Where To Find Colorado's Coolest Summer Getaways

When temperatures peak in Colorado, don’t waste time indoors in the cool air, that's no fun. Instead, make the most of the summer by escaping to one of these refreshing Colorado destinations.

In the peak of summer, Colorado can experience sweltering temperatures that exceed 100 degrees. The highest temperature ever recorded in the state reached an astonishing 114 degrees in Las Animas on July 13, 1933.

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Colorado Plains Temperatures

On Colorado's eastern plains, temperatures can far exceed the 100-degree mark. The area is barren with hardly any trees or shaded areas. This is also where some of the most severe weather can happen in Colorado. Tornadoes, hailstorms, and blowing wind are very common in the area.

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Colorado Front Range

The Colorado Front Range has milder temperatures. That doesn't mean the temps won't skyrocket. Averages for the area are normally in the mid to high 80s, with temps peaking in the 90s. Its proximity to the Colorado mountain ranges makes the weather a bit unpredictable, with heavy rains and winds.

Colorado Western Slope

The western slope of Colorado is the beginning of the "desert" regions. Temps here can well exceed the 100-degree mark, with the summer days averaging in the 90s. This happens more when in the Grand Valley region near Grand Junction, Colorado.

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Colorado High Mountains

This is where you want to spend your time. The high elevations of the Colorado Rockies keep the temperatures in the 70s and 80s. Erratic weather can happen at any time in the high mountains, so you'll want to be prepared with a jacket and long pants.

If you're looking for a place to beat the summer heat, take a look at these locations.

Cool Places to Escape Colorado's Hot Temperatures

When summer temps in Colorado become unbearable, there are locations you can go to escape the heat. Most of these locations are high in the mountains, although, that doesn't mean there's nothing to do.

We've researched these locations with an average summer temperature in the mid-80s and below. That doesn't mean the temperatures won't get hotter than this, but it's a good chance you'll feel cooler and find some chill things to do.

11 Cool Colorado Lake Towns to Enjoy This Summer

Summer means turning up the heat in Western Colorado, so we are turning up the fun. Here are eleven cool Colorado lake towns you can visit with friends and family to help you cool off.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

11 Cool Colorado Lake Towns to Enjoy This Summer

Summer means turning up the heat in Western Colorado, so we are turning up the fun. Here are eleven cool Colorado lake towns you can visit with friends and family to help you cool off.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams