Highline Lake and Mack Mesa Lake: A Loma Trip Guide
Highline Lake State Park sits north of Loma, a short drive west of Grand Junction. CPW calls it an oasis in the desert, with two lakes, grass, trees, and trails. It is one of the easiest places in the valley for a family fishing day, but its calendar catches people off guard. Here is what to know before you go.
Two lakes, two sets of rules
Highline Lake is the big one. CPW lists it at about 160 surface acres and says it is open to power boating, jet skiing, water skiing, sailboarding, and paddleboarding from March 1 through September 30, weather permitting. CPW also says the lake is closed every year from October 1 through February 28 to give migratory birds a place to rest.
Mack Mesa Lake is the smaller lake. CPW says it is limited to hand-launched craft like paddleboards, kayaks, and small fishing boats with electric motors only, and electric motors must be inspected for aquatic nuisance species before launching and after pulling out. There is an accessible fishing pier at Mack Mesa.
So in fall and winter, Mack Mesa is your Highline plan. Call the visitor center if you are not sure what is open.
What you can fish for
CPW lists largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and rainbow trout at the park, and says both lakes are typically stocked in spring and fall. Check the CPW stocking report for recent activity.
Getting there and passes
CPW's directions: take the Loma exit (Exit 15) off I-70 and head north on Highway 139, then follow the park signs. The visitor center is on the east side near the 11 8/10 Road entrance. CPW notes the west entrance moved in 2024, so follow the orange signs. A park pass is required, and CPW lists current prices on the park page.
Safety
- Life jackets: CPW says life jackets are required for each person on board and children 12 and younger must wear one at all times on the water. The visitor center runs a free life jacket loaner program. All you need is ID.
- Cold water in shoulder season: even a warm-water lake gets cold in spring and fall. CPW calls water under 68 degrees dangerous.
- Wind: afternoon wind can stack up whitecaps fast on open water. Small craft should stay close to shore and head in early.
- Heat: shade is limited on parts of the shoreline. Bring water and a hat.
- Construction: CPW has posted notices about construction on the west side of the park. Check for detours before you drive.
Verify regs
CPW lists both Highline Lake and Mack Mesa Lake as "infested" for zebra mussels, so expect a boat inspection on the way out, and clean, drain, and dry everything. To boat on Highline Lake, CPW says you need an ANS stamp, current registration, and a pre-launch inspection. Read CPW Boat Inspections, the Highline park highlights page, and the current CPW Fishing Brochure for fishing rules. We do not print limits.
Shop related
A cold drink and a hat go a long way at Highline. Our VCO Tumbler and trucker hat are in our merch shop.
Plan with Trip Builder
Pick Highline or Mack Mesa in Trip Builder. Our Mack Mesa notes, Highline day trip notes, and family shore day plan help with the details.
Frequently asked questions
Is Highline Lake open in the winter?
CPW says Highline Lake is closed each year from October 1 through February 28 as a resting area for migratory birds. Mack Mesa Lake is the usual off-season option. Check the park page before you go.
What boats are allowed on Mack Mesa Lake?
CPW says Mack Mesa Lake is limited to hand-launched craft like paddleboards, kayaks, and small boats with electric motors only, and electric motors must be inspected for aquatic nuisance species.
Can I borrow a life jacket at Highline Lake?
Yes. CPW says the Highline Lake visitor center has a free life jacket loaner program. You need identification.