A Daytrip to Arboles: Exploring Navajo State Park

Looking to add a splash of adventure to your stay when staying at our Pagosa Springs Hotel? Just a scenic 42-minute drive south of Pagosa Springs, Navajo State Park in Arboles, Colorado, offers the perfect day trip destination. Often called “Colorado’s Lake Powell,” this breathtaking reservoir park offers a unique blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty that makes it one of the most diverse and rewarding places to explore in the Four Corners region. 

An Overview of Navajo State Park 

Located at 1526 County Rd 982 in Arboles, Navajo State Park covers 5,088 acres of land and borders the massive 15,000-acre Navajo Reservoir. The reservoir stretches over 35 miles, two-thirds of which extend into New Mexico, making it a haven for boaters, anglers, and wildlife watchers year-round. 

The park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Entrance fees are $10 per vehicle or $4 per individual, and the Visitor Center (open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily March–November, weekdays in winter) is a great first stop. Inside, you’ll find a topographical map of the lake, historical artifacts from the Ancestral Puebloans, and displays about the Denver and Rio Grande Narrow Gauge Railroad. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for books, nature-inspired puppets, and park-branded gear. 

The History of Navajo Reservoir 

While today’s visitors come for the endless boating, fishing, and sunshine, Navajo State Park also holds a fascinating, lesser-known history beneath its sparkling waters. 

The region was originally inhabited by the Ancient Puebloans until a severe drought around 1050 CE forced their departure. By the fourteenth century, both the Ute and Navajo tribes had established themselves in the area, drawn by its natural resources and strategic location. Evidence of this deep cultural heritage still resonates today at nearby archaeological sites like Chimney Rock and Mesa Verde. 

In the early 1880s, the Dominguez-Escalante Expedition, comprised of 10 explorers, passed through the region while attempting to chart a route from New Mexico to California for the Spanish crown. Around the same time, the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad extended tracks through the area, transforming it into an important economic corridor until the rail line ceased operations in 1967. 

The most significant transformation came in 1962 with the construction of the Navajo Dam. Built to provide irrigation water for the Navajo Indian Reservation, the dam created the vast Navajo Reservoir we see today. Its creation permanently altered the landscape, submerging entire towns, including the old community of Arboles and nearby Rosa. When water levels drop, you can sometimes glimpse remnants of these lost settlements: crumbling foundations, railroad beds, and other echoes of the past lying just beneath the surface. 

Powerboating & Watersports 

Navajo Reservoir is built for boat lovers. From calm coves to open water, there’s room for every type of vessel. Powerboats can roam freely, water skiers, wakeboarders, and tubers enjoy smooth midday conditions, and sailboats take advantage of the breezy afternoon winds. It’s also a favorite for jet skiing and freshwater surfing behind specialized boats, with plenty of wide-open space and minimal weekday crowds. Launch from one of the boat ramps or the marina and enjoy miles of sun-drenched shoreline. 

Fishing the Reservoir 

Fishing at Navajo is excellent year-round. Cast from a boat or the shore for northern pike, smallmouth bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, and kokanee salmon. Trout and salmon tend to linger in deeper waters, while bass and panfish prefer the warmer, shallower edges. Fly fishing is popular on the Piedra and San Juan Rivers, which flow into the reservoir and offer peaceful spots with scenic backdrops. For shore anglers, check out the accessible fishing platforms near the Piedra River day-use area. 

Tip: If you plan to fish or boat into the New Mexico side of the reservoir, make sure you follow local regulations and purchase a New Mexico fishing license. 

Paddle the Quiet Coves 

For a slower-paced experience, grab a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore Navajo’s quiet coves and inlets. The calm waters near the shore are perfect for paddling, with minimal boat traffic and scenic views around every bend. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and explore areas larger boats can’t reach. While swimming is allowed in most areas of the lake during daylight hours, there are no lifeguards on duty. Many visitors prefer to stay above the surface, enjoying the safety and serenity of their paddle craft. 

Explore the Trails  

Navajo State Park features nine miles of hiking and biking trails. These range from gentle riverside strolls to more rugged terrain that rewards hikers with views of the lake and the surrounding San Juan Mountains. Trail maps are available at the Visitor Center. After your trek, take advantage of the two group picnic areas with shaded tables and restrooms for a laid-back lakeside lunch. 

Wildlife Watching 

Bring your binoculars. Navajo State Park is home to deer, foxes, rabbits, and impressive bird species like the Great-tailed Grackle, Red-tailed Hawk, and the Great Blue Heron.

Sunrise and dusk are great times to spot wildlife along the shoreline or near the riverbanks. 

Two Rivers Marina: Your Gateway to Lake Fun 

1526 County Rd 982 in Arboles 

Two Rivers Marina is the perfect place to start your day on the water. The marina offers a full range of rentals, including stand-up paddle boards, pontoon boats, fishing boats, and ski boats. Whether you're chasing trout or just floating with friends, they’ve got you covered. Need supplies? You’ll find fuel, ice, fishing tackle and accessories, cold drinks, and clean restrooms, all in one convenient spot.  

Getting to Navajo State Park from Pagosa Springs 

The drive from RiverWalk Inn to Navajo State Park takes about 42 minutes and is a scenic trip through the heart of southern Colorado. From downtown Pagosa Springs, head west on US Highway 160 for roughly 17 miles. Then, turn left onto Colorado Highway 151 and continue south for about 18 miles until you reach Arboles. Just before you get into town, turn left onto County Road 982. Follow it for two more miles, and you’ll arrive at the park entrance, ready for a day of lakeside adventure. 

Plan Your Visit 

Navajo State Park is just one of Colorado’s 41 amazing state parks, and it truly offers something for everyone, from serene picnics and historical discovery to full-throttle aquatic fun.  

Book your stay at RiverWalk Inn and make Navajo State Park part of your Pagosa Springs adventure. With scenic drives, shimmering waters, and the perfect home base waiting back in town, your Colorado getaway starts here.