04/03/2026
Boating season is officially (almost) here!
Selected boat ramps at Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake open this Wednesday, April 1 at 7 a.m.
Horsetooth Reservoir
• South Bay ramp: 7 a.m.–7 p.m., daily
• Inlet Bay ramp (Marina only): Opens April 15, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Satanka ramp: Closed April; opens May 22 (Fri–Sun through Labor Day)
Carter Lake
• South Shore ramp: 7 a.m.–7 p.m., daily
• North Pines ramp: 7 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat–Sun only (paving work in area)
• North Marina ramp: Closed April; opens May 1
Heads up: Ongoing paving in the area may temporarily affect access to South Bay and Inlet Bay at Horsetooth Reservoir and to North Pines at Carter Lake. Watch for signage, and keep in mind that ramps may also be closed due to weather, water level, or staffing. We appreciate your patience, it will be worth the wait!
ANS vessel inspections are required at both reservoirs. Your smoothest window is 9 a.m.–3 p.m., especially early in the season. Note that decontaminations are not available after dark.
As always, please follow all boating safety regulations, including wearing your life jacket. We want to see you back out there all season long.
More information: https://www.larimer.gov/spotlights/2026/03/30/boating-opens-april-1-horsetooth-reservoir-carter-lake
Full 2026 season boat ramp schedule: https://www.larimer.gov/naturalresources/parks/boating