Then I crossed the Starrs. Photo: Michael Levine-Clark At 507 surface acres, Grand Lake is Colorado's largest natural body of water, and with impressive depths that reach down almost 400 feet, it's also the state's deepest. Amazing views but the trail is barely accessible 1/2 the time. Annie is a freelance writer, content editor, and marketing whiz with a background in broadcasting and a passion for chicken nachos. Address: Paradise Cove / Guffey Gorge, 13999 Main St, Guffey, CO 80820, USA Address: Adrenaline Falls, Durango, CO 81301, USA Address: San Isabel National Forest, Colorado 81233, USA While a beautiful spot, consider the risks before trying it. Saw a few people rub their heads. It was so fun! From a patron at a gas station in Colorado City, off Colorado 165 heading west toward the Wet Mountains. Crossing the water multiple times due to lack of trail isnt my idea of a moderate trail. Your momentum and the force of the water will push you down the slide. Just keep following the stream until you reach the Rocks. Guests of all ages will be sure to get wet and have a blast at Walsenburg Water Park. Hey guys. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. This was a challenge, water half way to knees. Short, beautiful hike. Not an easy trail. I went for it though, and Im glad I did! Adrenaline seekers will have a blast at the park. As of late July 2015 there was still plenty of (very cold) water for the waterslide. Unlimited Water Slides +$7. I took 4 boys 11-13 yrs old and our dog, we had a blast. From a patron at a gas station in Colorado City, off Colorado 165 heading west toward the Wet Mountains. If all that splashing and swimming has left you ravenous, no problem, Tippers Grill has something to satisfy. 07-11-2014, 02:49 PM . 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You have conquered the larger-than-life waterslides at Water World, made a splash in the pools at Elitches, and have even rafted the thrilling Colorado River so now what? Kingdom Water Park, Denver. Had a blast. Colorado San Isabel National Forest Natural Water Slide at San Isabel Photos Photos of Natural Water Slide at San Isabel Natural Water Slide at San Isabel. He fell. The Spa & Club Is Reserved For Overnight Guests And Spa Treatment Patrons Age 16+. If you have never been before, do not be ashamed to ask for help. Love Colorado? RELATED: Before You Visit, Know the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. I would like to visit this natural rock slide, but am not familiar with the area. Connected by a lazy river, these . There were only two on the sunny afternoon I was there the teenagers who made it a date spot. one of Colorado's premier hot springs, is an historic hot spring, family-friendly recreation facility, and world-class gym in the heart of downtown . Aside from running the sprinkler 24/7 and/or camping out in your air-conditioned home, there is another way. Theres always something to do! The kids may be back in school, but that doesn't mean that summer -- and all the fun that comes with it -- is over! . Jump onboard a tube and float your way down the lazy river, enjoying a scenic view of the park. The flowers are yellow and pink, purple and white, and the butterflies dancing around them are just as varied. I only watched. Its very apparent the trail was posted on AllTrails recently - we left with a full trash bag full of trash & saw so much off trail walking squashed wildflowers, etc. For the strenuous and hard core folks, you can continue past Upper Melakwa Lake to Melakwa Pass or perhaps try scaling Kaleetan Peak. Whirl round and round on the Spacebowl or blast down the Screamin Mimi. This is definitely a hike to do in hiking sandals or shoes that can get wet because they will!. The climbing wall will test your strength and the water basketball activity makes for hours of fun. Theres a brief sighting of Snowshoe Falls through the trees at 2.8 miles, 3520 ft. Snowshoe Falls dries up later in the summer and you wont see it. Turn left immediately after crossing the freeway. Passed the slide but found it on the way back. Easiest way to get back and forth across the stream is to wade across least strong currents. Then turn right on Forest Road 58 at the stop sign. Total distance (Round Trip) 4 miles to Keekwulee, 2.6 miles to slides, Total elevation gain 560 ft to Keekwulee Falls viewpoint, 140 ft to the slide. Even though it looks long, this will be faster than taking the steep and windy road down from 190 to 22S83. Awesome place to go. The twisting, thrilling slide will get your heart racing. The park also has a zip line for tons more fun. 4. You cant go wrong as long as you follow the creek. If you are wondering which of our many attractions are a must-visit, take our advice and visit all 12 of these incredible places in Colorado: Please note, Eldorado Springs Swimming Pool is temporarily closed for renovations. Some harder areas of the trail. