The heat is on this Summer and what better way to cool down than to enjoy a dip in one of our many Colorado swimming holes! That crisp, clean, and refreshing Colorado water is a perfect way to chill out when the temperatures are rising. We've dipped our toes in the water and reviewed some of our favorite spots around Denver. Do you have any favorites that we missed?
Boulder Creek - Head over to Ebin G Fine Park in Boulder for a dip in the cool waters of the Boulder Creek that snakes its way through town. Bring a picnic to enjoy the riverside while you dip your feet in the chilly river. Watch tubers come floating by and fly fishermen reel in trout. It's a little piece of bliss on the river.
Paradise Cove - This one is a little drive, about an hour from Colorado Springs, but it's absolutely spectacular. Head outside of the little town of Florrisant and you'll discover this little gem of a watering hole. It's surrounded by tall cliffs which are perfect for jumping off of and into the deep water. It's only about a half-mile hike down the Guffey Gorge Trail so you can bring in a picnic and make an afternoon of it. It gets a bit busy in the Summertime but on a warm day in September, you'll likely have it to yourself.
Big Soda Lake - Head on over to Bear Creek Lake Park for a little oasis on the edge of Lakewood. It's got a true sandy beach, volleyball courts, a concession stand, and you can rent canoes, kayaks, sailboats, and paddleboards. There is a little something for everyone right by the city!
Chatfield Reservoir - Though the name doesn't imply it, the Gravel Pond at Chatfield State Park is a true gem for outdoor swimming. After a dip in the refreshing water, grab a spot under a cool shade tree, bring a cooler of beers, and relax with some spectacular views. You can also rent dog-friendly paddleboards so you can bring your furry friend for a ride across the lake.
Horsetooth Reservoir - The Poudre River feeds into the stunningly beautiful Horsetooth Reservoir outside of Ft Collins. This 6.5-mile long reservoir is perfect for taking a dip in while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. You can also partake in stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, skiing, fishing, boating, and any other water sport you can think of. Make sure to check out Party cove, also known as Satanka Bay. It's just a short hike from the road and is a popular spot for Colorado State University students to enjoy the cliffs and cool lake water.
North Fork of the South Platte River - Once you're on Highway 96 near Foxton you'll find several pull-offs and designated parking spots to recreate on the river. Go for a swim, tube down the river, or cast a line. You'll find some of the state's best fly fishing just 30 minutes out of Denver. Make your way a little further down the river and you'll find what remains of the historic South Platte Hotel originally constructed in the 1890s.
We'd love to hear about your favorite Colorado swimming holes, share in the comments below!
Posted by Ryan Penn on
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