With the days getting longer and hotter, there’s plenty of ways to beat the heat and dip your toes into some fun around the Mile High. Don’t forget your comically oversized water bottle and a hat commemorating one of the countless Colorado landmarks you’ve visited!
We invited our contributor David Sirota, who you might know as the Editor in Chief of The Lever, to shed his politics hat and pop on his beachy sun visor to help us come up with some awesome picks for how to spend a June day in Colorado on or near some water.
Lake Dillon Bike Loop
David’s pick for summer fun in the water is heading up to Lake Dillon with your bike to ride around the reservoir. “It's beautiful,” he says. “It feels like you’re in Switzerland, especially now in the summer.” His one warning? Everything is easy until you get 75% of the way around the reservoir, then you’ll hit a killer incline. So, maybe time to bust out that e-bike or try to turn around without anyone noticing. 😜While you’re at it, check out the schedule at Dillon Amphitheater; June has a beer festival and some great bands to catch!
Party Barge For the Gang
Olivia’s pick for hitting the water this summer is to rent a 22-foot pontoon boat with 10 of your closest friends to offset rental costs and enjoy a day on the lake. “You don’t have to have a rich friend who has a boat,” because you can rent one and make everyone Venmo you! And yes, I did just quote myself. There are a few websites where boat owners rent out their vessels to land-lubbers, and you can even pay extra for someone to captain the boat and to trailer it to a nearby lake. Don’t forget the cold drinks and sunscreen!
Hot Springs Oasis Nearby
If you prefer to see the bottom of the water you’re dipping your toes in, check out Bree’s choice: Indian Hot Springs up in Idaho Springs, less than a 40-minute drive from Denver! This indoor hot spring is open year-round and has a glass ceiling so you can enjoy it in any weather. The facility has mineral pools, mud baths, caves, adults-only nights, and lots of other amenities to enjoy. Plus, the gorgeous plants they decorate with are actually for sale! While you’re up in Idaho Springs, be sure to check out the new Mighty Argo Cable Car and grab a sandwich from my faves at Two Brothers Deli. 🤤