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Lots of either climbing up & down or wading through the water. Natural Water Slide in Giant Sequoia National Monument, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtzYaTNlxpQ, Dome Rock in Giant Sequoia National Monument, Cottonwood Pass in the Golden Trout Wilderness. The crossing is on rocks in the river so at high water can become impassable. our children ranging from 6 to 14 loved it. A helicopter recovered his body. Whatever the season, the waterpark is always sure to be the right temperature. Skip the Waterpark & Check Out these Awesome Natural Water Slides. You are now inside the freeway as the eastbound lanes are about a mile separated from the westbound lanes from here to Snoqualmie Pass. Two thrilling slides will have your heart racing. We were camping at the lake, so we added some length to this by hiking from the campground, around the lake, to the trailhead (which is basically an unmarked path of the edge of the highway). The guy was really well-liked, said Dylan Shapiro, 18, with his girlfriend Roberts at the slide. I went today 10/3/14. 8 spiritual secrets for multiplying your money. There are a LOT of downed trees so be prepared to climb over and under throughout a good portion of the way. Mariah, 15, and Savannah, 12, had strong reviews. I used to go there years ago when it was relatively unknown. By Sydney Paschall | June 6, 2022. After Keekwulee Falls, the trail climbs steeply through a narrow, steeply walled canyon. Is there still enough water to make the slide fun? For a unique and scenic experience nestled right in the heart of nature, visit Clear Creek White Water Park. The trail has tons of downed trees and the trail is hard to follow at times but if you follow the river you will get to the falls. You have permission to edit this article. Difficulty: Moderate. Eldorado Springs Swimming Pool (Eldorado Springs) Eldorado Artesian Springs, Inc. To access the all-natural waterslide, drive through Colorado City and Rye and into San Isabel National Forest on Highway 165, which you will take for approximately 15 miles. Featuring waters fed from an artisan spring, Eldorado Springs Swimming Pool boasts both all-natural (and stunning) blue waters AND a comfortable temperature of 76 degrees (which is warmed to 80 by the pool's heating system). Great fun!! Thank goodness for those who helped and gave advice on the way. Its about 0.4 miles down, across Forest Road 58 and the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River to the Denny Creek trailhead. The kiddie areas are sure to make for hours of fun. I was there over Memorial Day weekend this year (2013) and it was less water than last year, but still flowing enough to be fun. They were sweet all right. A Bucket list checked off. No attempts to get selfies at the lip of the lower falls, please! Anyone been in the last couple of weeks? Free shipping for many products! Fishing, paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, dirt-biking, atv-ing, natural water slides,are just some of the great options for . We did this hike last June. Just off the trail (2.0 miles, 3050 ft) is a viewpoint of the falls from an outcropping of rocks. The slide area looked really fun but apparently you need to tuck in your head before end where you get dunked. There are no signs, and you wont find a sign on your way. So fun and so cold. It was tons of fun! Its elevation is 5115 feet which is 615 feet above Upper Melakwa Lake. Would not take someone who has a rough time moving around but for kids and healthy adults you are good. In addition to this unique opportunity, San Isabel also offers glorious hikes, which you will also experience as the slide is only accessible by foot. All year round to waterslides. Thank goodness for those who helped and gave advice on the way. Water Slides Daily: 4-7pm. If you are going to Franklin Falls, turn right onto the Franklin Falls Trail. Maybe Ill head up there again! Or grabbing that dusty longboard and kick . challenging and beautiful. Stay left and cross FR 58 after 0.1 mile. Explore Colorado natural water slide - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. The pool boasts a diving board and the waters are always cool and clear. Bring your favorite furry canine out for the Doggie Paddle Day, usually held right before the park closes for the season. 136 Lincoln Avenue . I see Kedra asked on May 19, but I dont see a response. The only signs of civilization were a Rockstar Energy Drink can standing against a spruces trunk and a Pringles can littered in a meadow. Then follow the stream up a very short way to Upper Melakwa Lake (elev 4500 ft). Then had to cross again to bypass more rocks, walk several hundred feet on the other side and recross to get back to the main trail. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. A hike usually has a trail and this was HARD to keep to a trail. Does anyone know is the slides are dry right now? Lie back like a pencil or paddle with your hands to accelerate. The feeling of my first sand volleyball game in a decade. Explore. Theres a brand new tot pool for young water lovers. Trailhead is 2550 ft. High point is 3050 ft. at Keekwulee Falls. It spreads across a wide granite shelf, cascading 30 feet in undulating sheets of water. A natural waterslide, two good sized waterfalls, lots of old growth forest mixed in with open areas with great views, and beautiful Alpine Lakes. They clung to bushes along the unmarked trail I hiked through San Isabel National Forest; the trail that indeed took me to what Id been told: a natural water slide. Home Travel Guides United States Colorado (CO) 10 Best Water Parks in Colorado. At 1.3 miles and 2690 ft, a side trail and steps lead down to the creek and slides. was happy to see people with trash bags helping to keep the area clean. Signup today for free and be the first to get notified on new updates. Very fun and pretty. You have to cross the water at the bottom to get to anything good really, and its pretty iffy. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! The trail has tons of downed trees and the trail is hard to follow at times but if you follow the river you will get to the falls. Whatever the season, youre sure to find an indoor or outdoor park that is perfect for you or for the whole family. If you go over, it will be the end. This is a must do trail for my family at least 2 times a year! Also, watch out for sudden rain storms in the summer after 4:00pm. The park also offers swimming lessons, water fitness classes, kids fitness classes and they host birthday parties. Soaking Pools Experience our pools, fed by an all natural hot spring right in downtown Steamboat Springs. The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is close to the Hotel Glenwood Springs so you can enjoy the huge indoor waterpark and then hop over for a unique adventure. Not many people so we missed it! Have you ever driven through a tunnel of trees? The water was high and fast, we had to walk in the river to get past some huge rocks. Trees down all over trail. Our two 6-year-olds were able to do it and had an amazing time. Very beautiful short hike! For the kids theres a zero-depth entry pool complete with an awesome slide and a unique rain tree fountain. Just keep following the stream until you reach the Rocks. Even small children can enjoy the area as there is a zero-depth entry. Showing results 1 - 90 of 93. Once the trail crosses this side creek it becomes more shaded and less rocky (except for another talus field crossing) though the ascent is still steep. Get more stories delivered right to your email. I just wanted to point out that from the parking lot to the actual slide area its more like a mile (I clocked it on GPS), not a half mile. All year round to waterslides. If you own a wetsuit, bring it! Waunita Hot Springs Ranch Gunnison Surrounded by Gunnison National Forest, this remote lodge is an ideal getaway for horseback riding, fishing and swimming in the hot-springs-fed pool. The water gushes over slippery smooth rocks into natural stone pools, making for the natural slide. 7. Begin your hike on a connector trail to the real Franklin Falls trailhead. From road it was very steep. The Lesiure Pool also offers a kiddie slide, zero-depth entry and shallow water area so even small children can enjoy the water. Right across from the main lodge are the Upper Pools. Sliding down the waterfall/waterslide was a lot of fun but would recommend that for older kids. Several down logs as well. Children will love the Lesiure Pool which comes complete with a huge tipper bucket, sprayers, and a unique play structure filled with interactive activities. Show off your sand castle building prowess at the Beach, the huge sand play area. There are great views into the valley (3.9 miles, 4125 ft) and the trail crosses a side creek which makes a nice drinking hole for dogs. Going to head there next week, really excited! A bar gate blocks the road. Our two 6-year-olds were able to do it and had an amazing time. You can find it, as I did, by parking in the lot nearest the dam stretching over Lake Isabel. Total disaster. On a hot summer day, the water is completely refreshing without a wetsuit. The trail continues in a thick forest towards the first major point of interest which is the Denny Creek Waterslide. Thrill seekers will enjoy the two huge waterslides at the park. The Bay Aquatic Park is sure to delight people of all ages. Fun slides are just the right size. Essentially no trail in a lot of places. Are you ready for one of the most difficult and butt-busting workouts of your life? You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Are there any tips for me on how to arrive to the water slide from the campground? In about 3/4 mile, the trail breaks out of the forest into the first open area and the climbing starts in earnest. Kids ages 4 & 9 were able to do it. Required fields are marked *, Notice: It seems you have Javascript disabled in your Browser. The kiddie areas make for hours of fun. I went in mid august and water was a little low but plenty to slide! Saw a few people rub their heads. Is there water to slide these days. When it comes to the most awe-inspiring natural attractions all in one place, there is no topping Colorful Colorado. Its so worth it. