Explore Serene Park County: Fairplay, Bailey & Lake George

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The Park County towns of Fairplay, Bailey and Lake George are packed with scenic vistas, meandering streams and placid rivers, historic sites and friendly places to eat and commune with the locals.

A few tips:
• Prime leaf-peeping is in September
• Check restaurant schedules, as some are closed in the winter or during weekdays
• Visit natural areas during the week to get some alone time with nature

Sustainability Activity
How to Give Back to These Special Places

The South Park National Heritage Area frequently seeks volunteers to help with their geo-tour maintenance and other projects.

Day
1
staunton state park-scenic photo
Activity
Staunton State Park
Staunton is Colorado's newest state park, offering breathtaking views, rich Colorado history, diverse plant and wildlife, rock climbing and…
Insider's Tip
Hike to Elk Falls

This moderate hike within the park is an excellent route for spotting elk on the way to the waterfalls. Pack plenty of water and energy — it's 10 miles long round trip! Learn more >>

Lunch
Coney Island Boardwalk
Serving as much local Colorado as we can get, Continental Sausage, Elevation Ketchup, Merf's Mustard, Rocky Mountain Soda Company, local meat and…
Activity
Aspen Peak Cellars
Visit Aspen Peak Cellars for a winery tour and sample our award winning wines at our beautiful tasting room. Whether you enjoy a glass of our…
Dinner
Aspen Peak Cellars
Visit Aspen Peak Cellars for a winery tour and sample our award winning wines at our beautiful tasting room. Whether you enjoy a glass of our…
Activity
Bailey Ranch & Saddle Museum
The museum is filled with saddles, Western memorabilia, buggies, antique cars, signs, and much more. For children there is a merry go round, slide…
Lodging
Lynwood Park
Our sprawling log lodge is wrapped by a whispering forest and the South Platte River, and a trout pond. Just feet from these waters, our rooms,…
Day
2
Breakfast
The Shaggy Sheep
Fresh and healthy sandwiches and salads to keep you fueled up and full. Perfect portions for apres ski carnitas, a post-hike burger, or maybe light,…
Activity
Hike Limber Grove Trail

This 1.5-mile hike runs beside ancient pine trees gnarled and twisted by mountain livin'.

Lunch
Silver Scoop Creamery
The Silver Scoop offers hand-made sandwiches and homemade pastries as well as a variety of ice cream served in old-fashioned glassware.
Activity
South Park City Museum
19th century mining town in 21st century Colorado. Over 40 original buildings and 60,000 artifacts that depict boom town life.
Dinner
Millonzi Delicatessen & Restaurant
Full Service Bar with Flat screen, Affordable Wine List. Fun Casual atmosphere, Large outdoor deck overlooks the Mosquito Range, Mediterranean …
Activity
South Park Brewing
We are a brewery and taproom located in Fairplay. We are the only brewery in Park County and offer pub-style food and 10 beers on draft.
Lodging
The Fairplay-Valiton Hotel
This historic hotel, established in 1873 but updated with modern amenities, packs a punch of cozy charm.
Day
3
Breakfast
Java Moose
World-famous beakfast burritos, pastries, bagels, paninis and more. Kick back and relax in an intimate, casual atmosphere.
Activity
11 Mile Marina
Boat and equipment rentals, fishing-guide services and more at Eleven Mile State Park. 
Activity
Explore More of the Area

Drive through the stunning Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area. The dirt road used to be a railroad bed and runs under a canopy of large shade trees.

Dinner
Grill Out, Snack on S'mores & Tuck In for the Night

Mountain River Lodge is the ideal stop for the evening. Their scenic patio awaits grilling enthusiasts for alfresco dining, providing gas and charcoal grills and a fully stocked food-prep area. Once you're done savoring dinner, gather round to fire roast some s'mores before grabbing a room at the lodge for the night.

Insider's Tip
Plan to Picnic

Have your lunch in the Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area.

Lodging
Mountain River Lodge
Scenic views overlooking Lake George. Fish the South Platte River or nearby Eleven Mile, Spinny, Tarryall or Antero Reservoirs. Pike National…