Meet Gracie: Making Waves at the Boulder Reservoir

If you’ve wandered over to the Boulder Reservoir on a hot summer day, you’ve likely witnessed the joy of dogs in their element—diving, splashing, and soaking up the good life. And today, our Dog of the Day is a true star of the scene: Gracie, caught in an epic mid-shake photo with water flying in all directions and sunshine glinting off every droplet. It’s the kind of shot that makes you stop and smile.

Gracie is a regular at the Reservoir, where the wide-open space and fresh water make it one of Boulder’s best swimming spots for dogs. On any given day, you’ll find a happy pack of pups playing fetch, paddling across the shallows, or, in Gracie’s case, striking a dramatic pose during the all-important post-swim shake.

Photo credit: Sherrie Stille

Dogs and water just go together, especially in Boulder. Maybe it’s the mountain air or the abundance of dog-friendly access points—but there’s something magical about watching a dog splash into the water, tail wagging and spirit unleashed. For Gracie, it’s not just about cooling off—it’s a full-on celebration of summer.

Beyond the Boulder Reservoir, here are a few more of Boulder’s top dog swimming holes:

• Coot Lake – Just across from the Reservoir, this off-leash favorite is perfect for early morning swims and muddy shoreline zoomies.

• Boulder Creek – Running right through town, this stretch of cool flowing water has plenty of gentle spots for dogs to dip in.

• Twin Lakes – A local gem in North Boulder, often filled with four-legged swimmers and friendly faces.

• South Mesa Trail water crossings – Ideal for dogs who like to hike before they splash, with several shady creek crossings along the trail.

What makes water time so special for dogs like Gracie? It’s the freedom, the movement, the sensation of it all. There’s no agenda—just pure, tail-thumping happiness. And in a town like Boulder, where the outdoors is a way of life, it’s only fitting that our dogs get to enjoy it too.

Coot Lake, Boulder, Colorado – Elevation 5,167 ft: A top destination for dogs, Coot Lake offers off-leash freedom, scenic views, and the perfect spot for a refreshing swim.

So here’s to Gracie, shaking off summer in the most spectacular way. Whether you’re a Boulder local or just visiting, take a page from her playbook: jump in, shake it off, and enjoy the splash.

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