Navajo Lake, a pristine 15,600-acre reservoir, is a significant natural and recreational landmark spanning San Juan and Rio Arriba Counties in New Mexico, with a portion extending into La Plata County, Colorado. Formed by the Navajo Dam on the San Juan River, this expansive lake boasts an impressive 150 miles of intricate shoreline, characterized by numerous coves and dramatic sandstone cliffs. Plunging to a remarkable maximum depth of 300 feet, Navajo Lake is a vital component of the Colorado River Storage Project, serving multiple purposes including water storage and hydroelectric power generation.
As a premier outdoor destination in the Four Corners region, Navajo Lake offers exceptional opportunities for diverse recreational activities. It is renowned for its outstanding fishing, with healthy populations of Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, and various trout species, particularly known for its trophy-sized brown trout in the San Juan River below the dam. The lake's vast, clear waters are ideal for all forms of boating, waterskiing, sailing, and scuba diving, providing ample space for aquatic adventures. Navajo Lake State Park, encompassing much of its shoreline, provides extensive public access, numerous campgrounds, and marinas, cementing its status as a top-tier recreational haven and a key attraction in New Mexico and Colorado.
