COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE

LOMA, Colo. - Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds boaters Highline Lake, at Highline Lake State Park, will be closed to motorized boating for the 2024 boating season. To eradicate zebra mussels from Highline Lake, staff began lowering the lake in early February. Park staff will continue to lower the lake throughout 2024, with an anticipated complete emptying of the lake by the end of the year.

The lake will open to non-motorized hand launch vessels, such as paddle boards and kayaks, beginning March 1. The lake will remain open through Sept. 30 or until conditions prohibit use of the lake.

As the lake is drawn down there may be times where access to the water may be unsafe due to muddy conditions. During these times park staff may put in a temporary closure. 

“We understand this isn’t ideal for our boating and angling community,” said Alan Martinez, Highline Lake State Park Manager. “We are thankful for the continued patience and support of our visitors since we first discovered zebra mussels at Highline in 2022. Our hope is that people see this and understand how serious this problem is, and that it can be avoided by simply cleaning, draining, and drying your boat or any equipment that comes in contact with the water in between each and every use.”

Those recreating in Highline Lake with a non-motorized vessel are encouraged to clean, drain, and dry their vessel after every use. While inspections of these types of vessels are not mandatory, all vessels are subject to inspection by park staff.

“Eradicating invasive mussels is extremely difficult, which is why we focus so heavily on preventing their introduction,” said Robert Walters, Invasive Species Program Manager. “Preventing the spread of aquatic nuisance species starts with you. By taking the extra time to complete a few simple steps, you can help prevent zebra mussels from spreading to other bodies of water throughout Colorado.”  

Highline Lake typically opens to boating on March 1 and remains open until Sept. 30. This is the first time since 1967 Highline Lake has been closed to motorized boating. Park staff wants to remind visitors that Highline Lake has a lot more to offer, such as hiking and mountain biking, camping, and fishing at Mack Mesa.

Anglers are reminded that an emergency fishing closure was approved by CPW Director Jeff Davis, under the authority of Wildlife Commission Regulation #104 F.1, on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 23. This action only pertains to Highline Lake. All existing regulations on Mack Mesa, Mack Wash, and surrounding bodies of water remain in effect.  

Visitors are encouraged to call Highline Lake State Park’s visitor center for current conditions at (970) 858-7208.