150 YEARS OF GRAND COUNTY, COLORADO
Grand County has long been a coveted tourism destination for its outdoor recreation offerings–ever since the area’s earliest peoples convened in the Kawuneeche Valley each summer to bask in the alpine air and race their horses under the towering, snow-capped peaks of a landscape that is now encompassed by Rocky Mountain National Park. Once motor vehicles became widely available, throngs of tourists traveled to Grand County to partake in scenic drives and healing soaks in its mineral-rich waters.
Although the activities have evolved over the years, Grand County remains a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking the soul-stirring respite of mountain life. According to the Grand County Tourism Board, visitors contribute an average of $1,576,986 per day in Grand County, generating sales tax used to benefit and enrich our local towns, residents and overall community. This year, Grand County celebrates 150 years of outdoor sports, creative culture, historical traditions and unparalleled scenery. Come celebrate with us by honoring the old and checking out what’s new in Grand County’s distinct districts.
Grand Lake
Most people who visit Grand Lake for the first time are surprised to learn that there are actually three lakes in the area, meaning that boating and paddling are one of the top things to do in the summertime. After strolling the boardwalk, visiting RMNP to hike it's time to get out on the water! Make your boat rental reservations early to ensure you get a chance to experience Grand Lake’s scenery from the water, a unique perspective that you won’t soon forget!
Located on Shadow Mountain Lake off highway 34, the Trail Ridge Marina has everything you need for an amazing lake adventure from pontoon boats and fishing charters to kayaks and fishing gear, not to mention a marina shop for necessities like sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and souvenirs. The on-site “Trail Ridge Tavern” bar welcomes boaters back to the dock to enjoy a lake-themed cocktail and live music after a long day on the water. Their Tiki Boats are decked out with colorful chairs and tropical decor–the perfect outing for groups of up to 10 people! If you prefer
Granby
Located at the epicenter of Grand County, Granby is the perfect jumping off point for exploring the outdoors. It is home to Sun Outdoors, Grand County’s largest campground and RV Park, complete with modern amenities like an outdoor pool and arcade, as well as the Granby Ranch resort boasting skiing, golfing, hiking, mountain biking and more. The downtown district is lined with shops and restaurants, as well as the Never Summer Brewing Company. A visit to the Moffat Railroad Museum offers a glimpse into a bygone era, while a stop at Troublesome Tomahawks promises modern thrills.
Visit Destination Granby for More Information
Visit The Hot Sulphur Chamber for More Information
Hot Sulphur Springs
This tiny town serves as the county seat and is chock-full of historical landmarks and accolades. For starters, Hot Sulphur Springs is situated along the Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway, a stunning route showcasing vibrant Cottonwood trees swaying alongside the river, sprawling ranch land dotted with livestock and the towering cliffs of Byers Canyon. The town’s main attraction is the Hot Springs Resort, a hillside collection of natural pools first frequented by Native Americans for their rejuvenating mineral content. The Pioneer Village Museum is housed in the original Hot Sulphur Springs Schoolhouse building, built in 1924, where visitors will discover early tools and clothing of Grand County inhabitants, ancient artifacts discovered in the area and information about the town’s involvement in the development of the Colorado ski industry on display.
Kremmling
Located on the western-most edge of Grand County, the town of Kremmling has historic roots in ranching and agriculture, and is a popular destination for hunting, whitewater rafting and camping thanks to a plethora of public land access. High Country Tours provides guided trips on ATVs and snowmobiles for those that aren’t familiar with the terrain, while AVA Rafting offers family-friendly float trips on the Upper Colorado River as well as zipline and fly-fishing fun.
Visit The Kremmling Chamber for More Information
Winter Park & Fraser
Winter Park is the place to be for thrilling alpine adventures. Here you can explore miles of mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels, zoom down a winding alpine slide or discover stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys on picturesque hiking routes–all in the same day! Afterwards, head downtown for an epic apres scene, where you’ll find a mouth-watering selection of restaurants, cocktail lounges, cafes and outdoor patios to refuel with a hearty meal or sip a creative libation made with locally-crafted spirits.
The Fraser Valley Metropolitan Recreation District offers tons of family-friendly activities like swimming and climbing at the Grand Park Community Rec Center, outdoor sports courts and playground at the Icebox Sports Complex and bowling and movies at the Foundry Cinema & Bowl–all of which are accessible via a leisurely bike ride on the Fraser River Trail, dotted with public artworks and offering amazing views of the surrounding mountain landscape. Fraser is also home to two breweries and a distillery in its downtown district making for the perfect pub crawl.