Parents, meanwhile, will love unwinding on a sunset cruise afterward. Tykes will love catching glimpses of river otters and black bears at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. The area surrounding Squam Lake truly offers something for every generation. This place was made for the grade school set, and thatвЂ™s just fine. Or just taking it all in from the comfort of your beach chair, icy beverage and sandwich in hand, with the rest of the grateful parents. Hitting the playground before doing a cannonball off the swim dock. A time when summertime meant loading the brood into the car for an easygoing after- noon of building sandcastles, picnicking, and playing pinball. Home to the oldest penny arcade in America (yes, many games here really do cost just a penny), Spring Lake is a throwback to a simpler time. When you return from your excursion, the tranquil waters beckon for a swim or paddle. The boulder field is accessible from the parkвЂ™s extensive network of hiking trails, but be sure to bring a map: Even regulars have been known to get turned around on the hunt for these geological phenomena. But one of the siteвЂ™s major selling points dates back even further-all the way to the end of the Ice Age, when melting glacial ice deposited massive boulders on what is now parkland. This off-the-beaten-path lake and surrounding 5,500-acre preserve have attracted outdoorsy families for decades. Which is likely just how Thoreau would have wanted it.

WaldenвЂ™s blessedly crowd-free sands come with a catch-youвЂ™ll need to arrive early, as the park closes to visitors once the parking lot is full. Some two centuries later, the sentiment still applies to this Concord gem, where young and old alike wander carefree down the path around the pond and enjoy natureвЂ™s glory from the beach under the watchful eye of lifeguards. Learn more about whitewater rafting and other outdoor adventures in Colorado Springs.вЂњHeaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.вЂќ So wrote Henry David Thoreau in his book Walden, named for the 61-acre pond (pictured above) along which he spent two years in a cabin. Check with your guide for the latest conditions and advice. Rafting outfitters will be able to advise you on the best time for your trip according to your groupвЂ™s ages and levels of expertise.

Heading into August and September the flow is more mild and subdued. In May and June, when snowmelt is at its peak, the rivers run faster for a more thrilling adventure. The intensity of the rapids will change throughout the season as the snow melts from nearby mountains. You may enjoy rafting from May through September. No matter what your skill level or budget, the whitewater rafting outfitters have an exciting trip waiting for you. Many of the areaвЂ™s outfitters offer deals and coupons to make whitewater rafting near Colorado Springs even more affordable. How can I save on my whitewater rafting trip? Those seeking the ultimate in world class whitewater may choose the scenic splendor of the famous Royal Gorge. The Arkansas River is the most popular river for rafting in the United States, offering both family-friendly and high adventure experiences. Where can you raft near Colorado Springs?

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