6 Tips for Enjoying Summer Outdoors in Northern Colorado

Summer in Northern Colorado brings sunshine, warmth, and endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether hosting backyard barbecues, taking adventure trips on recreational vehicles, or simply relaxing in your outdoor living space, staying cool, comfortable, and safe is the key to making the most of the season. With temperatures climbing and the high-altitude sun beating down, these summer heat tips will help you create an outdoor oasis while enjoying all that Northern Colorado has to offer.

Create Shade with Pergolas, Trees, and Shade Sails

Creating strategic outdoor shade is one of the most effective ways to beat the summer heat. Pergolas offer an elegant solution that provides partial shade while maintaining an open, airy feel. These structures protect you from the intense Colorado sun and create defined outdoor rooms perfect for dining or lounging.

Trees serve double duty by providing natural shade and improving air quality around your home. Native Colorado trees like honey locust, hackberry, or Kentucky coffee tree are excellent choices that thrive in our climate while offering cooling canopy coverage. For immediate relief, shade sails provide a modern, flexible solution that can be adjusted seasonally and come in various colors to complement your outdoor aesthetic.

When planning outdoor adventures on motorcycles, ATVs, or boats, seek shaded areas for breaks. Always check weather forecasts before heading out, as the intense summer sun combined with outdoor activities can quickly lead to heat exhaustion.

Use Cooling Plants Like Lemons, Cucumber & Mint

Transform your outdoor space into a refreshing retreat by incorporating cooling plants that engage multiple senses. Container gardens with lemon trees provide fresh citrus for summer drinks and release an invigorating scent that makes the air feel cooler. Cucumber plants offer crisp, hydrating snacks straight from the vine, perfect for those hot afternoon cravings.

Mint deserves special mention as a cooling powerhouse. Plant it in containers (to prevent it from taking over your garden) near seating areas where brushing against it releases its refreshing aroma. Use fresh mint leaves in water, iced tea, or summer cocktails for an instant cooling effect. Other herbs like basil and lemon balm provide similar sensory cooling while adding fresh flavors to your summer meals.

Don't Skip Sunscreen—Make it Easily Accessible

Northern Colorado's high altitude means UV rays are more intense, making sun protection essential. Create sunscreen stations throughout your outdoor living spaces by placing water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF in decorative containers near each seating area, by the pool, and at entry points to your yard.

This tip becomes even more critical when enjoying recreational vehicles. Apply sunscreen thoroughly before hitting the trails on your ATV or cruising on your motorcycle. Combined wind and sun exposure can lead to severe burns without proper protection. Keep travel-sized sunscreen in your boat, jet ski storage compartment, or motorcycle saddlebags. Remember to reapply every two hours, especially after water activities.

Consider installing attractive dispensers or creating a sun safety basket that includes sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, aloe vera gel, and protective clothing like lightweight long-sleeve shirts and wide-brimmed hats.

Add Water With Pools, Fountains & Water Sprayers

Nothing beats the heat quite like water features in your outdoor space. Smaller water elements can significantly cool your environment even if a full pool isn't in your plans. Fountains create soothing sounds while adding humidity to dry Colorado air, making the temperature slightly cooler.

For family-friendly options, install misting systems around patios or play areas. These can reduce ambient temperature by up to 20 degrees while using minimal water. Portable water sprayers and cooling fans provide flexibility for different areas of your yard.

Grill Outdoors to Save Energy and Beat the Heat

Take your cooking outside to keep indoor temperatures down while enjoying the social aspects of outdoor dining. An outdoor kitchen or grilling area becomes the heart of summer entertaining, allowing you to prepare meals without heating your home.

Design your outdoor cooking space with convenience in mind. Include prep areas, storage for grilling tools, and nearby seating for guests to gather while you cook. Consider adding a refrigerator or cooler station to keep beverages and ingredients cold, reducing trips inside.

When planning your outdoor cooking area, think beyond the basic grill. Pizza ovens, smokers, and outdoor cooktops expand your culinary options while keeping the heat outside where it belongs. Position cooking areas strategically to use prevailing breezes and natural shade patterns.

Eat Light and Fresh for Hot Northern Colorado Days

Summer heat calls for a shift in dining habits. Focus on fresh, hydrating foods that don't weigh you down. Create colorful salads with locally grown produce, prepare cold soups like gazpacho, and enjoy plenty of fresh fruit. Watermelon, cucumbers, and citrus fruits have high water content that helps maintain hydration.

Set up beverage stations with infused waters featuring cucumber, mint, or fresh berries. Keep plenty of electrolyte-rich drinks on hand, especially if you're planning outdoor adventures. Pack plenty of water and light snacks when preparing for a day on your boat or an ATV trail ride. Dehydration is a serious risk during summer activities, so drink water regularly even if you don't feel thirsty.

Cool Off This Summer with Bath Landscape & Irrigation

Creating your perfect outdoor oasis requires thoughtful planning and professional execution. Bath Landscape & Irrigation transforms Northern Colorado yards into comfortable, functional spaces that can be enjoyed even during the hottest summer days. From installing cooling water features and outdoor kitchens to planting shade trees and designing pergola-covered patios, our team understands how to work with Colorado's unique climate.

With 60 years of experience serving Fort Collins and the surrounding areas, Bath Landscape & Irrigation combines sustainable practices with innovative design to create outdoor spaces that beat the heat while conserving water. Our expertise in native plantings, efficient irrigation systems, and hardscape installation ensures your summer oasis remains beautiful and functional for years.

Don't let summer heat keep you from enjoying Northern Colorado's beautiful outdoors. Whether creating a backyard retreat or preparing for summer adventures, staying cool and safe ensures you'll make the most of the season. Contact us at Bath Landscape & Irrigation today to start planning your perfect outdoor living space that provides comfort and style all summer long.