Echo Lake Lodge & Park

Echo Lake Lodge amongst a pine forest on a sunny day

Echo Lake Lodge, a beloved landmark in its 100th year, is the focus of a comprehensive planning and restoration effort led by Denver Parks & Recreation (DPR). The goal is to protect the historic structure, enhance the surrounding park, and ensure that Echo Lake continues to serve visitors for the next century.

The planning team conducted a full historic facility and site assessment, along with a space study and analysis of existing conditions. This effort helped determine the best use of the building and park to support visitation to Mount Blue Sky while furthering DPR's mission and the goals of the Outdoor Adventure and Alternative Sports Plan, the Denver Mountain Parks Master Plan, and the department-wide Game Plan for a Healthy City.

Planned Improvements & Next Steps:

In summer 2026, DPR and the Vibrant Denver Bond team will begin the process of selecting design consultants through a qualification‑based city procurement process. The design phase is expected to take approximately twelve months. Planned enhancements focus on both the historic lodge and surrounding park.

For the Lodge:

Rehabilitation of the building’s historic exterior and structure
Upgrades to mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and building systems
Interior renovations to support overnight programmatic lodging, gathering spaces, interpretive exhibits, mission‑based concession areas, and accessibility
A catering kitchen and public restrooms

For the Park and Visitor Experience:

A redesigned arrival experience with improved vehicular and pedestrian circulation
Upgraded visitor‑use areas, including new outdoor gathering spaces
Enhancements to picnic areas, trailheads, trails, water‑access points, and parking
A comprehensive year‑round trail and access network for visitors of all ages and abilities
Incorporation of the historic Echo Lake concession stand and shelter into the design
A mix of seasonal amenities, from stand‑up paddleboarding and kayaking in summer to ice‑related activities in winter

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is DPR planning improvements at Echo Lake?

Echo Lake Lodge and the surrounding park are central to DPR’s mountain parks system. The building requires accessibility and systems upgrades, and the park has opportunities for improved access, recreation, and year‑round use. This planning effort evaluates both preservation needs and the future programming potential of the lodge and surrounding areas.

How does this fit into other Mountain Park projects?

This project complements several recent DPR investments across the mountain parks system, including the renovation of the Red Rocks CCC Camp, improvements at Genesee Park, and upgraded docks at Evergreen Lake in Dedisse Park. Together, these efforts aim to make the mountain parks more accessible, welcoming, and activity‑rich for residents and visitors.

How is the project funded?

In 2025, Denver residents overwhelmingly approved Ballot Issue 2B as part of the “Vibrant Denver” bond package, allocating $7 million specifically to Echo Lake Lodge. Along with additional capital funding from Denver Parks and Recreation and the Denver Mountain Parks Foundation, this funding will support renovations to the lodge, enhancements to surrounding visitor areas, and new public interface spaces that create a welcoming sense of arrival.

Will the Lodge remain closed during work?

Yes, the lodge will remain closed to the public during design and construction and will reopen upon project completion.

What is DPR's long-term vision for the lodge and park?

Echo Lake Lodge will serve a hub of visitor services for those visiting Echo Lake Park and Mount Blue Sky. The lodge will function as the central hub for DPR’s Outdoor Recreation Programming and as a key gateway to the park. The surrounding picnic areas and lake amenities will support year‑round recreation, small gatherings, and expanded outdoor adventure opportunities. DPR’s goal is to ensure that the lodge and park remain accessible, sustainable, and vibrant well into their second century.