A charming lakeside mountain town featuring a historic boardwalk and easy access to the unspoiled terrain of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Set along the edge of the body of water with which it shares its name, Grand Lake is a popular choice for outdoorsy travellers. Not only does it sit next to the largest natural lake in Colorado, but it also serves as the western gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park. Come in winter for snowshoeing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, or plan a summer trip to go hiking, biking, boating, fishing and wildlife-watching.
Stroll along the town’s historic boardwalk, which dates back to the Wild West days and features shops, restaurants and galleries. Head to the Grand Lake Marinato rent boats and paddleboards to take out on the water. Also of note at the lakeshore is the Grand Lake Yacht Club, which at 8,366 feet (2,550 metres), is touted as being the highest-altitude yacht club in the world. Visitors who want to take it easy can lounge away sunny summer days at the Beach at Grand Lake.
In colder months, Grand Lake transforms into a snow sports hub. A vast network of groomed snowmobile trails crisscross the Arapaho National Recreation Area adjacent to the town. Rent cross-country skis, snowshoes and sleds at the Grand Lake Nordic Centre and slide along the 22 miles (35 kilometres) of trails. Families will also enjoy the winter sleigh rides at the Winding River Resort.
For yet more outdoor fun, make your way to the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. Choose from abundant hiking trails, drive along the scenic Trail Ridge Road and try to spot wildlife, such as elk and bighorn sheep.
Spend some time enjoying the cultural activities on offer in the town itself. During summer, explore the Kauffman House Museum, which is in a historic log building dating from the 19th century that once functioned as a hotel. For evening entertainment, attend a show at the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre, whose programme is dominated by Broadway musicals.
Find Grand Lake at the western edge of Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is just over a 2-hour drive from Denver. Just a 20-minute drive away is Granby, which has an airport, a train station and a Greyhound bus stop.
