Navajo Lake is a beautiful and serene destination that sits nestled in the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest. Many people ask, ‘Where is Navajo Lake?’ and the answer depends on which Navajo Lake you’re referring to, as there are actually two notable bodies of water with that name in the United States. One is in southern Utah, surrounded by forested mountains and volcanic landscapes, while the other, much larger, spans the border between northwestern New Mexico and southwestern Colorado. Both lakes are rich in outdoor recreational opportunities and offer picturesque settings for a wide range of activities, from boating and fishing to hiking and wildlife watching.
Navajo Lake in Utah
Geographic Location
Navajo Lake in Utah is located in Dixie National Forest in Kane County, on the Markagunt Plateau. It is situated east of Cedar City and close to Brian Head, a popular ski and outdoor recreation area. This lake is a high-altitude body of water, resting at about 9,035 feet above sea level.
Coordinates
- Latitude: 37.5002° N
- Longitude: 112.7937° W
This version of Navajo Lake is a natural lake that was formed by a lava flow that blocked the drainage, resulting in the picturesque setting we see today. The lake is smaller than its namesake in New Mexico but is no less captivating.
Getting There
To reach Navajo Lake in Utah, travelers usually drive along Highway 14, which connects Cedar City to U.S. Route 89. The lake is accessible during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early fall, depending on snow conditions.
Activities at Utah’s Navajo Lake
- Fishing for brook, rainbow, and splake trout
- Canoeing and kayaking on calm waters
- Camping at developed and primitive campsites
- Hiking along the Navajo Lake Loop Trail
- Mountain biking and wildlife viewing
This alpine lake is popular for its peaceful atmosphere and natural surroundings. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to escape the heat and crowds of southern Utah’s national parks.
Navajo Lake in New Mexico and Colorado
Geographic Location
The larger and more widely known Navajo Lake is a reservoir that straddles the border between New Mexico and Colorado. The majority of the lake lies in San Juan County, New Mexico, but a portion extends into Archuleta County, Colorado. It was created by the Navajo Dam on the San Juan River, completed in the early 1960s.
Coordinates
- Latitude: 36.8316° N
- Longitude: 107.6153° W
Navajo Lake in New Mexico is part of Navajo Lake State Park, one of the largest state parks in the state. The lake spans over 15,000 acres and offers a wide variety of water-based and land-based recreational activities.
Getting There
The main access point to Navajo Lake State Park is near the town of Navajo Dam, New Mexico, about 40 miles east of Farmington. From Colorado, the lake can be accessed via roads from the town of Ignacio or via smaller roads that connect to the northern shoreline.
Features of the Reservoir
- Type: Man-made reservoir
- Primary Inflow: San Juan River
- Recreational Focus: Boating, houseboating, and fishing
This lake is an important water resource for the region and a major recreation spot, especially during the summer months. Its vast surface area allows for large boats and plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the outdoors.
Recreational Activities at Navajo Lake (NM/CO)
- Houseboating and sailing
- Jet skiing and wakeboarding
- Fishing for bass, trout, catfish, and kokanee salmon
- Camping with both developed sites and backcountry options
- Hiking trails with views of the lake and desert scenery
Because of its size and infrastructure, this Navajo Lake is often compared to lakes found in more populated states. It draws visitors from throughout the Southwest and offers enough space and amenities to accommodate both large gatherings and peaceful solo getaways.
Differences Between the Two Navajo Lakes
While they share a name, the two Navajo Lakes in Utah and New Mexico/Colorado have distinct characteristics and serve different purposes for travelers.
Key Comparisons
- Size: The New Mexico/Colorado Navajo Lake is significantly larger
- Location: Utah’s Navajo Lake is high-elevation and more remote
- Recreation: New Mexico’s lake supports motorized water sports, while Utah’s is ideal for quiet paddling and hiking
- Origin: Utah’s lake is natural; New Mexico’s is man-made
Choosing which Navajo Lake to visit depends on your travel goals. If you’re looking for a quiet mountain retreat with trails and trout fishing, the Utah lake is the place to go. If you prefer large lakes with boating, fishing tournaments, and state park amenities, the New Mexico and Colorado reservoir is your best bet.
Best Time to Visit
Utah’s Navajo Lake
- Best Season: Late May through September
- Weather: Cool and pleasant, even in midsummer
- Notes: Some roads may be snow-covered in spring
Navajo Lake in NM/CO
- Best Season: April through October
- Weather: Hotter and dryer climate, especially in summer
- Notes: Water levels may vary depending on snowpack and water management
Plan ahead and make reservations early, especially during peak months. Summer holidays can be particularly busy at the larger Navajo Lake due to its popularity for boating and family vacations.
Navajo Lake refers to two scenic and recreationally rich destinations in the western United States. One is located in Utah’s Dixie National Forest, offering serene alpine beauty, while the other lies on the New MexicoColorado border, providing expansive waters for boating and fishing. Each lake offers its own unique charm, natural setting, and outdoor experiences. Whether you seek peaceful paddling and mountain trails or thrilling water sports and big-lake camping, Navajo Lake delivers. Knowing where Navajo Lake is and which one best fits your travel needs is the first step to planning an unforgettable trip to one of these captivating places.