With 158 named rivers stretching across an impressive 90,000 miles, Colorado is known as the Headwaters State. The rivers are fed by snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains, and in turn, they supply drinking water for wildlife, as well as 40 million people across seven states and into Mexico. But this year, the best Colorado summer activities may be found beyond the riverbank.
The Colorado River, known as a lifeline for the American Southwest, powers farms, cities, and hydroelectric grids. It also draws millions of visitors each summer to enjoy some of the country’s best-in-class whitewater rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, and Gold Medal fly-fishing.
But the rivers are in trouble. Historic drought, record-breaking heat, and decades of over-allocation have pushed Colorado’s water systems to the brink. According to Penn State’s Institute of Energy and the Environment, “The Colorado River is an already stressed system, and we are at a critical point where every drop matters.”
Conservation efforts are underway. Farmers are being incentivized to upgrade infrastructures and increase efficiencies, and innovative nature-based water restoration practices are being explored.
What does this mean for river recreation?
Summer is here, and adrenaline junkies, anglers, and lazy Sunday floaters are wondering what to expect.
Outfitters are encouraging people to think of rafting, kayaking, and paddle boarding as a “different” kind of adventure this summer, not a lesser one. Beginners will find gentler rapids on slower, lower stretches—perfect conditions for getting their river legs. Veteran paddlers will discover new challenges in sections with greater rock exposure and tighter channels.
Lower flows will cause warmer temperatures, which can stress the local trout population, so anglers are encouraged to catch-and-release in the early hours of the day before water temperatures rise.
Colorado Summer Activities Beyond the River
If the rivers don’t beckon, Colorado offers plenty of alternative alpine adventures like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and golf. Thrill-seekers can find zipline tours throughout the state, and those looking to relax will revel in some of the area’s 30 hot springs resorts or the vapor caves in Glenwood Springs or Ouray.
If you have a weekend or longer, consider backpacking or camping in the national parks, forests, and state parks. If you’re feeling ambitious, plan to wake up early and attempt to summit one of Colorado’s 53 14ers. Explore some of the state’s 25,000 documented bouldering, sport, trad, and alpine climbing routes, or find an indoor climbing gym to learn or practice.
Looking for something a bit more mellow? Hop in a car and travel scenic byways dotted with wildflowers and wildlife to some of the state’s most beloved mountain towns, where you’ll find restaurants, shopping, and festivals.
Though Colorado is celebrated for its beautiful and bountiful river systems, there is no shortage of opportunities to enjoy our outdoor playground.