DTJ DESIGN Unveils “Summit Canyon” at Colorado’s Water World
FEDERAL HEIGHTS, CO – DTJ DESIGN, the renowned multi-disciplinary firm specializing in architecture, planning, and landscape architecture, has officially celebrated the opening of “Summit Canyon,” a transformative new expansion at Colorado’s iconic Water World.
The 2.5-acre development represents the largest addition to the park in over four decades, reimagining the guest experience through a thematic lens inspired by the state’s rugged mountain landscapes and national park heritage.
A Journey from Peak to Valley
The design philosophy behind Summit Canyon is built upon a “summit-to-valley” concept. The ride tower serves as a metaphorical mountain peak, from which the guest experience cascades downward through a series of attractions, social meeting spaces, and immersive landscape zones.
“The goal was to create an experience that feels distinctly Colorado,” says Dave Ignatew, a partner at DTJ DESIGN. “The landscape, signage, and guest environment all work together to tell a story rooted in the region’s outdoor heritage.”
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
The project’s landscape design is as functional as it is aesthetic, mirroring Colorado’s natural topography. DTJ DESIGN incorporated high-elevation, alpine-inspired plantings at the top of the “mountain,” transitioning to lush, valley-inspired vegetation at the base. Crucially, the entire plant palette was selected for low water usage, ensuring the attraction remains sustainable and drought-tolerant.
One of the project’s most significant technical challenges—and triumphs—involved the preservation of several mature, 30-year-old trees on the site. Through the use of innovative grading techniques and carefully engineered terraced walls, the design team successfully retained these signature trees while simultaneously managing the complex topographical changes required for the new water slides and pools.
A Coherent Guest Experience
To unify the expansion, the design team implemented bespoke signage inspired by classic U.S. National Park graphics. This visual identity, combined with the intentional landscape design, creates a cohesive narrative that guides visitors through the new zone.
The expansion is packed with high-energy amenities, featuring:
- Nine new water slides
- A 7,500-square-foot children’s play area
- Expansive leisure and activity pools
- Enhanced food and beverage venues
- New programming spaces for community events
A Collaborative Achievement
The successful delivery of this major expansion was the result of a close-knit partnership between DTJ DESIGN and several industry leaders, including Proslide Technology, Aquatic Development Group (ADG), Kiowa Engineering, and the park’s owner, the Hyland Hills Parks and Recreation District.
This latest project continues DTJ DESIGN’s momentum in the global attractions sector. Earlier this year, the firm highlighted its design contributions to Baha Bay at Baha Mar, which has maintained its status as the “Caribbean’s Leading Water Park” for four consecutive years. With Summit Canyon, DTJ DESIGN has once again proven its ability to craft context-led destinations that resonate deeply with local audiences while setting a new standard for regional water parks.
