what is there to do in grand lake in the winter

Winter

• Local Snowmobile Trails During the winter months, Grand Lake transforms into a paradise for snowmobilers that attracts visitors from all over Colorado. ...
• Ice Fishing Grand Lake Grand Lake frozen over. ...
• Cross Country Skiing The Grand Lake Nordic Center contains 35 kilometers of skiing trails as well as an area for dogs and a tubing area for children. ...

Full Answer

What to do in Grand Lake in the summer?

In the summer, Grand Lake offers classic mountain activities like hiking and mountain biking, and also offers several ATV/OHV outfitters that can help you see the town in a whole new way. And with the largest natural lake in Colorado, Grand Lake's summer list wouldn't be complete without a bit of boating, sailing, or fishing.

What is Grand Lake Colorado known for?

Grand Lake is also known as the "Snowmobiling Capital of Colorado," so it's a great winter destination to satisfy your need for adrenaline or pick up a new skill. Snowmobiling isn't the only winter activity around here, though.

What to do in Grand County in the winter?

Snow Mountain Ranch and Dashing Thru the Snow have teams of Siberian and Alaskan huskies that can give you an exhilarating winter experience right here in Grand County. Bring the family, bundle up in the provided blankets and enjoy the ride! 3. Hot Air Ballooning Here's one adventure you won't soon forget — winter hot air ballooning.

How long should you stay at Grand Lake?

Or simply head out into Rocky Mountain National Park for some winter wildlife viewing in the spectacular, snow-covered wonderland. Whether you stay for a day, a week, or a lifetime, Grand Lake awaits you. Join us as we await the FIREWORKS over the lake!

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Is Grand Lake open year round?

Named for the mountain range to the north, Randall's business is one of the reasons the sign welcoming visitors to Grand Lake reads, “Open Year Round.” Grand Lake is known as the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Is Grand Lake Colorado worth visiting?

Grand Lake is known for water sports and recreation as well as being the western entrance point for Rocky Mountain National Park. In the winter months it's known for it's excellent snowmobiling routes. Personally, Grand Lake also stands out in my mind for having excellent wildlife.

What is Grand Lake known for?

Grand Lake is also known as the "Snowmobiling Capital of Colorado," so it's a great winter destination to satisfy your need for adrenaline or pick up a new skill. Snowmobiling isn't the only winter activity around here, though.

Is Grand Lake in Winter Park?

Located in the town of the same name about 45 minutes from Winter Park, Grand Lake borders the south-western border of the beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park. There are public boat launches, marinas, docks and boat rentals available.

Is Grand Lake open in winter?

The National Park road is closed through the winter to Estes Park, however, there is still tons to do on the west side of the Rocky Mountain National Park. You can snowshoe, cross-country ski, snowmobile (in designated areas), and wildlife watching.

Is it better to stay in Estes Park or Grand Lake?

Both Estes Park and Grand Lake are great options for where to stay when visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park is livelier and gives you better access to in particular the Bear Lake area. On the other hand Grand Lake is the more peaceful option that feels further away from it all.

Can you drive from Estes Park to Grand Lake?

All of these routes involve driving on winding mountain roads. Allow approximately 3.5 – 4.5 hours (or more) for alternate routes between Estes Park and Grand Lake, Colorado.

Do you need reservations for Grand Lake?

Reservations are needed to access the main entrance, the Adams Falls trail, North Inlet trail and the East Shore trail. Reservations are NOT required before 6am or after 5pm.

Can you walk around Grand Lake?

Hiking More than 350 miles of trails, branching off from 35 trailheads, are available in Rocky Mountain National Park, and dozens of others begin in and around Grand Lake. The trails range from easy to strenuous, suitable for placid nature walks or adventurous backpacking.

What is Winter Park Colorado known for?

ski slopesColorado's Favorite Year-Round Mountain Playground Just 67 miles from Denver, Winter Park is renowned for its ski slopes, backcountry climbs, and other outdoor adventures. After a long day of adventures, you can wind down in Winter Park's bustling downtown area or modern ski village at the base of the slopes.

Can you access Rocky Mountain National Park from Granby?

Visitors from Granby can access Trail Ridge Road via the Grand Lake entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, which is a 20-minute drive from Granby. Within minutes, travelers ascend through aspen and pine trees that then quickly yield to forests of fir and spruce.

Can you swim in Grand Lake Colorado?

Grand Lake The lake's waters flow out of Rocky Mountain National Park, which surrounds the lake on three sides. Grand Lake allows for public swimming and features the town's boardwalk that takes you all the way to the lake. Many other water activities are also available such as boating, canoeing, and more.