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for C1910 Circus Athlete Training Water Slide Pool Glenwood Springs CO Vtg Postcard at the best online prices at eBay! Estimated time: 1.5-3 hours depending on your fitness and how much time you want to spend there. Adrenaline seekers will have a blast at the park. Does it still exist? Amazing time. 0.2 miles after the turnoff to the waterslides, the Denny Creek Trail crosses Denny Creek. From the rolling Eastern Plains to the majestic mountains and beyond, there is truly no shortage of these all-natural wonders. Connected by a lazy river, these pools are surrounded by a grassy plateau and offer incredible views of the mountains above. The giant slides at the park are more than thirty feet high, including one enclosed water slide and one open slide. Crossing Denny Creek at waterslides can become impossible at high water. I really want to go down next weekend. Low water level. Reservations are not required to soak in the hot springs. On the east side of Denny Creek, the view opens up to Hemlock Pass. Theres a tube slide and a body slide, each offering over one hundred and fifty feet of adventure, spills and splashes. The Alpine views from Upper Melakwa are absolutely stunning. Amazing natural water slide. peter w busch why is it important to serve your family natural water slide colorado. Located just outside of Silverton, Molas Lake Park & Campground is a colorful 137-acre campground that sits beside the infamously gorgeous Million Dollar Highway and was named the "Most Scenic Campground in Colorado" by AAA! That being said, make plans to take a ride down this all-natural water slide, which is hiding out within the beautiful San Isabel National Forest. Was wondering if there was any water left? our children ranging from 6 to 14 loved it. Short, beautiful hike. Is the hike strenuous? Stay away from any rock area sloping down towards the lower falls. Im pretty reckless with nothing to lose and I almost didnt do it. For high adventure, big splashes, heart pounding adrenaline, hours of laughter, and a memorable time, dont miss the water parks of Colorado. Take your pet and your lady and make sure they go in water with you! We were camping at the lake, so we added some length to this by hiking from the campground, around the lake, to the trailhead (which is basically an unmarked path of the edge of the highway). Rocks are basketball to car sized. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. When people mention deadfall, theres no way to exaggerate how AWFUL it was. natural water slide colorado. What is the half mile hike like back to the slide? There was usually about 200 hippies and we all sat around on the edge of the rockslide naked it was quite a scene. Harder than what it described but super fun!! San Isabel Natural Water Slide, Colorado Integrity Auto Care If you are looking for a somewhat leisurely hike and a smaller water slide adventure, we recommend this epic spot near Rye, Colorado. Ride the 400 Water Slide Memorial Day Labor Day. Brought young kids and they enjoyed the hike in The water was rushing harder than I remember, but it was doable. Welcome to the stunning Island Lake; a small lake in the beautiful San Juan National Forest that features some of the most turquoise waters in the state. There is a sign just after the crossing noting that the path switches sharply to the left. For more cool things to do this summer, take a dip in The Incredible Spring-Fed Pool In Colorado You Absolutely Need To Visit! Ive hiked in another 20 minutes and still havent found it, he said. Kaleetan (meaning Arrow) Peak (6224 ft) does not have a well defined trail and requires route finding ability as well as up to a Class 3 rock scramble in places. (7 & 4 years old). This would be the recommended way from Kings Canyon: http://goo.gl/maps/RpQx The best roads in to the trailhead are from the south, taking 22S82 to 22S83. The Denny Creek trailhead is at 2550 ft elevation. But at the back of the lot, find the pathways that mar the ground sloping into the forest. Hot Spring Day Passes may not be purchased in advance. This has some very technical sections where are you basically just have to go off trail and Boulder. Winter users need equipment and experience in avalanche prone areas. Thank you in advance! Then word got out and careless people started drinking, smoking and shooting, and littered the place with broken bottles, pop top tabs, butts and bullets. If you have kiddos, this is a must! Annie is a freelance writer, content editor, and marketing whiz with a background in broadcasting and a passion for chicken nachos. Be prepared to get wet, it is necessary to cross the creek at least once or twice to navigate towards the water slide. