08/23/2026
It’s hot - and that’s an understatement.
We definitely enjoy having you out at the park, but it’s hot. We want everyone to be safe (and that includes our Park Rangers). Help ensure heat safety, for you and us, with the following safety tips:
💧 Bring plenty of water (and then bring more, and then some extra, and then some electrolytes). At least 32 ounces of water per person, per hour of activity. If you are questioning whether it’s too much, it’s not. Please bring more.
☀️ Wear sunscreen and know your limits. Direct sun and no shade is absolutely brutal. Ask anyone who has hiked to Gorman Falls in the summer, they’ll tell you and can vouch for this.
🗺️ Bring a map and have a plan. Know where you want to go or ask us for recommended options. Gorman Falls can wait until it cools off outside. Trust us.
🐶 Pets - most likely best to leave them at home when it’s this hot. If you can’t hold the back of your hand to the ground for at least 5 seconds, the ground is too hot for your pets. Don’t forget - they need water too just like you!
🎉 Extra Pro Ranger Tip - if you must hike, start early and be off trail by 11am. Colorado Bend opens at 6am, perfect time to start a hike. We hear sunrise hikes and visiting during cooler weather are totally the new thing.
Help us help you. Follow the tips above to keep you, your family, your friends, your pets, and your Colorado Bend Park Rangers safe.
✅ Be safe, be smart, and be prepared! See you when it cools off outside. 😉