Can you walk around Grand Lake?

Hiking More than 350 miles of trails, branching off from 35 trailheads, are available in Rocky Mountain National Park, and dozens of others begin in and around Grand Lake. The trails range from easy to strenuous, suitable for placid nature walks or adventurous backpacking.

Do you need reservations for Grand Lake?

Reservations are needed to access the main entrance, the Adams Falls trail, North Inlet trail and the East Shore trail. Reservations are NOT required before 6am or after 5pm.

Can you drive from Estes Park to Grand Lake?

All of these routes involve driving on winding mountain roads. Allow approximately 3.5 – 4.5 hours (or more) for alternate routes between Estes Park and Grand Lake, Colorado.

Can you swim in Grand Lake Colorado?

Grand Lake The lake's waters flow out of Rocky Mountain National Park, which surrounds the lake on three sides. Grand Lake allows for public swimming and features the town's boardwalk that takes you all the way to the lake. Many other water activities are also available such as boating, canoeing, and more.

What is the GLMRD Nordic Center?

The GLMRD Nordic Center is a full-service, outdoor winter destination featuring our ski and snowshoe rentals, lessons, a retail shop, and a winter soup kitchen at the Lodge. They do have cross country ski and snow shoe rentals. Never Summer Mountain Products. 970-627-3642.

How many acres are there in Winter Park Resort?

Winter Park Resort is located 35.3 miles away from the Gateway Inn. This resort has 166 designated trails and 1,212 acres. Rocky Mountain National Park. The National Park road is closed through the winter to Estes Park, however, there is still tons to do on the west side of the Rocky Mountain National Park.

What is the phone number for Grand Lake Nordic Center?

970-627-8008. Enjoy the scenic views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Arapaho National Forest at the Grand Lake Nordic Center. We offer the beginner to advanced skier a variety of terrain on 35 km of classic and skate skiing trails. View of the Never Summer Mountain Range from the GLMRD Nordic Center.

What to do in Grand Lake CO in winter?

Things to do in Grand Lake CO in the winter include: Cross Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling, Ice Fishing, Snowboarding & Downhill Skiing. Book now.

Does Never Summer Mountain have cross country skiing?

Never Summer Mountain Products. 970-627-3642. Never Summer Mountain Products does have Cross-Country Ski and Snowshoe rentals for the perfect way to get out and explore snow-cover trails of Rocky Mountain National Park. Snowboarding & Downhill Skiing.

Get Outside

A unique offering, the “Town Trail” allows snowmobiles to travel directly into downtown Grand Lake for shopping, food and fun. Photo by Katie Hearsum

Arts & Culture

Grand Lake has long been an inspiration to artists, and recently the town was designated as one of Colorado’s 26 Creative Districts for its year-round heritage and cultural offerings, like art galleries, historic landmarks, and creative events like craft festivals, writer’s retreats, and theatrical performances at the award-winning Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater.

Eat & Drink

Sitting on a prominent corner in downtown Grand Lake, the Sagebrush Bar & Grill is a top spot for beers and barbecue. Photo courtesy of the Grand Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

Stay

There are a variety of rustic–chic hotels within walking distance to downtown Grand Lake. The Western Riviera offers several different types of lodging, from lakefront motel rooms to hillside cabins.

How much does it cost to snowshoe in Rocky Mountain National Park?

If you stick to the East Inlet Trail near Grand Lake Colorado there are no fees. Otherwise you’ll have to pay $10 per vehicle for the day, $15 for a week.

How many km of groomed trails are there at Grand Lake Nordic Centre?

Both skate and classic cross-country skiers will love the 35 km of groomed trails at the Grand Lake Nordic Centre. The trails cater to all abilities with some easy sections set aside for those with dogs.

How tall is Grand Lake Colorado?

The small town of Grand Lake Colorado – population 471 or thereabouts – sits on the shores of Grand Lake at an elevation of 8,369 feet. It’s the gateway community to the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park and as such has all the services you need.

Is Grand Lake Colorado a destination?

Grand Lake Colorado is also a destination in itself. In summer the lake – the largest natural body of water in Colorado, becomes a recreational playground. In winter snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are popular.

Who is Leigh McAdam?

Leigh McAdam is a Calgary based writer, author, photographer and social media enthusiast with over 61,000 followers. Her blog: HikeBikeTravel is frequently cited as one of the top travel and outdoor adventure blogs in Canada.

How long is the Fraser River Trail in Snow Mountain Ranch?

