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.
Ancient Aliens Live
May 23
1621 Glenarm Pl., Denver, COExperience the long-running hit program “Ancient Aliens” LIVE on tour! This interactive event explores thoug
Boulder Creek Festival
May 24 - May 27
212 Canyon Blvd, Boulder, COBoulder Creek Festival will be taking place from May 25 – May 27 with a Friday night concert on May 24. 4 Days, 30
Learn to Curl with the Broadmoor Curling Club
May 25
3185 Venetucci Blvd, Colorado Springs, COThe Broadmoor Curling Club is holding a Learn to Curl Clinic 25 May 24. We welcome those who have never tried curling an
Outside Festival
Jun 01 - Jun 02
Denver Civic Center Park, 101 14th Ave., Denver, COThe first-ever Outside Festival will take place in downtown Denver from June 1-2, 2024. This new event is a one-of-a-kin
Steamboat Marathon
Jun 02
Steamboat Springs, COJoin us on June 2, 2024 for the 43rd running of the Steamboat Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k. Run alongside the roaring
GoPro Mountain Games Vail
Jun 06 - Jun 09
Vail, COCome celebrate 21 years with us! The nonprofit Vail Valley Foundation, which hosts the GoPro Mountain Games each year, l
Dream State
Jun 06 - Jun 08
119 Park Ave W., Denver, COCome out of your dark day into a brighter night, join us in our Dream State. Set to a selection of music from the Academ
Pikes Peak Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show
Jun 07 - Jun 09
1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, COThe Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society is excited to announce our 2024 Pikes Peak Gem, Mineral, & Jewelry Show!
Frida’s Wings
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2590 Walnut Street, Boulder, COIn Frida’s Wings, Danse Etoile Ballet will explore the art and life of this famed artist, a contrast of tradition
USS Nationals 2024 Presented by Cerberus Strength
Jun 08
National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St, Denver, COWe are very excited to have everyone head west to come visit the beautiful Colorado in June of 2024! This event will con