Beat the summer heat this month at any one of these local spots. Several reservoirs, lakes, and alpine water sources can be just what the doctor ordered to combat Denver's high temperatures. Trade in your traditional crowded community pool for any one of these incredible swimming holes. It is important to visit the area's website to ensure the waters are open and accessible for all your fun activities. Each spot has its own set of rules and regulations for the area's lake, so review to make sure you have all your ducks in a row, and yes, that includes appropriate permitting and licensing for fishing and boating.
Aurora, CO
Top Activities: Archery, Boating, Fishing, Scuba, Swimming, Paddle Sports
Boat Rentals: YES (non-motorized)
Bear Creek Lake & Big Soda Lakes
Lakewood, CO
Top Activities: Archery, Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding
Boat Rentals: YES (non-motorized)
Boulder, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding
Boat Rentals: YES (non-motorized)
Loveland, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding
Boat Rentals: YES
Littleton, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski
Boat Rentals: YES
Aurora, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding, and Jet Skiing
Boat Rentals: NO
Dillon, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding
Boat Rentals: YES
Evergreen, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Paddle Sports
Boat Rentals: YES (non-motorized)
Grand Lake, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding
Boat Rentals: YES
Canyon City
Top Activities: Swimming
Boat Rentals: NO
Fort Collins, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Scuba, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding, and Jet Skiing
Boat Rentals: YES
Orchard, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding, and Jet Skiing
Boat Rentals: NO
Granby, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding, and Jet Skiing
Boat Rentals: YES
Loveland, CO
Top Activities: Fishing and Swimming - no public boating is allowed
Boat Rentals: NO
Grand Lake, CO
Top Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Paddle Sports, Waterski and Wakeboarding, and Jet Skiing
Boat Rentals: YES
Bailey, CO
Top Activities: Swimming and Paddle Sports
Boat Rentals: YES
If you want something more adventurous, check out our favorite spots to go tubing near Denver. With rising water levels, however, double-check that it's safe to venture out to the rapids. Before enjoying a cooling swim or water activity, lather on some sunscreen and bring lots of water to combat the brutal heat.
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