Spring time in Grand Lake, Colorado

While some lament that Spring in the Rockies is just “mud season,” there are still so many special opportunities to enjoy Grand Lake and the surrounding area in the April and May before the Summer visitors arrive. It’s important to note that many businesses close during this season, especially early in the week. Make sure to plan accordingly, and stop in the Visitor’s Center at the entrance to town for up to date information on local business.

Temp: 60F/20F

Time of Year: March-May

Perks: Temperatures start warming up, but we may still have snow on the ground. More room to explore before the summer crowds find the trails.

Pack list: Bring layers to accommodate both warm and cold temperatures, along with waterproof boots! It isn’t unusual to start a hike just fine, but then encounter snow and ice. Be prepared to walk on snow by packing or purchasing traction, such as spikes or tracks for your boots.

Animal Spotting

As the locals like to say, in Grand Lake you’ll see a Moose per day in May! Spring is an excellent time for animal spotting, as many are migrating back to the area after spending the winter away. Osprey, eagle, pelicans, and hummingbirds arrive from the south and bears, mountain lions, and foxes come out of their dens. Book a tour with Kaiyote Eco-Tours to learn more about our animal communities that are most visible in spring with their experienced private guides.

Fishing

 Cast your lines in the rivers and lakes around town to catch trout, salmon, and more! Fly fish on the Colorado River or fish from a boat out on Lake Granby. Hire a guide to learn all the local tips and flies that will attract your next catch, and be sure to secure your Colorado fishing license ahead of time either in town or online.

Explore Grand County

There’s more to Grand Lake than downtown, and spring is a great time to explore more in Grand County. Discover natural hot springs, learn more about the Colorado River at the Headwaters Center, or head to Granby and Winter Park for late season spring skiing.

Troublesome Stories

 Learn more about the wildfire that blazed through Grand Lake in October of 2020 by stopping by the exhibit in the Grand Lake Visitor’s Center. The exhibit displays professional photographs documenting the impact of the East Troublesome Fire on the Grand Lake community from ignition to the first year anniversary, with related artifacts and stories. The exhibit won Best in Grand in 2021 and our community is proud to continue to use it as a tool to explain the importance of wildfire prevention.

Take A Tour

Spring into action with a tour by Dave Lively Tours and Talks! As a relative of a few of the original homesteaders of Rocky Mountain National Park and as a certified guide, Dave’s knowledge of the park is unmatched. Experiencing the park through his tours will be one you never forget and connect you to the landscape in ways you wouldn’t be able to access from just books and signage alone.

Hiking

As the snow melts and the temperatures rise, it’s a good time to get out on the trails. Make sure to recreate responsibly, and not trek off the path if muddy or attempt to push past deep snow when at higher elevations. Know before you go, and check resources at outfitters like Never Summer Outfitters and the Grand Lake Visitor Center for trail conditions and recommendations.