Are you and your family in need of a peaceful retreat? If you’re seeking a getaway with both relaxation and adventure, I have some great ideas for what to do in Grand Lake, Colorado. This idyllic mountain town in Grand County offers plenty of activities for both adrenaline seekers and those of us just looking to unwind. Reconnect with your family immersed in nature with these 17 things to do in Grand Lake, CO.
Getting to Grand Lake, Colorado
By car, Grand Lake is easily accessible from Denver, Colorado. It is approximately 100 miles, between the two cities. Drive west on Interstate 70, passing through the charming mountain towns of Idaho Springs and Georgetown. Exit onto US-40 West at exit 232, which guides you through stunning mountain passes and alongside the meandering Colorado River until you reach Grand Lake.
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Grand Lake is nestled within the Rocky Mountain National Park at an elevation of 8,369 feet. Always check road conditions when driving in the mountains as conditions can change quickly.
Without further ado, here’s the ultimate list of things to do in Grand Lake, CO.
Note: If you have a 4th grader, access the Rocky Mountain National Park with the Every Kid Outdoors Program.
#1 Snow In July In Rocky Mountain National Park
How about a snowball fight in July? Drive up the winding Trail Ridge Road for an amazing experience. Sitting at 12,324 feet, this view of the continental divide is only a glimpse at the vast Rocky Mountains that stretch from Canada to Mexico.
Trail Ridge Road connects Grand Lake, Co and Estes Park, Co. Although it is just 48 miles long, expect this trip to take 2 hours or more. is generally closed in the winter time, but the Park Service tries to open it back up in early spring. The roads are mountainous and winding with few guard rails. The Alpine Visitor Center’s webcam is a good way to see the area virtually.
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#2 Holzworth Ranch inside the Rocky Mountain National Park
A short hike from the main parking area takes one back to the era of the early West. The ranch was established in 1917 by John Holzworth Sr., after prohibition forced him to close his family-run saloons in Denver. Visit the original log cabins and outbuildings that have been lovingly preserved while marveling at the picturesque setting, with the Never Summer Mountains in the distance.
The ranch, set up just like the family was still living there and entertaining guests, gives children a real vision of how homesteaders lived in the Colorado wilderness. Be sure to find out when the Ranger tours happen and make plans to see the ice house. You don’t want to miss it!
# 3 Historic Grand Lake Lodge
My boys and I played hooky on the first day of school one year and took ourselves to Rocky Mountain National Park for the day. Late in the afternoon, after a long hike and young male moose sightings, we were hungry and tired but not ready to give up the grandeur of the park just yet. Calling my husband to join us, we settled ourselves at a porch table in Grand Lake Lodge overlooking the town of Grand Lake.
“America’s Front Porch” is the slogan of Grand Lake Lodge and we soon found out why. Shortly after dinner, my sons asked if they could go explore. After we settled the check and headed out the door we found them both sitting on the porch stroking a large “Lassie” dog talking with a couple from Texas.
With the warm sun still shining on the pine porch floor and a belly full of good food, my husband and I both sat down and visited a spell with our newfound friends and their collie. Time stood still as the couple rocked on the porch swing swapping stories about Texas and Colorado like old friends just dropping in for a visit.
#4 The Beach at Grand Lake
“All Colorado really needs is a beach,” a tourist said to me while riding up on a ski lift. “Say no more,” I said, “Come back and visit the Beach at Grand Lake this summer.” This wondrous little scrap of sand on Grand Lake, just a block off the town boardwalk offers an awesome beach experience.
On the not-too-hot days of a Colorado Mountain summer, watch the sailboats tack back and forth in the wind, rent a paddle boat, or try your hand at water skiing in the crisp mountain runoff that fills the lake. Although the water remains pretty chilly even in August, many brave youngsters, mine included, swim, build sand castles, and eat ice cream on the Beach at Grand Lake.
#5 Homemade Ice Cream: Miyauchi’s Snack Bar
My then kindergarten son came home all excited one day saying, “Mom, one of my kindergarten teachers owns an ice cream shop and we get to go there this summer!”
It’s true this landmark ice cream shop was started 30 years ago by a teacher with a little spare time in the summer. Grab a burger and fries with yummy homemade ice cream while you stroll the beach. Ice cream flavors change frequently so it is hard to pick a favorite. That just means you need to go back to Miyauchi’s Snack Bar the next day, too, and try a different flavor!
