When I say the word “gorge,” what comes to mind? Let me guess: The jaw-dropping Royal Gorge Bridge in Canon City, right? (That was the first thing to come to my mind, too!) While this is popular example, Colorado is home to other scenic gorges as well, including this hidden one that is sure to leave you in awe.

Also known as Paradise and Guffey Cove, the Guffey Gorge is one of Colorado’s most beautiful and memorable swimming holes and attractions.

Wikimedia Commons/fguff330

Located just outside of Guffey (about two hours southwest of Denver), the area features a number of stunning landscapes, including lush meadows…

Yelp/Susi H.

…winding dirt paths…

Yelp/Kim K.

…and steep, rocky cliffs which surround the entire area.

Yelp/Susi H.

Access to Guffey Gorge can be found via a small parking lot beside CR 102 and requires a short 1/2 mile hike to find.

Yelp/Kim K. (The hike gives you more time to enjoy the surrounding beauty!)

Since the gorge serves as a popular swimming hole during the summer, fall is the perfect time to visit, as crowds of over-heated thrill seekers will be next to none.

Yelp/Kim K.

Wikimedia Commons/fguff330

Yelp/Susi H.

Yelp/Kim K.

(The hike gives you more time to enjoy the surrounding beauty!)

Please Note: There is a $6 per vehicle day use fee, plus certain rules that all visitors must abide by, including no alcohol, no amplified music, no overnight camping, no target shooting, no glass, no campfires or open flames, and dogs must be on a leash or attached to a fixed object.

Staying on the topic of natural beauty, did you know There’s A Place Called Devil’s Backbone In Colorado And It’s Basically Heaven?

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