Though in the shadow of larger towns Burlington and Wray, small-town Idalia remains attractive for travelers to the area. Located in northeast Colorado, one of the town's most popular recreation destinations is Bonny Lake State Park. This gem features year-round recreational opportunities. The 1,900-acre lake offers a place for cooling off during the warmer summer months, and the park's surrounding prairie lands are open for hunting, hiking and camping-of course, not at the same time. In addition, the extensive cattail marshes supply prime areas for birding. The river-fed reservoir also supports a healthy warm-water stock of walleye, northern pike and bass. Sandy beaches offer relaxing picnic and sunbathing areas, while the flatland reservoir's dependable winds make it a popular destination for sailors and windsurfers. In the winter the lake remains open for ice fishing.
After a dip in the lake, visitors can head to Idalia's crossroads for refreshments at the local cafe or a cocktail at the community bar. For those with an interest in history, Burlington's Old Town, just south of Idalia on U.S. 385, is the county's well-restored historical center. Here visitors can step into the past on a tour of 21 authentic buildings that capture the essence of frontier life.