Some Faces of Boulder capture adventure. Others capture joy. Today’s photo captures something even more meaningful—peace.

Our featured paddler sits comfortably on her paddleboard, soaking in the beauty of Boulder Reservoir as the iconic Flatirons rise behind her. She’s not in a hurry to get anywhere. Instead, she’s simply enjoying the calm water, the fresh mountain air, and one of the most spectacular views in Colorado. It’s one of those timeless Boulder moments that reminds us to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate where we are.

Around Boulder, the reservoir is affectionately known as “the Rez,” and it has long been one of the community’s favorite summer destinations. What makes it so special isn’t just the water—it’s the experience. The combination of glassy mornings, fresh mountain air, and breathtaking scenery creates the perfect setting for paddleboarders of every skill level.

Unlike many Front Range lakes, Boulder Reservoir welcomes swimming and offers one of Colorado’s largest sandy beaches with lifeguards. Its 700-acre lake provides plenty of room for paddleboarders, kayakers, sailors, and families to spread out while enjoying spectacular views in every direction.

The scenery is simply unforgettable. Towering above the shoreline, the Flatirons create one of Colorado’s most recognizable skylines, while the Rocky Mountains stretch across the western horizon. Whether you’re paddling across the lake or simply relaxing on your board, every glance feels worthy of a photograph.

Originally built in 1954 on former dairy farmland, Boulder Reservoir continues to serve an important purpose today, supplying roughly 20 percent of Boulder’s drinking water while also welcoming thousands of visitors each year. Shortly after it filled, crews brought in 75 tons of sand to create its first swimming beach, helping establish a summertime tradition that continues generations later.

Beyond paddleboarding, the Rez offers something for everyone. Visitors enjoy fishing for bass, trout, and walleye, sailing across the open water, picnicking beneath shady trees, spotting osprey and great blue herons, or walking and running the scenic 5.3-mile trail that circles the reservoir.

If you’re planning your own visit, arrive early to experience the calmest water and easiest parking. Rental equipment is available on-site, and privately owned paddleboards require an annual watercraft permit. Don’t forget sunscreen, plenty of water, and maybe lunch by the lake after your adventure.

But today’s Faces of Boulder feature isn’t really about paddleboarding.

It’s about a person embracing everything that makes Boulder extraordinary. It’s about slowing down, taking in the scenery, appreciating the beauty around us, and discovering that sometimes happiness is as simple as sitting on a paddleboard with the Flatirons reflected in the water.

That’s the spirit of Boulder—and that’s the face we’re celebrating today.

AboutBoulder-admin