On a hot summer day, there’s nothing more satisfying than dipping into a swimming hole, whether it’s natural or man-made. Here in Northern Colorado, we have several hikes leading to swimming holes and waterfalls, providing a refreshing respite from the harsh Colorado sun.
Whether you want to dive into a pool of water, dip your feet in a stream, or simply feel refreshing mist from a waterfall, these hikes offer a perfect blend of excitement and rejuvenation. Venture with us as we navigate through the picturesque landscapes of the region’s forests and canyons, each trail promising its own unique charm and natural beauty — and a cool body of water that makes the journey all the more worthwhile.
IN FORT COLLINS:
Shoreline Trail to Horsetooth Reservoir | Fort Collins
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.6 Miles, Out and Back
Horsetooth Reservoir is well-known in Fort Collins and throughout Northern Colorado for its proximity to the city and secluded natural setting. The 6.5 miles of water are teeming with activity, where you can go fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, swimming, scuba diving and water skiing. If you want to make your visit a little more active, consider hiking to the reservoir! You’ll simply take Shoreline Trail, an easy 1.6-mile out-and-back trail in Lory State Park. Keep in mind you’ll need to pay for a $10 daily vehicle pass to enter the park.
Horsetooth Falls Loop Trail | Fort Collins
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.9 Miles, Loop
It’s no secret that Horsetooth Mountain Open Space in Fort Collins has miles and miles of outdoor adventure space, perfect for hiking, biking and horseback riding. This particular loop trail only allows hiking, though, so you won’t have to be on the lookout for bikers or horseback riders during your 2.9-mile hike! At the end of your journey, you’ll be rewarded with views of the beautiful Horsetooth Falls. If you’re brave, stand under the falls to allow the ice-cold Spring Creek water to cascade over you! The majority of this trail isn’t covered, so local hiking enthusiasts suggest wearing protective clothing and sunscreen to protect against the sun. But the journey is stunning, especially during the early summer when wildflowers are lining the trail! The entrance fee to the open space is $10 per vehicle and can be paid at the machine at the entrance.
Soldier Canyon Falls | Fort Collins
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.2 Miles, Out and Back
While the hike to Soldier Canyon Falls isn’t a super long trek —i t’s only about 0.2 miles roundtrip — it does make a fantastic addition to a few of the other amazing hikes in Lory State Park. The area is just 25 minutes from Fort Collins, making it the perfect afternoon jaunt or all-day exploration activity! The trail crosses over three bridges finally reaching the pool at the bottom of Soldier Canyon Falls. The view from the bridges is stunning, offering peeks of the Soldier Canyon Creek and Soldier Canyon.
IN STEAMBOAT SPRINGS:
Strawberry Park Hot Springs | Steamboat Springs
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.2 Miles, Out and Back
Soaking in Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of our favorite things to do in Steamboat Springs. With its natural rock-lined pools, breathtaking mountain views, and the soothing sound of the hot mineral water cascading down the rocks, the hot springs provide the ultimate relaxation experience. The pool is available for overnight guests from sunrise to midnight and is open to day-use guests until 10 p.m. You must make a reservation for a 2-hour window in advance, which becomes available 25-30 days in advance. While you can always just park at the springs, why not make your visit a bit more adventurous by hiking to the springs instead? Take the Strawberry Park Hot Springs Trail, a 6.2-mile out and back trail winding through open areas, woods, and along Hot Springs Creek. Once you’re there, you’ll pay $20 per person (cash only) to enjoy the hot springs! Here’s everything you need to know about hiking to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, including what to know when you get there.
Fish Creek Falls | Steamboat Springs
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 4.5 Miles, Out and Back
Nestled just moments away from downtown Steamboat Springs, the Fish Creek Falls Trail beckons adventurers to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of Colorado’s wilderness. This 4.5-mile out-and-back trek offers a thrilling challenge marked as hard, rewarding hikers with awe-inspiring vistas of nature’s grandeur. As you venture along the trail, the thunderous rush of clear alpine water cascading down Fish Creek Canyon fills the air, leading to the breathtaking sight of the 280-foot Fish Creek Falls. While a leisurely stroll along a gravel path unveils the lower falls, the more adventurous can embark on a moderate hike to explore Upper Fish Creek Falls and Long Lake, deep within the scenic Routt National Forest. Whether it’s the roaring peak of spring snowmelt or the tranquil cascade of late summer, Fish Creek Falls promises an unforgettable experience in every season.
King Solomon Falls | Steamboat Springs
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 0.9 Miles, Out and Back
This fun but tricky-to-find hike is a favorite for Steamboat Springs locals, and offers a rewarding splash for your troubles! You’ll hike along the middle fork of the Little Snake River, maneuvering down ropes and balancing across river crossings, until you reach your destination. You can stop at the first waterfall, which offers shallower cliff jumping and a refreshing basin to soothe your tired muscles — then dry in the sun on the nearby rocks. However, adventurers will enjoy hiking further to find the second waterfall, which offers a scarier jump (around 60 feet or so), sculpted rocks, and turquoise waters. Here are some helpful tips for navigating your way to this summer hot spot. If you remember anything, just remember to leave the sandals at home.
IN ESTES PARK:
Alberta Falls Trail | Estes Park
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.6 Miles, Out and Back
For a leisurely waterfall hike, head to the Glacier Gorge Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. Roughly eight-tenths of a mile from the trailhead, hikers will find one of the most popular hiking destinations in the park: Alberta Falls. This scenic, 30-foot waterfall thunders down a narrow gorge into Glacier Creek, offering a stunning (and rewarding) view. Because this hike is fairly short, we recommend packing a picnic lunch to enjoy near the waterfall! Plus, you can always couple it with another longer hike in within RMNP.
Bridal Veil Falls | Estes Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 6.1 Miles, Out and Back
Nestled in the northern expanse of Rocky Mountain National Park, the hike to Bridal Veil Falls offers a captivating adventure amid nature’s splendor. Beginning at the Cow Creek Trailhead, this 6.2-mile roundtrip journey promises a delightful blend of landscapes, from vast meadows to dense forests. As you travel along the Cow Creek Trail, keep your eyes peeled for the park’s diverse wildlife, ranging from majestic elk and deer to soaring eagles. While the hike presents a moderate challenge with rocky scrambles along the way, the reward at the end is nothing short of breathtaking. Bridal Veil Falls, gracefully cascading from a picturesque rock slab, captivates visitors with its serene beauty. Escape the crowds of the park’s central areas and embrace solitude on this tranquil weekday escape, immersing yourself in the untamed beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Ouzel Falls | Estes Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.4 Miles, Out and Back
As you can see, Rocky Mountain National Park is home to a plethora of waterfalls — you could run into a refreshing cascade on pretty much any trail you walk! But one of the most beautiful and satisfying is the trek to Ouzel Falls. To get there, enter through the Wild Basin Entrance on the southeastern side of the park and head to the Wild Basin Trailhead. While you’re there, be sure to pay a visit to Copeland Falls, which are close to the parking area. After you’ve gotten several pictures, continue for 1.5 miles up a moderate grade to reach Calypso Cascades. Then climb the last, moderate trek of this journey to the 40-foot Ouzel Falls. Be sure to spend a while exploring the area! There are trails that lead to below and above the falls that you’ll definitely want to see.
Happy Trails!
We hope you have a fun — and refreshing — hike!
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