Lake Dillon & Frisco Bay Marina in Summit County, Colorado

Lake Dillon & Frisco Bay Marina

Colorado’s High-Alpine Lake Experience in the Heart of Summit County

Nestled at over 9,000 feet in elevation, Lake Dillon is one of Colorado’s most scenic and accessible alpine reservoirs. Surrounded by the Ten Mile Range, the Gore Range, and charming mountain towns, this 3,000+ acre lake offers year-round recreation just minutes from downtown Frisco.

Whether you’re visiting in summer for boating, sailing, or another of the vast array of summer activities, or enjoying winter’s snow-covered mountain views, Lake Dillon is a defining feature of any Frisco getaway.

Planning your stay? Our Frisco travel guide includes local recommendations, outdoor adventures, local tips, and highlights around town.  

Things to Do at Lake Dillon

Lake Dillon combines expansive open water with close proximity to town — making it both peaceful and convenient.

Popular activities include:

• Sailing and regattas
• Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding
• Pontoon and powerboat rentals
• Guided sailing lessons and tours
• Lake Dillon Water Taxi
• Lakeside biking and walking paths
• Fishing for trout and kokanee salmon
• Wildlife viewing and photograph
• Ice fishing (when conditions permit)

The lake’s calm morning waters and dramatic mountain backdrop create one of the most picturesque summer experiences in Summit County.

Lake Dillon is just one of the many outdoor highlights in the region. Discover more things to do in Frisco and many other things to do around Summit County to complete your getaway.

Frisco Bay Marina

Located on the northern shore of Lake Dillon, Frisco Bay Marina is the town’s primary access point for water recreation.

• Frisco Bay Marina
• 267 Marina Road
• Frisco, CO 80443
• (970) 668-4334

Website: https://www.townoffrisco.com/things-to-do/frisco-bay-marina

The marina offers:

• Boat, kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals
• Sailboat lessons and tours
• Fishing pole rentals
• Slips, moorings, racks, and dry storage
• Marina Park with playground and picnic areas
• Lakeside beach access
• Retail store and equipment services
• Frisco Rowing Center access
• Marina bar & grill

The marina is also recognized as a certified clean marina, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.

A Lake with History

Completed in 1963, Dillon Reservoir was created as part of Denver Water’s system. The original town of Dillon was relocated during construction of the dam, which diverts water beneath the Continental Divide through the Harold D. Roberts Tunnel.

Today, Lake Dillon spans more than 3,200 acres with nearly 27 miles of shoreline, supporting recreation, wildlife habitat, and regional water storage.

Personal watercraft such as Jet Skis are not permitted, helping preserve the lake’s quieter alpine character.

Trails & Surrounding Recreation

Lake Dillon connects directly to:

• The 50-mile Summit County Recreation Path
• The Sapphire Point overlook trail
• Old Dillon Reservoir Trail
• Numerous shoreline access points

Both paved and natural-surface trails provide scenic access around the lake.

Nearby Nordic skiing and cross-country trails operate during winter months.

Why Stay Near Lake Dillon in Frisco?

Unlike more remote mountain lakes, Lake Dillon offers walkable access to restaurants, breweries, shops, and lodging. Frisco’s central location also provides easy access to Breckenridge, Keystone, Dillon, Silverthorne, and Copper Mountain.

After a day on the water, return to:

• Boutique accommodations at Frisco Inn on Galena
• Gourmet breakfast
• On-site dining at Mt. Royal Cafe
• Small-batch coffee roasted on-site
• Relaxation at Mt. Royal Spa

Frisco offers both outdoor adventure and refined mountain comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Dillon

Is Lake Dillon natural or man-made?

• Lake Dillon (Dillon Reservoir) is a man-made alpine reservoir completed in 1963.

When is boating season on Lake Dillon?

• Boating season typically runs from Late June through late September, depending on water levels and weather.

Are Jet Skis allowed on Lake Dillon?

• No. Personal watercraft such as Jet Skis are not permitted, helping preserve the lake’s quieter atmosphere.

Can I fish from the shore?

• Yes. Both shoreline fishing and boat fishing are available, depending on conditions.

Is Lake Dillon accessible from downtown Frisco?

• Yes. Frisco Bay Marina is just minutes from Main Street Frisco.

Plan Your Lake Dillon Getaway

From summer sailing and paddleboarding to fall foliage and winter scenery, Lake Dillon remains one of Summit County’s most iconic destinations.

Book your stay at Frisco Inn on Galena and enjoy Colorado’s alpine lake lifestyle just minutes from your room.

Call 970-668-3224 to reserve your mountain escape.

Learn more about visiting Frisco in our Frisco Travel Guide

______________________________________________________________________

Local Insights from Frisco Inn on Galena

"This guide is maintained by the team at Frisco Inn on Galena, a boutique inn located in the heart of Frisco. As longtime members of the Summit County community, our staff shares local insights to help visitors experience the very best of Frisco and the surrounding Colorado Rockies.

These recommendations reflect the experience of the Frisco Inn on Galena team, including owner Bruce Knoepfel, a longtime Summit County resident, professional road cyclist and ski coach, and world traveler who has spent decades exploring the mountains and outdoor activities of Colorado."