#6 Rocky Hi-Speed Chase
Every Father’s Day we have a tradition. Take Dad, Go Karting! The Rocky-Hi Speed Way in Grand Lake features a twisty track with the possibility of a few snow flurries even in June.
Just a hint, always stay to the inside with a heavy foot on the pedal and watch out for the guy with the water bucket as you round the second turn.
#7 See a Broadway Show
Who knew that sensational Broadway hits can be found in the little hamlet of Grand Lake? A professional summer stock group gathers each year to perform such hits as Mama Mia, Shrek, Newsies, and other top Broadway musicals.
The Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre also offers a professional theatre camp to local children. Celebrating 50 years of service to the Grand County community, a new 5.2 million theatre space makes this the rival of any metropolitan theatre experience.
#8 Riding Horses in the Rockies
Few things are as beautiful as seeing the Rocky Mountains while horseback riding. Winding River Resort is one of the few outfitters with a license to enter the pristine park on horseback. Winding up through the trails and streams on horseback gives you a view you can’t get from the car. Who knows, a moose sighting might even be in your future.
#9 Hiking Near Grand Lake, CO
Grand Lake offers a plethora of beautiful hiking trails with stunning views, birding opportunities, and wildlife sightings. Just remember weather conditions can always change in the Rocky Mountains so be sure to have water, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and dress in layers.
Adams Falls Trail
One of the must-visit hiking trails for families in Grand Lake is the Adams Falls Trail. It is accessed from the East Inlet Trailhead just outside of Grand Lake. Follow the well-marked path through towering pine trees to reach the waterfall.
AllTrails is a free mobile app and website with detailed, hand-curated trail maps, along with crowd-sourced reviews and photos. With 300,000+ trails, users can filter to find the route that’s right for them.
Upgrade to the PRO version for offline maps and more.
East Shore Trail
For a leisurely lakeside stroll that offers panoramic views, head out to the East Shore Trail which is open year-round. The loop around Shadow Mountain Lake is about 5 miles and is considered relatively easy. It is mostly flat and well-maintained. Occasionally, this area is closed due to habitat and wildlife protection efforts. Check the National Park Service’s Raptor closures website for up-to-date information.
#10 Grand Lake Art Walk
Personally, I love it when towns celebrate their local artisans. In the summer months, Grand Lake hosts art and craft shows. Even if you miss the craft shows, stop in to visit local art shops and galleries along the historic boardwalk of Grand Lake.
#11 Whitewater River Rafting
Guided whitewater rafting tours offer a thrilling way to explore the area’s scenic waterways. Professional guides ensure your safety on the Colorado River while providing expert knowledge about the local ecosystem and history. Tours are available for all ages and levels of daring.
#12 Snowmobiling
In the winter, Grand Lake, Colorado receives 10+ feet of snow every year. This is great for you winter sports lovers, especially snowmobilers. Always follow local recommendations and advice. For your safety, I recommend taking an avalanche course and always traveling on approved snowmobile areas.
#13 Ice Fishing
With its proximity to lakes, the Grand Lake area is perfect for ice fishing as well. Because weather conditions can change rapidly, always test ice conditions. Varieties of trout and kokanee salmon are stocked in the lakes, including Lake Granby.
#14 Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular things to do in Grand Lake, Colorado. You can rent equipment from outfitters in town if you don’t have your own. The winter is an opportune time for wildlife viewing as well.
#15 4th of July at Grand Lake, CO
You have to time this Grand Lake activity just right, but it’s worth it if you can be there over the 4th of July. Fireworks explode over the lakes celebrating America’s Independence Day. It’s supposed to be one of the largest fireworks displays in Colorado! They can be seen from all over the town and are reported to last about 30 minutes.
#16 Boating
Grand Lake, which is adjacent to the Arapahoe National Forest, is the deepest natural lake in Colorado. Along with Shadow Mountain and Granby Lake, there are ample opportunities for boating. Rent a paddleboat, pontoon, or fishing boat if you don’t have one of your own, and spend the day out on the water.
#17 Bird Watching
Due to the rugged landscape and high elevations, Grand Lake has some of the best birdwatching. Bring your binoculars and start a bird list with the 280 species of birds in the area.
You’ll find plenty of things to do in Grand Lake, Colorado if your family is seeking a memorable and fulfilling vacation. With its breathtaking natural landscapes, variety of outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions, Grand Lake is the perfect place for adventure and relaxation. Let me know your favorite things to do there, and post pics on our social media channels. I love to see what my readers are up to.
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