The Best Swimming Spots in Colorado: Lakes, Rivers, and More

Colorado features flat grass-covered plains, rolling hills, and steep peaks of the Rocky Mountains. It is also the seventh-driest state in the country. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of bodies of water to swim, ride in boats, fish, and more. Colorado has over 4,000 lakes and 107,000 miles of rivers within its borders. Needless to say, there are many recreational opportunities.

If you’ve ever been to Colorado, you probably know that its weather can fluctuate significantly throughout the day. This state has a high elevation and a continental interior. And because it’s far from any oceans, the climate is pretty dry. The state experiences cold winters with plenty of snow and hot, dry summers. The warm season aligns with Memorial Day in late May through Labor Day in early to mid-September, with average highs varying between 78 and 88 degrees. July and August are the hottest months of the year, meaning this is the best time to enjoy outdoor swimming. Discover the best swimming spots in Colorado, including swimming holes, lakes, rivers, beaches, and water parks. 

1. Colorado Has Great Swimming Holes

Colorado natives know that some of the best swimming spots are hidden in mountains and canyons. You may have to hike a little way to find them, but you’ll be met with waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and fantastic wildlife. Paradise Cove, also known as Guffey Gorge, is a popular swimming hole on Four Mile Creek. This is a popular and secluded swimming spot that requires a short, scenic hike to the crystal-clear pool surrounded by red cliffs. Just be sure you bring proper shoes and be prepared for rocky stairs. But the views and refreshing water are well worth the effort. You can also check out Snyder Falls and Devil’s Punchbowl. 

2. Colorado Has Lots of Swimming Lakes

With over 4,000 lakes, Colorado has much to choose from for water recreation. Lakes are the perfect place for a summer afternoon or a weekend getaway. You can bring your boat, pitch a tent, and swim until your heart’s content. Lakes at higher elevations, such as alpine lakes, will be quite a bit colder than those away from the mountains. 

The Cherry Creek Reservoir is a favorite swimming beach in Aurora, a suburb of Denver. There are peaceful walking trails around the lake and opportunities for boating and water sports. This lake can get crowded during the summer, but there is a reason it’s so popular. Cherry Creek Reservoir is only 30 minutes from Denver and has a sandy swimming beach with views of the mountains. It’s inside a 4,000-acre state park, where you can camp, hike, boat, fish, swim, and jet ski.  

3. Colorado Rivers Are For Swimming and Floating

Colorado has thousands of miles of rivers and streams running through the state, including some excellent lazy rivers perfect for a warm summer day. You can bring your tube and float by mountains, canyons, and prairies while hanging out with friends and family. Plus, many spots have rental areas where you can get all your floating supplies.

If you’re in Denver and can’t plan a long drive, check out South Platte River. Go to Confluence Park, where you will find a hub of swimming and tubing fun. However, if you have some time to drive up to the foothills, visit Boulder Creek in Boulder or Cache La Poudre in Fort Collins. They are local favorites for lazy tubing and swimming. But Boulder Creek has a few more rapids that might get your adrenaline pumping. You can pull off once you’ve had enough and head downtown to one of the local breweries. 

4. There are Even Colorado Beaches

While Colorado is nowhere near the ocean, this state still features some excellent lake beaches, complete with sandy shores and sandcastles. Check out Grand Lake for a lively public beach and refreshing water. Or visit Boulder Reservoir for sunbathing, roped-off swimming, and kayaking. And if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, head over to Medano Creek in late May to experience a brief beach from melting snow off of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

5. Colorado Water Parks Are Fun Spots to Cool Off

When the weather warms, Colorado turns into a lush paradise filled with fun adventures. And what’s one of the best ways to enjoy the summer? Visiting a water park! Here are our top picks for the best water parks in Colorado.

• Water World
• Pirates Cove Water Park
• Great Wolf Lodge
• Island Kingdom Water Park
• Oasis Family Aquatic Park
• Elitch Gardens
• The Great Outdoors Waterpark
• The Splash at Fossil Trace
• Bay Aquatic Park
• Bananas Fun Park

Summary of The Best Swimming Spots in Colorado: Lakes, Rivers, and More

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