Fuller Lake - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting
About Fuller Lake
Fuller Lake is a man-made body of water created in the early 1900s by damming the Fuller River. The lake is used for irrigation and recreation, and is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. The Fuller River flows into the lake from the north, and out of the south end of the lake. The lake is located in a canyon, and has steep cliffs on its north and south sides. There are several campgrounds and picnic areas along the shores of the lake, as well as a boat launch.Things to Do at Fuller Lake
There's no shortage of things to do at Fuller Lake in San Juan County, Colorado. For starters, the lake is a popular spot for fishing, and anglers can expect to find a variety of trout, bass, and perch. The nearby wilderness areas are also perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In the winter, the lake is a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And of course, no visit to Fuller Lake would be complete without spending some time simply relaxing by the water's edge and enjoying the spectacular natural scenery. Whether you're looking for an active vacation or a chance to get away from it all, Fuller Lake has something to offer everyone.
Top Activities Near Fuller Lake
History of Fuller Lake
The lake is situated at an elevation of 9,960 feet (3,040 m) and has a surface area of approximately 1.5 acres (0.61 ha). The lake is fed by several small streams and is surrounded by marshy vegetation. Fuller Lake is named for George Fuller, who was the first settlers in the area. George and his wife, Martha, arrived in the San Juan Mountains in 1873 and established a homestead near the present-day location of the lake. The Fullers were the only settlers in the area for several years and built a cabin near the lake which served as their home. In 1879, a group of prospectors discovered gold in the area and soon after, more settlers began to arrive in search of fortune. The population of the area grew rapidly and by 1882, there were over 200 miners living in the vicinity of Fuller Lake. However, the gold rush was short-lived and many of the settlers left the area within a few years. Today, Fuller Lake is a popular recreation spot for camping, fishing, and hiking. The lake is also a popular destination for birdwatchers as it is home to a variety of waterfowl including pelicans, ducks, and herons.
Best Time to Visit Fuller Lake
The best time to visit is definitely during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for hiking, fishing, and camping. Plus, the longer days mean that you'll have plenty of time to explore all that this beautiful region has to offer.
Tips for Visiting Fuller Lake
- Check the weather forecast before you go - the conditions can change quickly at high altitudes, and you want to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
- Pack some snacks - you'll likely work up an appetite while hiking around the lake.
- Be bear aware - there are bears in the area, so take precautions to avoid encounters (e.g., making noise while hiking, storing food properly).
- Take your time - the altitude can take some getting used to, so don't overdo it on your first day.
- Enjoy the silence - one of the best things about Fuller Lake is its remote location; savor the peace and quiet.
Interesting Facts and Trivias About Fuller Lake
- Fuller Lake is the highest natural lake in San Juan County, Colorado. The lake is located in the San Juan National Forest at an elevation of 11,716 feet (3,576 meters).
- Fuller Lake covers an area of 0.5 acres (0.2 hectares) and has a maximum depth of 20 feet (6 meters). The lake is named for George Fuller, who was the first white man to settle in San Juan County.
- The trail around Fuller Lake is 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) long and relatively easy to hike.
- There are 10 campsites located near the lake, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- The lake is located near several major ski resorts, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
- Fuller Lake is one of the few lakes in Colorado that does not allow motorized boats.
How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Fuller Lake
If you're planning on exploring Fuller Lake, San Juan County, Colorado, you'll need at least four hours. The lake is over two miles long and a half-mile wide, so there's plenty of ground to cover.
How to Reach Fuller Lake
To reach Fuller Lake in San Juan County, Colorado, turn west off US Highway 550 onto County Road 8. After about 1.5 miles, you'll see a sign for the lake on your left. Park in the small lot and follow the short trail through the woods to the lake shore.
Entrance Fee of Fuller Lake
No, there is no entrance fee to explore Fuller Lake. The lake is located on public land, so everyone is welcome to enjoy it.
Opening Hours of Fuller Lake
The opening hours of Fuller Lake, San Juan County, Colorado are 8:00 AM. to sunset.