Summer Activities
There is a long list of summer activities in Colorado. Many now-local Coloradans will tell you that “they came for the winter but stayed for the summer.” In other words, if you think winter in Colorado is super fun, you can’t get enough of it. Well, wait until you discover all the summer in Colorado activities. If finding kids’ activities is a big part of your travel planning, here’s a robust list of things to do with kids in Colorado. Check the events calendar to find a concert or other exciting events to attend between activities.
Your Passions Are Here
Colorado is definitely more than snowy mountains, long ski runs, powder snow, and dream-come-true terrain parks, but that works for many. Actually, Colorado is a fantastic place year-round. Here are some interesting Colorado summer activities and attractions:
- Colorado has more than 4,000 lakes – Some of these lakes are rather large reservoirs, while others are entirely natural. Most lakes allow paddle sports, sailing, and fishing. While others include power craft, water skiing, and jet skiing. Learn more about popular lakes in Colorado.
- Colorado has 42 state parks, most of which feature a lake or large area of land—combining water sports, land recreation, and camping. Many state parks have marinas, swim beaches, access to hiking and horseback riding trails, and more. Each park is unique so check out our Colorado State Parks Guide to find a location and amenities to match your needs.
- Gold medal fishing – Home to 322 miles of it.
- Hiking – One of the most popular summer activities, Colorado has over 39,000 miles of trails to explore; travelers come from around the world to hike the centennial state’s beautiful trails.
- Off-road and Jeep tours. Another great way to explore some of Colorado’s 24,906 miles of unpaved roads and see the mountainscapes.
- Scenic Train Rides – a fun way to share memories, see spectacular sights, and learn about history.
- Mountain Biking—Colorado has 6,821 miles of mountain bike trails and counting. Plus, all popular winter resorts offer lift service access to designed trails. You can rent a bike, sign up for a lesson, or explore the trails on your own.
Colorado Summer Activities List Keeps Going
The list of summer activities in Colorado is super long. Colorado is a place that attracts eclectic, outdoorsy type folks. If you can think of something you want to do, it’s probably happening in Colorado.
Popular Summertime Destinations
- The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – check out America’s highest suspension bridge and the onsight adventure park.
- Estes Park and Trail Ridge Road – stop by Colorado’s favorite National Park and travel over the highest pass in Colorado along the way.
- State and National Parks – learn more about Colorado’s parks and offerings.
- Colorado Hot Springs – explore Colorado’s many natural hot springs.
More Summer Activities in Colorado Ideas
Suppose you need more summer activities. Here are some more suggestions.
- Adventure Parks—Colorado is ubiquitous with outdoor adventure. However, adventure parks continue gaining popularity and are popping up all over Colorado. Most resort towns and similar locations have some variation of an adventure park, which combines man-made features with Colorado’s natural setting.
- Aerial Parks – ziplining in Colorado is a thrill and a fantastic way to get a birds-eye view of the mountainous terrain.
- Golfing – with over 200 courses throughout the state and within resort towns.
- Horseback Riding is a favorite way to experience the outback. Guided trail rides are available in popular vacation destinations.
- Kayaking, Canoeing & SUP – a favorite summertime activity. Rental shops are near any popular lake location.
- Marinas & Boating – boating is big in the landlocked state of Colorado.
- Whitewater Rafting – all those mountains full of snow turn into some of the best whitewater rafting you can find.
- Rock Climbing – find a rock climbing location.
- Skydiving & Hang Gliding – not for the light-hearted but more of what Colorado has in store for you.
Nearby any of these major attractions are pro shops which will provide equipment rentals and lessons.
Use our Free itinerary tool to schedule all your summer activities.
