Dotted with lakes and surrounded by mountain peaks, Grand Lake is a picturesque summer destination. Getting here is part of the adventure—just hop in the car and hit the road. The scenic routes leading to this charming mountain town are just as breathtaking as the destination itself, so fill up the tank, set your GPS, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip.
The Best Drives to Grand Lake
Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road—the highest continuous paved road in the United States—reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet as it weaves 48 miles from Estes Park, through Rocky Mountain National Park, to Grand Lake. Drivers roll by aspen and ponderosa pine trees, which give way to fir and spruce forests, and then the treeless alpine tundra. The route is only open from around Memorial Day to mid-October, and timed-entry reservations are required to enter RMNP during that time, even for pass-through traffic.
Pit Stop: Favorite stretch-your-legs spots include Milner Pass/Poudre Lake, where you can take in the Continental Divide, and the Medicine Bow Curve Overlook, which fronts the snowcapped Never Summer mountain range.
Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway
Grand Lake is actually the northern end of this 80-mile route, which traces the Colorado River from its origin in Rocky Mountain National Park southwest to State Bridge. Those destined for Grand Lake can join the roadway after passing through Granby.
Pit Stop: Stretch your legs on a paddleboard, cast a line at Shadow Mountain Reservoir, or take a short walk beside Windy Gap Reservoir, where waterfowl, including osprey, are prevalent.
Plan the Perfect Road Trip in Colorado
Visitors leaving from Denver should expect a drive of just over two hours to reach Grand Lake. Follow I-70 west to exit 232 for US-40 west toward Empire/Granby. Grab a cone at the family-owned Empire Dairy King before heading up the winding Berthoud Pass. You’ll come down to the other side in Winter Park, where there are plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy.
Continue through Granby to US-34 East. Lake Granby and Shadow Mountain Reservoir will appear out the window before Grand Lake rises into view. Coming from Boulder or a resort town? There’s a route to follow—guaranteed viewpoints, and maybe even wildlife, along the way.
Helpful Tips for Your Grand Lake Drive
Summer and fall are prime road trip seasons thanks to cooler high-elevation temperatures and, starting in mid-September, the leaves dazzling in golds and oranges. Winter offers plenty of recreation opportunities, but drivers should be comfortable navigating in snowy conditions. You can visit the COTrip website, which offers up-to-date information on traffic conditions and weather.
Mountain roads and passes can be windy, steep, and narrow. Slow down, maintain a safe following distance, and be on the lookout for wildlife. The weather in the mountains changes rapidly, so be prepared for a variety of conditions. If you’re driving in unfamiliar areas, download a map ahead of time, as cell service may be limited.
Ready to plan your Colorado road trip to Grand Lake? Explore ideas for where to stay—whether you prefer a tent or a rustic lodge—and what to do once you get here. We’ve got everything you need to map out an unforgettable escape.
