Montrose Has One of Colorado's Coolest Summer Escapes

The near triple-digit heat of summer has arrived in Western Colorado, and this has many of us trading overworked air conditioners for the cool, rushing water of the Montrose Water Sports Park.

The park on the Uncompahgre River is one of Montrose's signature summer attractions, drawing everyone from first-time visitors and paddleboarders to experienced kayakers and families looking for a fun day in the park.

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Summer Heat Is Bringing Bigger Crowds to the River

Chances are, if you live in Montrose, you’ve made friends while at one of the pools, the waterslides, or the Water Sports Park at Riverbottom. As temps approach 100 in the valley, families, kayakers, and paddleboarders flock to the Uncompahgre River to cool off, while others simply relax along the banks and watch the action. The park's free public access and central location make it an easy choice for anyone looking to cool off.

Why Everyone Finds Something to Enjoy Here

The biggest misconception about the Montrose Water Sports Park is that it’s a place for expert paddlers. It’s actually designed for everyone. The engineered whitewater course is great for kayaking and river surfing, while calmer shoreline areas welcome families, beginners, and spectators. Accessible viewing areas and easy river access make this park one of the Western Slopes' more popular riverside destinations.

Spend the Whole Day at Riverbottom Park

Colorado Families Love This Montrose Summer Hot Spot — TSM GJ W Adams

The Montrose Watersports Park is a part of the Riverbottom Park, which sits surrounded by recreation areas, playgrounds, picnic shelters, walking trails, open green space, and sports facilities nearby. Whether you're cooling off in the river or enjoying lunch in the shade, it's one of Montrose's top destinations and worth checking out this weekend.

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Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

NEXT: Montrose Facts Every Colorado Local Should Know

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At Montrose Regional Airport, five airlines form the backbone of commercial air service. Together, they provide the core connectivity for the region, with flight schedules that expand and contract throughout the year—ramping up during the busy summer tourism season and again in winter as ski travel to the San Juan Mountains peaks.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams