Laninga's Travel Blog

At 7,800 feet above sea level, Vallecito Lake is the largest body of water at or above this elevation in Colorado.  And, at only 18 miles from Durango, it is a popular vacation spot.  It boasts several lodges and RV parks, as well as camping and just day activities.  And even better for us, it is only 15 miles from our campground…

Although there is a road all the way around, part of it is private property so we did have to back track a bit.  But we found a nice hiking trail at the south end, near the dam.

Lake view

Mountains as a backdrop

Ducks (geese?) in a row

Taking the dog for a paddleboard ride

Lake and gravel road

The dam at the southern end

Lakeview from hiking trail

View looking north

Time for a picture thanks to another hiker

A hiker in profile