Colorado, a state renowned for its majestic mountains and scenic beauty, isn't immediately recognized as a state for water fun. However, being away from the ocean doesn't limit our opportunities to enjoy a refreshing dip in the water. With lakes and rivers set against the backdrop of the mountains, Colorado offers a unique and refreshing escape for those seeking to cool off and indulge in water-based activities. From serene lakes perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking to vibrant rivers teeming with whitewater rafting and fishing opportunities, there's something for everyone.
Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking for your next adrenaline rush or simply someone who wants to float peacefully under the summer sky, Colorado's waters are a beacon of summer fun and relaxation. Let's take a look at some of the best lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water to cool off in this summer!
6 Bodies of Water in Colorado to Visit This Summer:
Lake Granby
A group of us took a camping trip to Lake Granby last summer and had an awesome time. We rented paddleboards and kayaks and traveled across the lake to one of the islands. The way back to our starting point was slightly treacherous, with stormy conditions and aggressive waves. I also fell in the water twice. My boyfriend was excited to see a hawk nosedive into the water and catch a fish. With that being said, I'll definitely be visiting again. Lake Granby is perfect for boating, fishing, and camping. It's also surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests, making it ideal for scenic summer fun.
Boulder Creek
Boulder Creek is a popular spot for people to hang out. You can tube along the creek, use the rope swing, or simply chill on the rocks. It's a very social place and a great way to escape the heat. My first summer out here, a big group of us spent a long day hanging out in the creek, and we had a blast.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Located in Larimer County near Fort Collins, Horsetooth is a fantastic reservoir in Colorado with 6.5 miles of water. You can leisurely float around or even go boating! If you're a fisherman, you'll be pleased to know that the reservoir is also a place for you.
Paradise Cove/Guffey Gorge
One of the first places I visited after moving to Colorado nearly three years ago was Paradise Cove. I just found out while writing this that the actual name of it is Guffey Gorge. Weird. Anyway, this spot has some cliff jumping, a waterfall, and a lovely gorge to take a dip in. Head to Guffey, Colorado, to find this perfect summer spot. Just be sure to arrive early, as the limited parking fills up fast.
St. Mary's Glacier
You will undoubtedly cool off by dipping in the lake at St. Mary's, filled with ice-cold waters fed by glacial melt. Located in the Arapaho National Forest, this glacier-fed lake offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere perfect for cooling off and relaxing. In addition to swimming, visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking around the lake, and even skiing the glacier! At only about an hour from Denver, this is a fantastic and relatively easy place to visit and perfect for bringing visitors. While you can also cliff jump here, I would not recommend it based on personal experience. But whatever you do, always practice caution.
Arkansas River
If you're seeking thrills, go whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. This river is also notable for being awesome for fishing! The river, in its entirety, goes from the Rocky Mountains near Leadville, passing through Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas until it reaches the Mississippi River. It passes through canyons, rivers, and forests, offering beautiful and varied scenery.
Colorado's diverse array of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs offers an extensive playground for water enthusiasts of all types, and this list just scratches the surface. There are tons of other options, including Dillon Reservoir, Clear Creek, and Cherry Creek Reservoir, to name a few. Whether you prefer the thrill of water sports or dipping a toe in, these destinations promise memorable experiences. Beyond the water, the surrounding landscapes and communities add to the charm and appeal of each location, making Colorado a great place for anyone looking to make a splash this summer despite being landlocked!
What's your favorite way to cool off from the Colorado heat? Let us know!
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