Sandy and Michael Burke try out their new inflatable canoe on opening day at Lake Nighthorse on Friday. By noon, about 50 people had passed through the gate. Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area will open for nonmotorized recreation from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through May 9. Daily operations will begin May 14, and motorized recreation will begin May 15. For a full schedule, punch pass information and more, visit Durangogov.org.

Carol Nokes holds a rainbow trout she caught Friday at Lake Nighthorse on opening day. Nokes was 10th in line and the first to fish after the lake opened in the morning.

People were fishing, boating, paddleboarding and even swimming at Lake Nighthorse on opening day.

People were fishing, boating, paddleboarding and even swimming at Lake Nighthorse on opening day.

People were fishing, boating, paddleboarding and even swimming at Lake Nighthorse on opening day.