Adventure abounds in Colorado, and there’s no shortage of ways to get the whole family outside to explore. From mellow raft trips to scenic day hikes and mountain ziplines, you’ll find summer activities everyone will enjoy. Where to start? We chatted with local mountain biking expert Brooke Goudy and fly-fishing guide Jennings Hester about a few of their favorite spots. These fun-focused trips—in and around Denver, Colorado Springs, and Cañon City—are a great introduction to all that Colorado has to offer.
Denver
Hit the Whitewater Park in Downtown Denver
Grab an inflatable tube from Confluence Kayak & Ski and tackle the splashy whitewater at Confluence Park. A few short drops add a little excitement to the otherwise slow-moving stretch of the South Platte River that cuts through the city. On your way to the park, grab snacks at the Denver Central Market, where a dozen vendors set up shop, and have a picnic on the grass next to the water while you watch other tubers and kayakers. Stay at the hip and walkable Ramble Hotel, just a few blocks from the market, and grab a cocktail in the lobby bar, Death & Co.