What a perfect way to spend an afternoon! Paradise Cove Swimming Hole, also known as Guffey Gorge, is a little slice of heaven about two and a half hours from Denver. Not surprisingly, this spot gets incredible busy on the weekends so we decided to make the trip down on a weekday to avoid some of the crowds.
The hike itself to the swimming hole is relatively easy, with just a few steep spots right when you’re coming down into the gorge. Otherwise, it’s an absolutely stunning stroll through meadows and canyon walls.
After about a half mile, you make the steep descent down into the gorge and there’s the swimming hole!
The water is absolutely freezing, but after laying on the sun-soaked rocks for a few minutes it felt pretty nice! We brought a blanket for the rocks and lunch – others had hammocks and areas all set up. I’ve heard of people cliff jumping off the rocks, but definitely be careful because it’s pretty steep in a lot of spots.
Just a heads up there is a $6 fee for parking and the lot is small so it fills up pretty fast. But it’s totally worth taking the afternoon off to go and enjoy. Dogs are allowed on leash!
Rima was the real MVP and hiked in with a donut floatie which ended up being the best idea ever.
