Parks #23 in Golden, Colorado

The Splash at Fossil Trace

4.5 · 372 reviews
Lively and family-centric
The Splash at Fossil Trace, 3151 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401
Interesting facts
1

The park is situated near the Fossil Trace Golf Club, where actual Triceratops footprints are preserved in the rock layers of the course.

2

The facility was specifically designed with a 'dinosaur' theme to match the significant paleontological findings discovered during the development of the surrounding land.

3

The zero-depth entry design allows for gradual access to the water, functioning as a beach-style shore for younger swimmers.

4

The water features include two distinct slides, which are the primary focal point for older children and teenagers visiting the park.

Overview

The Splash at Fossil Trace is a municipal outdoor aquatic facility located in Golden, Colorado, featuring a unique dinosaur-themed aesthetic reflecting the local paleontology of the Fossil Trace area. The park includes a zero-depth entry pool, two large water slides, and an interactive sandy beach play area designed for young children. Built in collaboration with the adjacent Fossil Trace Golf Club, the facility integrates into the city's broader recreational landscape. The park is managed by the City of Golden and serves as a primary summer destination for families looking for localized swimming and recreational water play. It is situated on a landscaped property that emphasizes family-oriented amenities over high-intensity thrill rides.

Photo spot

From the edge of the zero-depth beach entry area, capturing the slides with the Golden foothills in the background.

Insider tips

Bring your own shade gear or arrive early, as shaded seating areas under umbrellas or trees fill up quickly during peak heat.

Check the official city website for 'weather-related closure' policies before driving, as the facility closes during lightning or cold snaps.

Consider bringing water shoes, as the concrete pool deck can become extremely hot under the Colorado sun.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to visit outside of the summer season, as the facility is strictly an outdoor pool and remains closed for the majority of the year.

Good to know

Open only during the summer season; typically closes for the year in late August or early September.

Etiquette

Appropriate swim attire is strictly required; outside alcohol and glass containers are prohibited on the premises.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in mid-summer to avoid maximum weekend capacity.
Address
The Splash at Fossil Trace, 3151 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401
39.735, -105.209
Get directions
Details
AmenitiesWater slides, zero-depth entry pool, and sandy beach area
Shade & Rest AreasLimited grassy areas and umbrella-covered seating available

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in mid-summer to avoid maximum weekend capacity..

From the edge of the zero-depth beach entry area, capturing the slides with the Golden foothills in the background.

Close by you'll find Lookout Mountain Park, The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, Downtown Golden.