Meanwhile, Snow Mountain Ranch has a grin-inducing summer tubing hill and other family activities. Hop on the 10-mile Fraser River Trail by foot, bike or cross-country ski. Picnic tables, educational signs, peaceful vistas and the possibility to spot wildlife are all served up.

What is the best way to see moose in Rocky Mountain National Park?

This area is the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and one of the state’s most popular for viewing moose and other wildlife. Pedal along a new 2-mile stretch of the East Shore Trail, the first-ever route in the national park open to mountain bikers.

Where is the oldest dude ranch in Colorado?

Expect nothing but the best at Grand County’s many dude ranches, including Colorado’s oldest continuously operating ranch: Bar Lazy J in Parshall. Proprietors roll out the country hospitality to those seeking an authentic Old West experience, offering activities like horseback riding, hiking and square dancing, and not-so-cowboy tennis, yoga and volleyball. Some even have luxurious spas, miles of trails and fishing.

Is Winter Park open year round?

The town of Winter Park also bustles year-round — don’t miss free summertime concerts at Hideaway Park downtown. Or book a guided rock-climbing excursion with Winter Park Adventure Quest in Fraser, an aerial adventure park with 24 challenge elements. Meanwhile, Snow Mountain Ranch has a grin-inducing summer tubing hill and other family activities.

Is Winter Park Resort open for skiing?

Winter Park Resort’s deep snow, diverse terrain and the Winter Park Express Amtrak route from Denver right to the slopes make it a favorite skiing, snowboarding and fat-biking destination with beginners and experts alike. Nearby, the smaller Ski Granby Ranch is known as a long-time family favorite.

Can you snowmobile through Grand Lake?

In Grand Lake you can even ride your snowmobile through town and right up to your favorite Grand Avenue lunch spot or take a spin on the town’s ice-skating rink.

What trails are open in Kawuneeche Valley?

The Kawuneeche Valley has plenty of trails that are perfect for snowshoeing, including the hike to the Holzwarth Historic Site and the Green Mountain Trail to Big Meadows. And if you'd like a guide, the park also offers ranger-led snowshoeing expeditions. 7. Cross-Country Skiing.

How many people can you sleep in a mountain hut?

How about this for a little adventure? Spend some time off-grid at a mountain hut, where just getting there is a bit of an experience. The High Lonesome Hut in Tabernash is a 2.5-mile snowshoe or cross-country ski trek in and sleeps 12, while Broome Hut, on the west side of the Berthoud Pass, is a 1-mile trek in and can accommodate 16 people. Once there, you and your companions will have your own private winter wonderland and basecamp to explore the backcountry.

What happens in the winter in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Winter completely transforms Rocky Mountain National Park. Its mountain peaks turn brilliant white, its waterfalls freeze over and its animals (well, the ones that don't hibernate) leave their high-altitude summer homes and head down into the valleys, where you don't have to travel far to see them. Stop in at the Kawuneeche Visitor Center to find out where you can spot some elk, moose and more, and make Grand Lake, the western gateway to the park, your base.

How hot is the hot springs?

With 21 natural spring-fed pools at temperatures ranging from 95º to 112ºF, you'll be sure to find your bliss as you soothe your muscles and plan your next adventure!

How many miles of snowmobile trails are there in Grand County?

With more than 1,000 miles of snowmobiling trails across Grand County, there's a whole of exploring to be done here. While some winter sports require you to be in great shape or have expert skills before you can enjoy the backcountry, pretty much everyone can explore the great outdoors on a snowmobile.

What is the best time to fish in Grand County?

8. Ice Fishing. The trout don't stop biting when the ice freezes over Grand County's lakes and ponds. In fact, winter is a great time to fish here. You can fish anywhere on the lakes you want and you don't even need a boat.

Where to go tubing in Colorado?

For a fun family adventure, head to one of Grand County's seven sledding and tubing hills. You'll find plenty of fresh powder and slopes that will keep kids, teens and adults smiling. Hideaway Park in Winter Park and the Grand Lake Nordic Center both have classic hills that are also free. The Colorado Adventure Park and the Historic Fraser Tubing Hill add lifts and warming huts to the mix. And Winter Park Resort, Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa and Snow Mountain Ranch - YMCA of the Rockies give tubing the full resort treatment.

What is Grand Lake known for?

Known as the "Western Gateway" to Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake has something for everyone, and the charming lakeside setting makes folks feel right at home.

Is Grand Lake open year round?

Grand Lake offers year-round recreation for all ages, from family-friendly fun to exhilarating outdoor adventures. In the summer, hike, bike, or ATV through unspoiled terrain or boat, sail, or fish on Grand Lake, home to one of the oldest yacht clubs in the west.

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