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: from campsites and cabins to rental homes, bed and breakfasts, condominiums and motels.
Events:
March 11-12 The Original Fishermans Winter Fishing Contest
May 27-29
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, Kauffman House opening, antiques auction, sidewalk sales, and bingo in the park.
June 3-4 Fine Arts and Crafts Fair
July 4th The fireworks over the lake are the area’s most spectacular July 4th display.
July 15-16
Western Weekend and 59th Annual Buffalo Barbecue Celebration - featuring a parade, pancake breakfast, fun run, art & architecture walk and, of course, a buffalo barbecue.
August 1-5 Grand Lake Regatta
Sept 9-10 Grand Lake Fall Folk Festival
Nov 24-25 Olde Fashioned Christmas celebration with an antiques auction and crafts bazaar.
Dec 31 Diamonds in the Sky – Midnight fireworks over Grand Lake
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.
•
Trail Ridge Road, in Rocky Mountain National Park, is the highest continuous paved road in the United States – topping out at 12,183 feet.
Grand County, Colorado is the perfect year-round destination with activities ranging from a family ski adventure to a real Western trail ride. For additional information on Grand County and an online Trip Planner check out www.grand-county.com or call 800-729-5821. 
