Colorado may not have the 10,000 lakes of Minnesota or the coasts of California and Florida. But there are still plenty of ways to play in the water. That’s especially good news in a hot, dry summer like this one. Here are 10 water activities in Colorado Springs and beyond where you can beat the summer heat. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.
1. Go for a Swim
Need a local swimming pool to take a plunge? You can find them here in our list of local pools.
2. SUP on a Local Lake
Quail Lake, Prospect Lake, Monument Lake and Palmer Lake all provide easy access for standup paddleboarding. Get some tips in our Guide to Stand-Up Paddleboarding. You can even try yoga on an SUP — and learn from our mistakes.
3. Play in a Splash Park
Sometimes the kids just need a place to splash around and get wet. Here you go: Favorite Splash Parks and Swimming Pools in Colorado Springs. They’re all up and flowing for the summer.
4. Kayak on a Lake
There are some great lakes around the Pikes Peak region, and larger ones like Catamount Reservoir and Rampart Range Reservoir are perfect for kayaking. Don’t have a boat? You can rent a kayak at Pikes Peak Outfitters.
5. Go Whitewater Rafting
Colorado’s rivers are running low this summer after last winter’s low snowpack. But there’s still fun whitewater rafting to be had. The Arkansas is running mellow for family fun. If you want faster, higher flows, head to the Western Slope for a trip on the Colorado River. Get more info in our Guide to White Water Rafting.
6. Hike to a High Alpine Lake
The higher you go, the cooler it gets. And Colorado’s Rockies are dotted with high mountain lakes to explore. Most require a fairly steep, often long hike to reach, but a quick dip in their frigid waters is worth it, not to mention the spectacular scenery. Just be careful to respect the fragile environment, especially if muddy, low-water conditions are obvious. Some of our high alpine favorites are Hartenstein Lake near Buena Vista and Mohawk Lakes outside of Breckenridge.
7. Take a Waterfall Hike
Sure, summer hiking can be hot. But nothing beats dunking your head in a waterfall. Enjoy these 7 Beautiful Waterfalls in Colorado Springs.
8. Surf a River Wave
Yes, there’s surfing in Colorado — river surfing. Wave parks have been growing in mountain towns, and there are several options within a couple hours-drive of the Springs in Pueblo, Buena Vista and Salida. Salida’s wave is considered one of the best in the state. Get info, lessons and boards at CKS River Supply in Buena Vista or Badfish Surf Shop in Salida.
9. Rent a Boat
Head up to the Frisco Marina and rent a powerboat or pontoon boat to spend a day on the water surrounded by big mountain scenery. If you prefer to paddle, you can rent a kayak or SUP instead. You can’t swim in Lake Dillon, but expect cool, breezy conditions on the water.
10. Hit the Water Park
Spend a day in the wave pool and waterslides at the Great Wolf Lodge. Do a day pass or make it an overnight, and you can even rent a private cabana for full service. Also watch for the opening of Surf Shack coming soon, which will add an indoor Flowrider surf wave and beach vibes to the Northgate entertainment scene.
