Here’s why you should put Grand Lake at the top of your list when planning your summer vacation to Colorado.
You’ll never run out of things to do on the waters of Grand Lake.
Where lakes in Colorado are concerned, Grand Lake happens to be the largest natural one in the state. As the weather heats up, that’s your cue to cool off with various aquatic activities. Grand Lake Marina has you covered for boat rentals, whether you choose to cruise in a pontoon or fishing boat. For a slower pace, explore the lake by kayak, canoe, pedal boat or stand-up paddleboard. No matter your vessel, the lake is a perfect place to drop a fishing line in search of kokanee salmon and several types of trout.
Spend a relaxing afternoon on the sandy shores of the Grand Lake beach, where you can kick back and watch sailboats glide to and from the nearby private Grand Lake Yacht Club. The beach is also ideal for swimming and splashing around. Another spot on the water’s edge is the picturesque Point Park, where you’ll find fishing access, picnic sites and an amazing view of Mount Craig — aka Mount Baldy to locals. On the Fourth of July, catch the largest display of fireworks in Colorado as they burst over the lake, brilliantly reflecting off the water.
Classic mountain lodging boasts only-in-Colorado views.
With the backdrop of a national forest and an alpine lake at your front step, you’re guaranteed to have amazing scenery anywhere you choose to rest your head. For a quintessential mountain experience, check out the wide array of places to stay in Grand Lake.
Grand Lake Lodge sits just outside the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and has an on-site restaurant, event space, pool and multiple lodging options (like cabins and bungalows) nestled among pine trees. To be close to the action, you can’t beat Western Riviera Lakeside Lodging — Grand Lake’s only lakefront hotel property. For a true cabin experience with modern amenities that will have you feeling right at home, Lupine Village at Grand Lake sits just two blocks from the lake, but feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds. You’ll be within walking distance of all the shops, restaurants and activities. If you’re looking for family-friendly accomodations, Winding River Resort and Elk Creek Campground offer plenty of room to play.
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The town of Grand Lake will keep you entertained with cultural attractions, mini-golf, off-road rentals and more.
The town of Grand Lake may only be one square mile, but that mile is packed with activities the whole family will enjoy. The Grand Lake boardwalk along Grand Avenue dates to 1881, and you can still admire its Wild West-style architecture complete with hitching posts — and the occasional horse hitched to them. Explore more than 60 local shops, galleries, restaurants and watering holes as you stroll.
Listen as live music floats from saloons throughout town or catch a show at the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre. Its full schedule of musical performances in the summer brings Broadway to the mountains. Weekends feel like summer camp for adults with Bingo in the Park held every Friday and Saturday evening in Town Park. The season is full of unique events including Fourth of July fireworks, arts-and-crafts fairs and the famous Buffalo Days.
Tap into Grand Lake’s wide variety of dining options. Dig into casual barbecue at Sagebrush BBQ & Grill, unwind at a picnic table overlooking the lake at Miyauchi's Snack Bar & Homemade Ice Cream and savor mouthwatering Mexican at Charlie’s Sports Bar & Grill. Find elegant riverside dining at the Historic Rapids Restaurant or celebrate a special occasion at Huntington House Tavern. And that’s just naming a few of the Grand Lake restaurants you’ll have to choose from.