Best Time of Year to Dive Colorado's Lakes and Reservoirs

Colorado diving doesn't follow the same calendar as ocean diving. There's no year-round warm water here, and each local site has its own rhythm. Here's what to expect season by season.

Spring (April to May)

Water is at its coldest as the ice comes off, often still in the 50s. Visibility can actually be some of the best of the year at sites like Chatfield, since runoff hasn't stirred things up yet. A good 7mm wetsuit or a drysuit is a must this time of year.

Summer (June to September)

This is peak season for local diving. Surface temperatures climb into the high 60s and low 70s at popular spots like Aurora Reservoir, though it stays noticeably colder at depth. Visibility varies by site: Carter Lake can reach 25 to 30 feet on a good day, while busier sites like Aurora tend to run more in the 10 to 20 foot range once the summer crowds show up.

Fall (late September to October)

Temperatures start dropping again, but many divers consider early fall a sweet spot: fewer crowds, and visibility that often rebounds as the water cools.

Winter

Most local sites close or freeze over. Chatfield's designated scuba area, for example, runs April 1 through October 1. This is the season to focus on training in our heated indoor pool, or better yet, book a warm-water trip.

Plan Your Season

Not sure which site fits your certification level or the time of year? Contact us and we'll help you plan it out, or check our course schedule if you want to get certified before diving season peaks.