The equation for a perfect summer day is simple for pups: a sandy pet-friendly beach, water for a refreshing swim, shade, and snaccs. Whether your dog is a beach bum like my Lab Linus or a bone-a-fide star swimmer, the joy of a refreshing dip in the scorching heat is unmatchable. Plus, swimming is a fun, joint-friendly exercise that keeps your doggo happy and healthy. We sniffed out 6 options for dog-friendly swimming near Denver.
Getting Ready for a Swim
Before heading out for a glorious swim, make sure you pack all of the essentials to make a pleasant trip for you and pup. We know you don’t leave the house without water, poop bags, toys, and snaccs. For a special swimming adventure in the heat, we recommend packing an umbrella (because Denver isn’t exactly known for our shade trees), dog sunscreen, towels, and a life jacket.
Denver Swimming Holes
Sniff out these swimming holes near Denver for a splish-splashin’ good time.
Union Reservoir
Wanna work on your synchronized swim routine with your best fren? Head to Union Reservoir in Longmont, which features a gorgeous sandy coastline with trees and mountain views. Dogs can freely roam off leash and swim in designated areas on the south side of the reservoir. Entrance fees are $10 per car on weekdays and $12 on weekends. Paddleboard and kayak rentals are available.
Chatfield State Park
A pooch paradise, Chatfield State Park boasts 70 incredible acres of fully-fenced open space, natural grass, gravel paths, sandy areas, and two swimming ponds in their dog park. Dogs are also allowed in boats. Entrance fees are required for both the park and the dog park. It’s $10 for a daily vehicle pass (plus $3 for the dog park) or $80 for an annual pass (plus $25 for annual dog park pass). Pawlease limit dogs to three per hooman.
Cherry Creek State Park
Home to almost 110 acres, and including a swimming creek, open fields, and trails, the dog park at Cherry Creek State Park is caninely bliss. This Aurora park is the popular kid of dog parks, so try to get their early or be prepared to wait. State park pass or daily fee required.
Westminster Hills
Looking for a park worthy of your MVP (Most Valuable Pup)? Check out the 420-acre Westminster Hills. Offering scenic mountain views, plenty of shade, benches, and a swimming pond, the park is a perfect spot for a picnic and getaway. Westminster Hills is free, so it’s a great option for the dog pawrent on a budget.
Bonus: Indoor Denver Dog Pools
Is pupper more of an indoors guy? We don’t blame him. Here are some indoor dog swimming spots in Denver.
Canine Fitness & Fun Center
If it’s a stormy day or so hot your dog turns up his snout at the idea of going outside, head to Canine Fitness & Fun Center. Their huge 4-foot deep pool is always monitored by a trained lifeguard. Canine life vests are available, and there is a custom-built safety ramp for easy entry and exit. Day passes cost $16 for a group swim or $32 for a 20-minute private swim. Packages are also available for multiple swim trips. Your pup’s prob gonna beg you for the season pass.
K9 Body Shop
Looking for relaxation and rehabilitation? K9 Body Shop in Arvada offers recreational swimming in their indoor pool, physical therapy services, water therapy, and water treadmills. Trained, certified canine physical therapists work with dogs to improve their quality of life and support pooches with arthritis, chronic pain, and muscle weakness. Recreational swims are $50 for an initial swim with staff, then $16 for swims with their hoomans.
Sun’s Out, Pup’s Out!
We hope that you and your doggy paddler have a blast bonding at one of these swimming holes. What are pup’s fave swimming holes near Denver? Comment below or let us know in our Dog-Friendly Denver Facebook Group.
Featured photo: Anthony Duran
Sidewalk Dog’s mission is to help dog parents spend more time with their puppers by discovering and sharing activities they can do and places they can go—together! Sniff out our award-winning newsletter and Instagram, and join our Dog-Friendly Denver Facebook Group.
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