Beaver Lake State Wildlife Area

About

Beaver Lake State Wildlife Area sits on the east side of Marble, Colorado, at an elevation of roughly 7,956 feet. The site centers on a 20-acre reservoir formed by damming the Crystal River, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the historic town. The area is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife primarily for wildlife habitat, meaning visitors must have a valid hunting or fishing license or purchase a specific SWA pass if they are 16 or older. Hiking is permitted, with trails connecting to the White River National Forest and providing access to the defunct Marble Ski Area. The Yule Creek and Crystal River Trail follows the river to Yule Creek, offering views of the Raggeds Wilderness. Parking is available on Marble Quarry Road at a dirt pullout. While camping is permitted within the SWA boundaries, day-use visitors should note that public restrooms are available on-site, but there are no picnic tables or trash facilities, requiring visitors to pack out their waste. The area supports diverse wildlife, including trout in the lake and river, and various bird species like eagles and geese. Hunting occurs in the area, so hikers should wear visible clothing during hunting season. The moderate difficulty and typical two-hour duration for lake-adjacent trails make it a manageable fall destination, accessible from September through November.