Boating & Fishing

Can you think of a better way to spend a day in Grand Lake … after all, it’s called Grand Lake for a reason!

It’s our namesake and our favorite lake – Grand Lake! Sitting at an elevation of 8,369 feet above sea level, Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest natural lake and is the headwaters for the famous Colorado River. While the lake is open for year round recreation, generations of mountain loving families have flocked to its shores in the summer months.

Boating – It wouldn’t be summer in Grand Lake without seeing the water speckled with pontoons, sailboats and classic wooden boats. Boats can be put in at the Grand Lake Boat Ramp, located on Portal Road by the Adams Falls Trailhead. Boaters can also launch at the Green Ridge Ramp or Stillwater Ramp in Shadow Mountain Reservoir and take the canal under Rainbow Bridge to access Grand Lake. And yes – you can watch fireworks from your boat, but expect a long line at the boat ramps!

Need to rent a boat? Check out the Headwaters Marina for pontoons, or book a ride on one of their iconic hour-long boat tours. If you’d like to access Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain give Trail Ridge Marina a call – they offer a large variety of water crafts for rent and allow renters to cross through the canal to fully experience both lakes.

Kayaking – Grand Lake on Kayak is like nothing else you’ve done before. Sitting low in the water, with the near silent sounds of gliding along in the water is sure to stir your soul. Kayaks can be put in on the public docks at Gene Stover Park, or you can rent one from our friends at Mountain Paddler’s Kayak Shak!

Fishing – Fishing from the town beach or a pontoon boat is a great way to spend a few hours in Grand Lake. A Colorado fishing license is required for anglers over the age of 12, and can be purchased at Beacon Landing Marina on Lake Granby or at Kirk’s Flyshop in Grand Lake, Colorado. Popular off shore fishing spots include the Gene Stover Lakefront Park and public docks, or along the shores at Point Park.

Lake Granby – If you’re looking for to explore the largest of our three lakes, Lake Granby is the one for you.  There are three marinas located on Lake Granby for boat rentals, slips and tours: Indian Peaks Marina and Beacon Landing Marina. If you have your own boat, ramp access (with mussel inspection sites) can be found at both the Stillwater Campground and the Sunset Point recreation area.