History of Grand Lake

Formed by glaciers, surrounded by Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Grand Lake has smitten tourists for generations. No one forgets Grand Lake. The lake itself is the deepest and largest natural lake in Colorado, and the area attracts an impressive diversity of wildlife.

In the mid-1800s, European hunting parties discovered Grand Lake. Some hunters constructed summer lodges and hired local mountain men as guides. The area was permanently settled in 1867. Grand Lake Village’s first full-time, year-round residents were an intriguing mix of miners (who participated in a brief mining boom) and hunting guides. In the late 1870s, silver was discovered in the rivers and mountains near Grand Lake. Prospectors bought supplies in local stores and established small mountain mining communities. Almost overnight, the town of Grand Lake transformed into a bustling economy.

Spiderhouse — Settlers outside of the Spider House

Thanks to the groundswell of new residents, Grand Lake became the county seat in 1881, though it was short-lived. Soon afterward, mines ceased operation and arguments over the placement of the county seat even led to an infamous Fourth of July shootout. Despite the bloodshed and suffering economy, some miners planted roots and settled in the area for good. They fished, boated, hiked and breathed in the pristine mountain air. For many, the experience would never be equaled. They returned year after year. To accommodate them, a flurry of small hotels were built. Hammers and saws were everywhere it seemed, as new summer homes and dude ranches kept the construction industry’s plate full. As the years passed, an increasing number of visitors braved the wagon and stagecoach trip over mountain passes to enjoy glorious Grand Lake summers.

While nature provided the perfect backdrop for tourists, it was the personality of locals who defined the area – hardy, resourceful and eccentric people. Locals gained renown for inventing and replicating city-folk creature comforts. What couldn’t be hand-crafted was brought in by wagon.

homestead cabin — An original cabin near RMNP

Though separated from what many called civilization, Grand Lake apparently missed the memo, establishing a Yacht Club in 1902 and the historic Kauffman House and museum in 1892., Today, the Village of Grand Lake maintains its historic charm. Keen observers will observe the area’s trademark architectural design, called “mountain rustic” The style remains popular among local homes, restaurants and stores.

Through all of its history one thing has remained steadfast - people continue to be drawn to Grand Lake and all of the amazing surroundings that make our amazing village a popular place to make memories with the people you love!

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History of Grand Lake

Learn more about Grand Lake’s History from the Grand Lake Area Historical Society

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