Updated: March 25, 2024
Cool Places to Beat the Heat in Colorado Springs
While summertime in Colorado Springs calls for big adventures and time with friends and family in the great outdoors, soaring temps can put a damper on your fun in the sun. Here are our top places to stay cool and beat the heat in Colorado Springs & the Pikes Peak Region.
Stay cool and beat the heat in Colorado Springs & the Pikes Peak Region.
1. Lakes & Reservoirs
SUP and kayaks and fishing – oh my! We may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some time on the water. Our pristine alpine lakes and reservoirs make any adventure more refreshing, plus you can’t beat those views!
Top Bodies of Water to Explore
1. Quail Lake
2. Monument Lake
3. Rampart Reservoir
3. Crystal Creek Reservoir
4. Prospect Lake
5. Catamount Reservoir
Honorable mention: Lake Pueblo
2. Paradise Cove
This hidden gem is our very own not-so-secret swimming hole. Located just an hour outside of Colorado Springs, those in the know frequent the cove during summer months to cliff jump and soak in this natural swimming pool
3. Splash Parks
- Splish splash and let the kids go wild at John Venezia Park. "The Watering Hole:" is a spray ground that let’s little ones cool off while they also get their wiggles out.
- The Julie Penrose Fountain in America the Beautiful Park is not only a beautiful frame for Pikes Peak, but also is the perfect way to cool down while enjoying a summer picnic.
- Deerfield Hills Spray Ground includes 16 different water spray features containing over 50 individual spray nozzles and various features including Bell Trios, Foaming Geysers, Ground Geysers, Soak Stations, Water Jellys, Water Quests, Water Trios and a Water Wall.
*Know before you go! Check this site for hours and dates when these splash parks are open.
4. Rafting
Looking to kick it up a notch? Grab your paddles and climb aboard a raft on the Arkansas River. With trained and seasoned raft guides at the helm, have a white-knuckled adventure full of adrenaline and plenty of splashing to cool you down.
5. Paddleboarding
Rent a board and head to a lake or join an organized class! Dragonfly Paddle Yoga offers plenty of options from yoga classes to excursions and special events where you can cool off and have a good time.
6. Great Wolf Lodge
Grab your swimmers and take the kids to this indoor waterpark and themed hotel. Great Wolf Lodge offers both indoor water park fun and dry-land experiences for your entire family. Enjoy features like kid-friendly indoor activities, a range of dining options, interactive games and more all under one roof.
Tips for Summertime in COS
- Hydrate – here at 6,000 feet and above, water is your best friend. Be sure to drink plenty of water and then drink some more. You’ll thank us later.
- Wear your sunscreen – At this altitude, the air is rare, which means you need extra protection from those UV rays. Slather on your SPF frequently to stay safe and avoid painful sunburns.
- Dress the part – We know it sounds counter-intuitive to our summer heat theme, but layers will be your secret strategy for maximum comfort in the Pikes Peak Region. Bring light jackets, long sleeves and extra clothes in case the weather changes or you find yourself in higher elevations.
