Marston Lake is a Denver Water reservoir on the southwest edge of Denver, bordering the affluent neighborhood of Bow Mar in Denver County. Unlike most lakes featured on Colorado recreation sites, Marston Lake is fully fenced and closed to public access because it serves as part of Denver's drinking water supply. There are no trails along the shoreline, no boat ramps, and no fishing piers. The entire perimeter is secured with chain-link and barbed wire fencing, and trespassing is prohibited.
Despite the access restrictions, Marston Lake holds real appeal for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The undisturbed shoreline and protected water attract species that avoid busier urban lakes, and birders with spotting scopes regularly set up along Bow Mar Drive and nearby roads to scan for uncommon waterfowl, raptors, and shorebirds. Bald eagles have been spotted perching in lakeside trees, and the reservoir draws migratory species that make it a worthwhile stop during spring and fall birding seasons.
The surrounding neighborhood offers some of the most scenic lake-and-mountain views in the Denver metro area. Bow Mar Drive runs along the south and west edges of the reservoir, and residents and passersby enjoy sweeping sightlines across the water toward the Front Range. Sunrise and sunset here are particularly striking, with the mountains framing the western horizon behind the calm reservoir surface. Several townhomes and single-family homes along the perimeter have direct views of the water.
For those hoping to walk or jog near the lake, Bear Creek Trail and Quincy Avenue Trail are both accessible within a short drive and provide paved paths through greenbelts and open space. Bear Creek Lake Park, located just a few miles southwest, offers fishing, paddling, swimming, and camping for visitors who want a full lakeside recreation experience close to Marston Lake's scenic views.
Marston Lake is best appreciated as a visual landmark and birding destination rather than a hands-on recreation spot. If you are driving through southwest Denver or the Bow Mar area, it is worth slowing down to take in the mountain backdrop across the water. Just know that the fences are real, access is not permitted, and Denver Water enforces the restrictions.