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Right across from the main lodge are the Upper Pools. Just returned, water still flowing, and a bit low but great time had by all. Descending the other side of Melakwa Pass leads to Chair Peak Lake, Gem Lake and Snow Lake. Lets take a look: So fun, right?! But in the West, the word "plan" remains a 4-letter word to many supporters of the laissez-faire traditions in water management . Fun for the whole family, our facility is easily accessible whether you are driving, or taking a hotel shuttle and is mere steps away from the free town bus stop at Lincoln and 3rd Street. If you add a couple of water crossings on the way back you can cut out some of the bouldering. but beware of serious shrinkage, that water is coooold ! Think good grip and traversing foot deep water in parts. Some parks are tucked away in beautiful, scenic areas. You can go this way and end up back along I-90 for an 11 mile hike with transportation arranged. The hot springs are open to the public every day of the week. There are a LOT of downed trees so be prepared to climb over and under throughout a good portion of the way. The first part is pretty steep going down, and then steep coming back up at the end! Then go back up the ridge to again pick up the trail to the summit. Adventure seekers will love the thirty foot tall water slides. Beautiful trail and well worth traversing rocks to get to the slide. This definitely needs to be changed to HARD until the trail is cleared and safe. Beautiful! Turn left and cross over the freeway. If you arent a water fan, theres a huge deck area with chairs for lounging. I am 52. Climb the ridge until you have to drop down the west side and traverse the base of the cliffs through a scree field. Even smaller water lovers will have a blast on the three foot long Seal Slide. Slide Rock State Park in Sedona boasts a water slide that formed all by itself - absolutely no human intervention. 700 W 7th St, Walsenburg, CO 81089, Phone: 719-738-2628 The parking lot is on the right BUT you need to cross the road to go to the dirt fire road. Lots of either climbing up & down or wading through the water. The hike is not strenuous its merely a dirt road, though there is a slight incline. Keekwulee Falls occurs as Denny Creek emerges from a narrow canyon. Located south of Steamboat Springs, the Devils Causeway is a jagged and narrow peak that stands at an elevation of nearly 12,000 feet and is recommended for only the most skilled of hikers, as some spots are a mere four feet wide. Alcohol may be purchased at the Bath House service counter or the Juice Bar. Thank you! ), which is evident at the jaw-dropping Wheeler Geologic Area: a series of highly eroded volcanic ash from an explosion nearly 25 millions years ago. Thought to have once been home to Native Americans some 9,000 years ago, the Paint Mines Archeological District is an incredible area chock full of "a unique blending of geological, archaeological, historical and ecological resources.". Lots of rock scrabbling and water crossing.. very hilly I would not recommend taking small children, some of the river crossing and hills would have been precarious. Tucked away within the scenic San Isabel National Forest lies one of Colorado's "coolest" hidden gems: an all-natural water slide! it's easy to lose track. The 400 Water Slide is family friendly. Also in the lodge were a man and his young boy, who said I should try the raspberries I find on my way. Session 1: The Rise of State Water Planning. Melakwa Pass is a 0.5 mile rock scramble up the center of the valley beyond Upper Melakwa Lake. Now that youve hiked 5 miles to here, its a must to do another 0.3 to Upper Melakwa Lake. Speaking of summer not being over yet, have you had a chance to ride along the exciting Boulder Creek? This was a challenge, water half way to knees. Now the trail has two long switchbacks up exposed rockslides (1.7 mi). Climb the steep walls and brave a huge plunge on the Zoomerang. Total distance (Round Trip) 10 to Melakwa Lake, 11 to Upper Melakwa Lake, Total elevation gain 2700 ft. to upper Melakwa Lake, 2600 ft to Lower Melakwa Lake. Thank you! Old Town Hot Springs has two exciting 230-foot long water slides that are open seasonally throughout the year. It includes zero-depth entry on one end and a slightly deeper end for older toddlers. Comments. Huge down trees block path often & make it impossible to stay on trails. The bottom portion of the course is for the more experienced paddler. Does anyone know if the water is running enough to use the slide today (for July 4th weekend)? it's easy to lose track. We just got back from the natural water slide (my second visit). Situated upon smooth boulders, this natural water slide is fed by the clear waters of the St. Charles Creek, which quickly cascade down the rocks before plummeting into a cool pond below. Brave the white waters of the Cimarron River. We wound up at the Natural Slides just down from Lake San Isabel. The water side is amazing and while its very scary, its actually really fun. Open seasonally, the outdoor waterpark features a lap pool with gorgeous clear waters and two thrilling one hundred and eighty two foot waterslides.