highway 285, take County Road T north for about six miles. The lake will be on your right. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Medano Lake, Saguache County, Colorado. However, there are numerous hiking trails in the area, and many of them require a free permit from the U.S. Forest Service. There are also some camping areas located around the lake that require a fee for overnight use. Fishing is also a popular activity at Medano Lake, and a valid Colorado fishing license is required in order to fish in the lake.

The lake is open to the public from sunrise to sunset, and there are no entrance fees. During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty at the beach area from 10 AM to 6 PM.