Lily Lake is a small, shallow reservoir in the Front Range foothills near Estes Park

Lily Lake sits at 8,948 feet in Boulder County, about 6 miles south of Estes Park on Colorado Highway 7. It is a 5.5-acre impoundment on the north fork of the St. Vrain Creek, surrounded by ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. The lake is shallow — maximum depth around 20 feet — and stays cold year-round because of its elevation and spring-fed character. It is a day-use-only facility with a small parking area, a picnic ground, and a short trail loop around the water.

Lily Lake is known for being accessible to families and beginning anglers. The shoreline is mostly open, the walk from the parking area to the water is short, and the lake receives regular stocking. It is not a destination for trophy fishing, but it is a reliable place to catch trout if you know the season and what to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • Lily Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and holds some naturally reproducing brown trout, with the best fishing from May through October.
  • You must have a valid Colorado Parks and Wildlife fishing license, and the lake is open year-round but freezes solid in winter.
  • Shoreline access is the only option — no boats or float tubes are permitted on the water.
  • The parking area fills on weekends and holidays, especially in summer; arrive early or plan for a weekday visit.
  • Fly fishing and light spinning tackle both work; small nymphs, dry flies, and spinners in sizes 12 to 18 are most effective.

When to Fish Lily Lake

Lily Lake is open year-round, but practical fishing seasons depend on ice. From May through October, the water is ice-free and the weather is mild enough for comfortable fishing. This is when the lake receives most of its stocking and when trout are most active. Summer (June through August) sees the most visitors and the warmest water temperatures, which can push trout deeper during midday.

Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) often produce better fishing because the water is cooler and trout feed more actively throughout the day. Winter fishing is possible if you are willing to deal with ice and snow, but the lake typically freezes solid by December and remains locked until April. Check current conditions with Colorado Parks and Wildlife before planning a winter trip.

What Fish Live in Lily Lake

Lily Lake holds rainbow trout from regular stocking and a smaller population of brown trout that reproduce naturally in the inlet stream. Rainbow trout in the lake typically range from 8 to 14 inches, with occasional fish to 16 inches. Brown trout are less common but can reach larger sizes if they survive to maturity.

The lake does not hold cutthroat trout or other species. Because the lake is shallow and spring-fed, water temperatures stay cold even in summer, which keeps trout active. The stocking schedule varies by year; check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website or call their Northeast Region office for current stocking dates and numbers.

Fishing Methods and What Works

Both fly fishing and spinning tackle produce fish at Lily Lake. Fly anglers should focus on small nymphs — size 14 to 18 — fished near the inlet where the stream enters the lake. Pheasant tail nymphs, hare's ear patterns, and small caddis imitations are reliable choices. Dry fly fishing works best in early morning and evening, particularly with small Adams or pale morning dun patterns in sizes 16 to 20.

Spinning anglers do well with small spinners (sizes 0 to 1) in silver or gold, or with inline spinners like Panther Martins. Cast along the shoreline and retrieve slowly. The lake has no deep structure — it is uniformly shallow — so fish are often spread along the entire perimeter. Worms and small soft plastics also work but are less efficient than lures or flies.

The inlet stream (north fork of St. Vrain Creek) upstream from the lake holds small trout and can be productive in spring and early summer if you have a short fly rod and do not mind tight quarters. The outlet stream below the dam is closed to fishing.

Access, Parking, and Regulations

Lily Lake is reached via Colorado Highway 7, south of Estes Park. From the town of Estes Park, drive south on Highway 7 for about 6 miles; the lake entrance is marked and parking is on the right. The parking area holds roughly 30 vehicles and fills quickly on weekends and holidays, especially in July and August. Arrive before 9 a.m. on summer Saturdays and Sundays if you want a spot. Weekday visits are less crowded.

The lake is day-use only — no overnight camping. A short paved trail loops around the lake (about 1 mile), and fishing access is from the shoreline. No boats, kayaks, canoes, or float tubes are permitted. Wading is allowed but the bottom is soft and muddy in places, so wear boots with good grip.

You must carry a valid Colorado Parks and Wildlife fishing license. Licenses are sold online at the CPW website, at sporting goods stores in Estes Park and Boulder, and at some convenience stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you fish only occasionally. Trout have no special restrictions at Lily Lake — standard statewide regulations apply (check the current CPW fishing guide for possession limits and size restrictions, as these can change year to year).

What to Bring and What to Expect

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water — the lake sits in open terrain with little shade. The elevation (8,948 feet) means the air is thin and the sun is intense. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so plan to fish in the morning and leave by early afternoon. Bring a light jacket or fleece even in summer; the wind can pick up and the water is always cold.

The parking area has vault toilets but no running water or food service. Picnic tables are available if you want to bring lunch. The trail around the lake is easy and popular with families and hikers, so expect to share the space, especially on weekends. Dogs are permitted on leash.

Cell service is spotty. The nearest town with restaurants and lodging is Estes Park, about 6 miles north. The nearest fly shop is in Estes Park (several options exist; search online for current locations and hours).

Nearby Water and Alternative Options

If Lily Lake is crowded or you want to explore other water, several options are within 30 minutes. The St. Vrain Creek itself (both north and south forks) holds wild brown and cutthroat trout and is open to public fishing in many sections. Peaceful Valley Campground, also on the north fork, has stream access and is less crowded than Lily Lake.

Brainard Lake, about 10 miles west of Estes Park, is a larger alpine lake with cutthroat and brook trout; it is higher elevation (10,500 feet) and the road closes in winter. Granby Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake, about 40 miles west, are larger reservoirs with rainbow and kokanee salmon. Each has different regulations and seasons, so check CPW before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Lily Lake in winter?

The lake typically freezes solid by December and remains locked until April. If you want to fish in winter, check current conditions with Colorado Parks and Wildlife first. Ice fishing is technically possible but the ice is often thick and the parking area may not be plowed.

Do I need a special license or stamp to fish here?

You need a valid Colorado Parks and Wildlife fishing license. No additional stamps or permits are required for Lily Lake. A one-day license is the cheapest option if you fish only once or twice a year.

What is the best time of day to fish?

Early morning (sunrise to 10 a.m.) and evening (4 p.m. to sunset) are most productive. Midday in summer can be slow because trout retreat to deeper water and the sun is intense. Cloudy days are often better than clear days.

Can I use bait or do I have to fly fish?

Bait, spinning tackle, and fly fishing are all permitted. Worms and small soft plastics work but are less efficient than lures or flies. Spinning tackle with small spinners is probably the easiest method for beginners.

Is there a fish cleaning station or facility?

No. The lake has vault toilets and picnic tables but no cleaning station. If you keep fish, you will need to clean them at home or at your lodging.