About Vallecito Marina & Yacht Club
Vallecito Marina & Yacht Club is the only full-service marina on Vallecito Lake, a pristine mountain reservoir nestled in a secluded valley just 18 miles northeast of Durango. The marina operates from May through September and serves as the primary access point for boating, fishing, and paddling on one of southwest Colorado's most beautiful bodies of water. Their location on the southeast shore at County Road 501 offers easy launching and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Rental options include fishing boats, pontoon boats, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks — everything needed for a day on the water. The marina also provides boat slips, buoy moorings, fuel service, and a well-stocked general store with fishing tackle, snacks, and supplies. All trailered and motorized watercraft must pass through their mandatory Aquatic Nuisance Species inspection station before launching. A combo boat/recreation permit costs $12 per day.
Vallecito Marina stands out as the gateway to a quieter, less crowded lake experience compared to the busy Front Range reservoirs. The lake's clear mountain waters are excellent for trout and pike fishing, and the surrounding Weminuche Wilderness provides a dramatic alpine backdrop. For families and anglers looking to escape into nature without a long drive from Durango, Vallecito is the perfect day trip.
