Media Contact:  Gaylene Ore Ore Communications (970) 887-2536 e-mail:  gaylene@orecommunications.com       GRAND LAKE, COLORADO, Elev. 8369 Pop. 447   History:   Some of Grand Lake’s summer cabins and homes date to the late 1800’s, making the town one of Colorado’s first resort communities.  The creation of the Rocky Mountain National Park in 1915 secured Grand Lake’s future as a tourist gateway.  Tourism received an additional boost in 1952 when Colorado’s Big-Thompson project was dedicated, creating more recreational opportunities at the new Shadow Mountain Lake and Lake Granby.   What to Do:  The town serves as a base for summer and winter recreation, from fishing, trail rides, golf and boating in the summer to snowmobiling, ice fishing and nordic skiing in the winter.  Just one block from the lake, specialty shops and restaurants line the town’s wooden boardwalks and western-styled storefronts.  The park is the site of outdoor concerts and craft fairs during the summer.  Also during the summer, Grand Lake is home to the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater.  For a peek into local history, visit the Kauffman House, a refurbished log hotel that features a museum with pioneer memorabilia.   Lodging:  Whether you are looking for a historical lodge or a great RV/camping site, Grand Lake offers it all.  Lodgings range from campsites and cabins to rental homes, bed and breakfasts, condominiums and motels.   Events:  March 12-13            The Original Fishermans Winter Fishing Contest May 20-22               Family Fun Spring Fishing Contest May 28-30               Memorial weekend (weather permitting), the “Hands Across the Nation” marks the official re-opening of Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park, and the town hosts a Memorial Day parade, antiques auction, sidewalk sales, and bingo in the park. July 4th                    The fireworks over the lake are the area’s most spectacular July 4th displays.  July 16-17               Buffalo Barbecue - featuring a parade, pancake breakfast, fun run, art & architecture walk and, of course, a buffalo barbecue.  November 26-27     Olde Fashioned Christmas celebration with an antiques auction and crafts bazaar.   Fun Fact:  ·        At 400 feet deep, 1.5 miles long and 1 mile wide, Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest natural lake.   ·        Grand Lake is also known as “Colorado’s Snowmobiling Capital” and is one of the few towns that allows snowmobiles on the town streets.   For information about other Grand County destinations, contact the Grand County Colorado Tourism Board at www.grand-county.com, or call toll free (800)729-5821.