Hiking in Colorado is a must year round, but come summertime, it is even better with warm temperatures and ever-scenic trails. Do you want to know another plus of Colorado summertime hikes? You can work up a sweat AND cool off, as a handful of hikes lead to epic swimming holes. If you are ready to take the plunge and are searching for the best swimming hole hike in Colorado, grab your towel and head to this refreshing trail.
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Located a mere hour from Colorado Springs near the small town of Florrisant is that of Paradise Cove and the short and sweet trail that leads there.
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Spanning one mile (out-and-back), the moderate Paradise Cove Swimming Hole Trail is considered to be the most beautiful hike in the area, thanks to its many trees, rocky cliffs, and — depending on the time of year — wildflowers.
While this scenic trail would be enough by itself, it’s what you’ll discover at the end of the trail that makes it so memorable.
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Arguably the most beautiful swimming hole in Colorado, Paradise Cove is a deep pool and waterfall that is surrounded by rugged cliffs, giving visitors an opportunity to dive at various heights.
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As per the Bureau of Land Management, overnight camping, alcohol, fires, amplified music, and off-leash pets are not permitted in Paradise Cove (which is also known as Guffey Gorge), so please keep this in mind while you visit the area.
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Please note: There is no permit needed to visit the area; however, between May 15th and September 30th, there is a $6.00 per vehicle per day fee that can be purchased on site.
Everyone has a different method for enjoying total relaxation and it can involve everything from going for a long walk to hopping on a motorcycle to curling up with a good book. If you love the outdoors, your secret to peace and quiet may involve a boat and a paddle and heading off to find hidden gems in nature. Kentucky is ideal for this and if you already enjoy kayaking as a hobby — or would like to — you’ll want to add this spot to your list of places to visit. Along Lake Cumberland, you can paddle to hidden waterfalls in Kentucky that are scenic, remote, and the perfect place to seek relaxation.
Photo Courtesy of @nate_and_akelas_travels
Lake Cumberland is a massive body of water that is well-known for boating, fishing, and other activities, but it is also filled with countless hidden spots that are downright beautiful.
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While the most popular spots on the lake tend to center around marinas and other well-known features, it’s not too difficult to find a section of the lake that is much quieter, especially on an overcast day.
Located near Monticello, Kentucky is an area of the lake called Twyford Point.
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At the end of Twyfords Point Road, you’ll find a section of the lake where you can put in a kayak and take off on an adventure throughout this more remote part of the lake.
All of the scenery surrounding Lake Cumberland is beautiful, which is what makes it so popular.
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This particular section is great for kayaks and other paddling excursions, with typically calm waters and hidden waterfalls to seek out.
As you paddle from Twyford Point, you’ll come upon Garner Branch Falls, which is only accessible by boat.
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When conditions are favorable, water rushes over the limestone, making for one of the most picturesque cascades in the Bluegrass.
Be sure to paddle up close and take in the view, while feeling that mist from the falls.
Photo Courtesy of @nate_and_akelas_travels
As with any outdoor adventure, always exercise caution and avoid this area after flooding. But when you do reach it on a perfect day, take your time and enjoy the peace of Mother Nature’s sound machine.
After visiting Garner Branch Falls, head back out and try and locate the nearby Hidden Falls.
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These two waterfalls are fairly close together on the lake and the entire trip to see both is about two miles of paddling.
Here is an up-close view of the second waterfall, displaying another picture-perfect cascade.
Photo Courtesy of @nate_and_akelas_travels
Lake Cumberland has all sorts of hidden spots like these, so be sure to branch out from the crowded areas and see what hidden gems you can discover.
Thanks to Nate & Akela of the Instagram Account @nate_and_akelas_travels for sharing their beautiful photos! You can see more of their adventures on their IG page.
