Cool canyons

Cool off

Big Thompson Canyon. The entrance is on U.S. 34 just west of Loveland. For maps and information on fishing and hiking, call the Roosevelt National Forest (970/498-2770). Colorado Cherry Company (10 1/4 miles west of Lake Loveland; 1024 Big Thompson Canyon Rd./U.S. 34; 888/526-6535); Trail Ridge Winery (4113 W. Eisenhower Blvd./U.S. 34, Loveland; 970/635-0949); Viestenz-Smith Mountain Park (4 miles west of the Dam Store at the entrance to Big Thompson Canyon; www.ci.loveland.co.us or 970/962-2727).

Eldorado Canyon State Park. The park is about 8 miles southwest of Boulder. Take State 93 south from Boulder, turn right on State 170, and continue about 4 miles to the park entrance. $6 per vehicle. 9 Kneale Rd., Eldorado Springs; http://parks.state.co.us or 303/494-3943.

Waterton Canyon Recreation Area. From State 470 in Littleton, take Wadsworth Blvd. (State 121) south, following signs about 4 miles to Waterton Canyon. Call Denver Water (303/979-4129) for a brochure. You can also stop in at the South Platte Visitor Information Center (9307 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Littleton; 303/979-4120). For area wildlife information, call the Pike National Forest/South Platte Ranger District (303/275-5610).