Lake San Cristobal

The peninsula and island on Lake San Cristobal may be small, but their recreational benefits and majestic beauty are mighty. Until a couple of years ago, however, the public was locked out due to private ownership.

Located south of Colorado’s Lake City, the most remote town in the Lower 48, San Cristobal is the second-largest natural lake in the state and draws visitors from across the country. Despite Hinsdale County’s remote location, it is experiencing unprecedented growth in tourism as visitors flock to the outdoors.

To preserve this resource and enhance accessibility for the public, Trust for Public Land purchased the 10.3-acre island and peninsula in 2020. The property is now Peninsula Park, owned and managed by Hinsdale County. On June 13, 2020, Governor Jared Polis formally opened the 10.3 acres with a ribbon-cutting event. By permanently protecting this property, visitors now have increased access to the lake, helping alleviate growing congestion on public lands.

The journey to preserving this land started with grassroots efforts by a local group known as Friends of Lake San Cristobal. They began raising funds to open the peninsula and island for public use, and TPL joined their cause, gathering local input on what the space should feature. Community members identified family-friendly play areas, an ADA-accessible pier, picnic areas, boat slips, nonmotorized paddle boarding, an amphitheater, restrooms, and hiking trails as priorities.

“At the heart of the most successful conservation projects is the community,” said Jim Petterson, Colorado and Southwest region director for TPL. “The Hinsdale County community, from year-round residents in Lake City to second homeowners from around the country, really stepped up to make this acquisition happen.”

This well-loved high-alpine lake offers year-round adventure, including boating, fishing, wildlife observation, ice-skating, and more. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the lake experienced record high usage. The lake was excellent for those seeking respite, but the increased traffic put a strain on the environment.

“We are proud to partner with Hinsdale County to create new, sustainable public access to this one-of-a-kind property on Lake San Cristobal, especially in light of the increased demand on public lands during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Petterson. “This new access point will ensure stand-up paddle boarders and other nonmotorized users have a safe and scenic place to enjoy this spectacular mountain lake.”

Hinsdale County Commissioner Katie Borchers was a fierce advocate dedicated to securing the peninsula and island for public use. TPL relied on locals like Borchers to create the best recreational area for the public. “Lake San Cristobal is the very heart of Lake City and a spectacular attraction for those traveling the Alpine Loop and visiting Hinsdale County,” Borchers shared. “It has been a pleasure to work with the team from TPL, Friends of Lake San Cristobal, the Ben Brownlee family, and all of our neighbors and friends. We did it!”