Chalk Lake

Chalk Lake sits in a stunning alpine setting in Chaffee County, tucked along the base of Mount Antero and the Chalk Cliffs near the small community of Nathrop. Surrounded by towering peaks, dense forest, and the distinctive white chalk cliffs that give both the lake and the nearby creek their name, this small stocked lake is a favorite among anglers and day-trippers exploring the upper Arkansas River valley.

Fishing is the centerpiece of a visit to Chalk Lake. The lake is stocked with trout, and visitors consistently report good success, with most fish averaging around eight inches. Multiple streams feed into the lake, creating varied structure that makes the fishing interesting and gives you different spots to try throughout a visit. Bank fishing works well given the lake's compact size, and the loop trail around the shoreline puts every section of water within easy reach. Fly fishing the inlet streams adds another dimension for anglers who want to explore beyond the main lake.

A short loop trail circles the lake, providing an easy walk with panoramic mountain views in every direction. The trail is flat and family-friendly, making it a good choice for a quick leg-stretcher or a scenic stroll after fishing. The surrounding terrain includes several feeder streams worth exploring on foot, and the overall landscape is among the most photogenic in the Arkansas River corridor.

Facilities are straightforward: a parking lot with restrooms serves as the main access point. A ten-dollar day-use fee is required to park and use the area. Visitors consistently praise how clean and well-maintained the site is, and there is a genuine culture among regulars of keeping the area tidy.

Chalk Lake works as a standalone destination or as a stop on a bigger day exploring Chaffee County. The Chalk Cliffs and Mount Antero trailhead are minutes away, and the natural hot springs at Mount Princeton are a short drive down the valley. Whether you are fishing for stocked trout, walking the lake loop with your family, or just soaking in some of the best mountain scenery in central Colorado, Chalk Lake delivers a clean, quiet, and visually spectacular experience that punches well above its small footprint.