We're very lucky to live in a state and community that is so beautiful and that many people want to visit. But sometimes it's nice to get away from the tourists crawling over our neighborhoods and remember what Colorado was like in the good ole' days. Here are a couple of my favorite day trip destinations, their local attractions, some side trips, and some places to stay if one day isn't enough to enjoy these beautiful Colorado delights.
Grand Lake: Where to Go
Almost everyone has heard of Estes Park and probably visited Rocky Mountain National Park via Estes. If you've driven across Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park, then you exited RMNP at Grand Lake. If you were traveling with children, you probably stopped at the Alpine Visitor's Center at the top of Trail Ridge Road with it's gorgeous views (and bathrooms), then most likely drove by Grand Lake in a hurry to get home. :)
Grand Lake is both a town and a lake. We've stayed in Grand Lake (the town) twice. The first time was when my husband and his pal hiked from Estes Park through RMNP to Grand Lake (21 miles). I hiked Bluebird Lake Trail (12 miles), then drove across Trail Ridge Road to pick them up. We stayed at the Gateway Inn, which is a lovely lodge built to look like an upscale log home. I loved the mammoth outdoor decks and gorgeous views. You can look for availability here.
The next time we stayed in Grand Lake was for a combination of my birthday and because we needed to be out of our house (for an open house). We stayed in a rustic cabin and hiked the Shadow Mountain Fire Lookout Trail. This trail starts with a nice walk along the eastern shore of Shadow Mountain Lake, then winds up through the woods to the fire lookout (which is closed to visitors). But the view up there is quite outstanding. It is a mostly easy hike but fairly long at 9.3 miles. One reviewer said, “Took a 9 year old and 10 year old - they were able to make it with some stops.”
The historic town of Grand Lake was established in 1881 and sits at the confluence of Grand Lake (one of the most scenic alpine lakes in Colorado) and Shadow Mountain Lake, with the majestic mountains of RMNP as the backdrop. The main drag, Grand Ave (it's a very Grand place), is a nice, wide street with parking on either side that is nose-in (not parallel parking) and lined with buildings that look like they came out of a John Wayne movie complete with wooden boardwalks. They have locally-owned and operated shops, including a “wide array of clothing boutiques, art galleries, jewelry stores, antique shops, bookstores and outdoor retailers sprinkled amongst the old-fashioned ice cream parlours and candy shops.”
With Grand Lake being the deepest and largest natural lake in Colorado and connected to Shadow Mountain reservoir via a short canal, there is a plethora of water fun. The Grand Lake Marina rents pontoon boats and Boston Whalers. It also offers chartered sunset party cruises for up to 35 people. The Trail Ridge Marina on Shadow Mountain Lake rents pontoon boats, fishing boats and pleasure boats. It also offers boats tours for up to 12 people.
“If you are looking to use your arms or feet to power your own boat, a couple businesses on the lakefront offer kayak and pedal boat rentals. You'll see the glimmering gold, pink and purple pedal boats lining one of the wooden docks on Grand Lake. Pedal boats are a great way to experience the lake with kids.” More tips here.
For winter fun, Grand Lake is the “Snowmobile Capital of Colorado”, with over 300 miles of trails, 150 maintained. You can also snowshoe, cross country ski, and ice fish.
Grand Lake Side Trips
Besides the lakes, RMNP, and Winter Park, there is plenty to do near Grand Lake. The Upper Colorado River is the best whitewater rafting trip for families with young children and older adults or for anyone who wants to raft a fun, easy stretch of the river on “a scenic float trip with abundant wildlife and playful rapids.” You can go to Liquid Descent in Kremmling (50 min west on hwy 40) to join a family-fun raft trip, but advanced reservations on their website are recommended.
Fossil Ridge is just miles from Kremmling. “Did you know that the entire state of Colorado was once at the bottom of a vast, life-supporting sea? Take a trip back in time to Kremmling’s Fossil Ridge and discover the remains of the aquatic creatures who once inhabited this ancient ocean.” Stop into the BLM Kremmling Field Office at 2103 E Park Ave. in Kremmling for more information and a map to the site.
“The Gore Canyon Whitewater Park at Pumphouse is now open! Kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders, and boaters can now enjoy this Colorado River location, between the Class V expert reaches of Gore Canyon and the family friendly Class II-III reach below Pumphouse Recreation Site. This scenic area provides peace, solitude and beautiful canyon views for thousands of visitors each year. The BLM maintains river access, bathrooms, parking, and a Pumphouse Recreation Area campground. There is excellent fishing available along the river trail as well.”
Staying Overnight
The Visit Grand County website lists several good camping areas.
Check out this link for some places to stay in Grand Lake.
Make the Most of It: A Happy Place Travel Will Help Plan Your Trip
Book your trip using a local travel agent! You don't need to travel far to find adventure. Kathie with A Happy Place Travel can help you find the hidden gems no matter where you go. Schedule a time to chat with Kathie to get started on planning your getaway now. Schedule NOW!
Other "Travel Off the Beaten Path" Articles by Kathie Snyder with A Happy Place Travel
- Travel Off the Beaten Path: What to Do in Buena Vista
- Travel Off the Beaten Path: What to Do in Woodland Park
A Happy Place Travel Let's Start Planning Your Perfect Vacation Today! |
 | Kathie Snyders with A Happy Place Travel |
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