Pearl Lake State Park


A glorious spot for camping and canoeing, this small alpine lake backs up to aspen and evergreen forests, and has some excellent lake-front campsites ($20) . Try to get a lower campsite bordering the lake; numbers 24 to 32 are best. They have two yurts ($80) here too, plus a short trail to Coulton Creek.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Hahns Peak

2.48 MILES

On the windswept plain at the base of a picturesque peak lies this quasi–ghost town, 27 miles north of Steamboat Springs via Elk River Rd (Routt County Rd…

2. Steamboat Lake State Park

3.61 MILES

If you like boating, fishing and bird-watching, this is an incredible place to stay. The campsites ($20 to $26) on the water are pretty good, but could be…

3. Mount Zirkel Wilderness

6.94 MILES

One of the five original wilderness areas in Colorado, Mount Zirkel Wilderness is an untamed, roadless expanse dotted with icy glacial lakes and granite…

4. Bud Werner Memorial Library

20.58 MILES

A perfect indoor break for families, this library has awesome interactive games in the kids' area, a sweet fish tank, free wi-fi and story time. Oh yeah,…

5. Tread of Pioneers Museum

20.72 MILES

A favorite among the area’s community history museums, these restored Victorian homes host an even-handed display about the history of the Native…

6. Fish Creek Falls

21.58 MILES

Just 5 miles out of town, Fish Creek Falls is a wonderful hike for families. The 0.8-mile loop takes you to a scenic overlook with views across to the…