The Best Swimming Holes Near Denver

Are you planning a visit to the beautiful city of Denver? Or perhaps you live in the area. Once temperatures soar, you’ll want to check out one of these refreshing spots to beat the heat! Let’s learn about the best swimming holes near Denver!

Paradise Cove Swimming Hole in Guffey Gorge

Guffey Gorge, also known as Paradise Cove, is one of Colorado‘s most well-known swimming holes and cliff diving locations. It’s a must-see destination that can help just about anyone escape the summer heat.  

The stunning canyon of West Fourmile Creek is just a short, easy 0.5-mile walk from the swimming hole’s parking lot. Because the trail’s start and finish are steep, consider carrying all you’ll need for the day in a backpack.

You’ll understand why this place is so cherished as soon as you arrive at the Paradise Cove Swimming Hole. This Creek produces two different horsetail plunges upstream that total about 20 feet, and are bordered by 100-foot rugged cliffs. 

Ponderosa pines offer shade for a nearby picnic. Think about visiting this fantastic spot on a weekday to escape the weekend crowds.

North Fork of the South Platte River

The South Platte River’s North Fork features excellent floating conditions, swimming holes, and a bit of Colorado’s best fly fishing. A number of specific visitor parking spaces lie along the river off Highway 96 close to Foxton. 

As the river occasionally flows past private property, make sure to get in and out on public land. The ruins of the South Platte Hotel, built in the 1890s, can be seen at the junction of the rivers. 

In the early 1900s, Steven Decker erected a corner shop and tavern, turning the area into a well-liked vacation spot. However, it could only be reached by train. When enjoying hours beside the river, be sure to adhere to the Leave No Trace philosophy. Additionally, there are no overnight activities allowed in this region.

Eldorado Springs Pool

The name Eldorado Springs comes from the artesian aquifer water that is pumped to the surface from an underground reservoir. This pure water nestles into the mouth of the Eldorado Canyon. It has been used by locals for drinking and enjoyment for more than a century. 

Eldorado Springs Resort circulates the spring’s crystal-clear mineral water constantly by pumping it through a sizable pool. Despite not being a hot spring, the water is about 79 degrees, making it the ideal temperature for cooling off.

There are chairs, tables, shade shelters, a diving board, and a water slide near the pool as attractions. On South Boulder Creek’s shady banks, there is also a picnic area. You can either pack your own lunch or buy snacks at the resort’s (cash only) food stand. 

The pool continues to draw a wide variety of people. Locals from Boulder and Denver, as well as visitors from around the world are likely to be encountered. This swimming hole is welcoming to children of all ages.

Eben G. Fine Park

A visit to Boulder should not be skipped when in the Centennial State. Eben G. Fine Park is only a short distance from Boulder Canyon’s entrance, right before the famed Pearl Street. It offers a cool retreat during the sweltering summer months and a picturesque stroll during the crisp fall months.

The Red Rocks, Settler’s Park, and Mount Sanita’s areas are all readily accessible from the park via a small bridge. Finding parking in the areas close to Pearl Street or Arapahoe Avenue is advised due to the limited parking. 

At the park, a much-liked whitewater play area created for kayakers welcomes tubers as well. In the summer, there might be a ton of traffic in this area. As always, it is strongly advised that you exercise caution. Bring safety flotation equipment and abstain when the spring flows are too high to explore safely.

Honorable Mention: Confluence Park

The appropriately titled Confluence Park is without a doubt Denver’s most beloved outdoor environment. It is situated where Cherry Creek and the South Platte River meet. Despite being relatively small compared to other urban parks, Confluence Park is very popular. Relax by the river, swim in Cherry Creek, run in the sand, paddle, or sip coffee on REI’s patio. 

This place is a must-see when visiting Denver! Don’t forget a floatation device to make your trip one to remember! 

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