Summer weather is heating up, and so is the outdoor fun. There’s plenty of adventure under the warm sun in Weston County. Hiking and biking peaceful mountain paths. Kickin’ up dust off-roading on prairie trails and cruising secluded highways on motorcycles. The enjoyment is hot; just remember to keep the sunscreen handy, take breaks, and stay well-hydrated. Don’t stop the adventure when the thermometer climbs higher – just cool things down a bit. Here are a few options to help beat the heat.

Go for a Dip

Nothing refreshes like water. If you’re not ready to give up on the sunlight, the L A K Reservoir is a nice spot to drop a fishing line or drift on a paddleboard.

Looking to make a bigger splash? There are several larger lakes and reservoirs nearby in the Black Hills National Forest. One excellent option is Wyoming’s Keyhole State Park. Less than an hour’s drive northwest, Keyhole Reservoir is massive: 13,700 acres! That’s a lot of water for you to enjoy all your favorite water activities and then some. In addition to the swimming beach, there’s great boating (and fishing), including a marina, several docks, and ramps.

Want to get your splash on a little closer to civilization? In Weston County, the towns of Newcastle and Upton both have community swimming pools. The Kozisek Aquatic Center in Newcastle offers lap and open swim times. The Upton City Pool is an outdoor pool with two sides featuring depths from 3 to 10 feet.

And, of course, some of the area hotels and motels, such as The Newcastle Lodge & Convention Center, offer pools for guests to enjoy.

Find Some Serious Shade

When the outdoor heat becomes too intense, and even the shade isn’t enough, then it’s time to escape the light and take refuge in the dark. We’re talking REALLY dark — and really deep. Just 27 minutes east of Newcastle is Jewel Cave National Monument. Jewel Cave, the second-longest in the United States, offers daily tours of its dazzling calcite-adorned passages throughout the summer. The temperature inside is 49°F / 9°C, so you’ll cool off fast — so fast that visitors are encouraged to wear long pants and a sweatshirt, sweater, or light jacket.

If a cool cave isn’t your cup of “ice” tea, maybe a dim theater will do the trick. Catch a flick at the Dogie Theater in Newcastle. It’s super clean, the prices are unbeatable, and the hometown hospitality is exceptional.

Get the Scoop

Sometimes, the best way to cool off is from the inside out. And everyone’s favorite method is — you guessed it — ICE CREAM! Get your classic chill-on at Boopa’s, a classic soda shop in the Antler’s building in Newcastle. Antler’s is also home to a host of other delicious treats, including Uncle Vito’s (a New York-style Italian Deli), Hannah’s Heavenly Treats (a bakery), and Beanit coffee shop.

Speaking of coffee, Cambria Coffee in Newcastle’s Decker’s Market serves a nearly endless variety of iced lattes, mochas, coffees, and Italian sodas.

In Upton, Remy’s Diner serves ice cream shakes and malts that are sure to cool you off — take your time and avoid brain freeze!

So, get out and enjoy the warm weather in Wide Open Weston County. And stay cool while you’re at it.