DTJ DESIGN, a multi-disciplinary architecture, planning, and landscape architecture practice, is celebrating the opening of Summit Canyon, a themed expansion at Water World in Colorado, US.
The new zone is inspired by the state's national parks and mountain landscapes and arranged around a summit-to-valley concept.
In this, the ride tower represents a mountain peak, while the visitor experience cascades through a collection of attractions, meeting spaces, and landscape areas.
Summit Canyon's ride tower represents a mountain peak, with alpine- and valley-inspired areas belowImage courtesy of DTJ DESIGN
Dave Ignatew, partner at DTJ DESIGN, says: "The goal was to create an experience that feels distinctly Colorado.
"The landscape, signage, and guest environment all work together to tell a story rooted in the region's outdoor heritage."
Considered landscape
Summit Canyon's landscape design mirrors Colorado's varying elevations, with alpine-inspired planting at the highest points and valley-inspired vegetation in the lower areas.
All selections emphasise low water use, promoting a drought-tolerant and sustainable landscape.
A central challenge for the team was to preserve several mature trees, each over 30 years old. Using innovative grading solutions and terraced walls, the design team retained these signature trees while managing major topographical changes.
Additionally, the theming across the zone is strengthened by bespoke signage inspired by U.S. National Park graphics. This helps to create a coherent identity throughout the expansion.
Key features of the major expansion include nine water slides and a 7,500-square-foot children’s play areaImage courtesy of DTJ DESIGN
Summit Canyon was delivered through close partnership between DTJ DESIGN, Proslide Technology, Aquatic Development Group (ADG), Kiowa Engineering, and park owner Hyland Hills Parks and Recreation District.
The 2.5-acre development marks the park’s biggest expansion in more than 40 years and features nine water slides, leisure and activity pools, a 7,500-square-foot children’s play zone, enhanced food and beverage options, and new opportunities for community events and programming.
Earlier this year, DTJ DESIGN announced its support for Baha Bay at Baha Mar in its bid for the Caribbean’s Leading Water Park in the 2026 World Travel Awards Caribbean Region. The luxury water park has won the title for the last four consecutive years.
