Grand Lake is Natural Colorado!
With its majestic mountains, miles of lakes and rivers, abundant wildlife, quaint shops, delicious dining, entertaining nightlife and a multitude of activities and events, Grand Lake, Colorado is the ideal year round family vacation destination.

Rocky Mountain National Park
Discover one of our country’s greatest treasures in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Park was opened in 1915, with a focus on Rocky's scenic and natural wonders. The Park is located just minutes from the town of Grand Lake, Colorado, making it a perfect day time visit while staying at the Rapids Lodge and Cabins.

Trail Ridge Road-
If you explore Rocky Mountain National Park you will no doubt be driving on Trail Ridge Road! Topping in elevation at 12,183 feet, 11 miles of this paved road is above tree line. The sites are spectacular and there are two excellent visitor centers. One at the entrance to Grand Lake, Colorado called the Kawaunechee Visitor Center and one at the peak of Trail Ridge Road. One will often see herds of elk, moose, deer and other wildlife along the way.

Aspens turn yellow in September and this is a perfect time to getaway and enjoy Colorado's abundant beauty. Enjoy a trip through Rocky Mountain National Park across Trail Ridge Road and into Grand Lake, Colorado. Stay at the Rapids for a relaxing night and fine dining overlooking the fall colors.

Arapahoe National Forest-
This National Forest encompasses land straddling the Continental Divide from Colorado to Wyoming. The forest is open to day time visits and overnight camping. Trails are available for hiking, mountain biking, ATV’s, off road motorcycles and snowmobiles. Stay at the Rapids Cabins for a Colorado retreat with access to all the natural wonders of our National Forests!

Colorado Wilderness-
In a country that seems to grow every day, it’s a treat to know there are still areas within the state of Colorado that are set aside as Wilderness. The Indian Peaks Wilderness and the Troublesome Wilderness area are both within Grand County. Access is limited but the rewards are genuine. Motorized vehicles are not permitted in Wilderness areas.

Trails.com-
Not sure where to start? This handy site will help you plan a trail, trip or visit to local hot springs, trails, and forest boundaries. It’s easy to use and will direct you to miles of options with tips on levels of ease or difficulty.

Excellent Fishing-
Whether you like lake fishing or fly fishing, Grand Lake, Colorado has access. Some of Colorado’s gold medal waters are within 30 miles from lodging at the Rapids. You can pack a lunch, fish and bring home the dinner or dine in our wonderful restaurant!

Birding-
The Rocky Mountain region is home to many species of birds; from song birds to water birds to birds of prey, you will be entertained by endless sightings.

Hunting-
Grand County is home to big game such as bear, elk and deer. For the Sportsmen and Sportswomen in your family a seasonal getaway in the fall is a must.

Sombrero Stables-
This Colorado ranch manages more horses than any other dude string in the country. The horses are well mannered, and come in all colors!  Grand Lake, Colorado has it’s own stable located at the entrance to town. See Grand Lake, Colorado from a trusty mount just like the cowboys did many years ago!

Winding River Dude Ranch-
Winding River Ranch is a beautiful 525-acre property bordered by Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapahoe National Forest. Guided horse- back rides are available and over two miles of the Colorado River flows through the ranch. They are located 2 miles from the village of Grand Lake.

Kayaks and Canoes-
Grand Lake Sports rents kayaks, canoes and bikes to get you out on the lake and around about town. They don’t have a website but you can call them at 970- 627-8124

Adventures in White Water-
If you are searching for fun and adventure, you have found it!  An exciting whitewater raft trip with us will create lifelong memories for the whole family. Adventures in Whitewater offers a variety of trips for all ages on both the Upper Colorado River and Clear Creek .  From first time beginners to expert paddlers, you will get the trip that is right for you.  Come ride with us and get a discount to the Rapids Restaurant for dinner details on the Specials page.

Trail Ridge Marina-
Trail Ridge Marina is conveniently located along U.S. Highway 34 near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. They are only 2 ½ miles south of Grand Lake, Colorado. You can explore the natural beauty of the area, fish, picnic, and travel by boat to Grand Lake, Colorado and tie up to the town pier for some shopping and dining, or just relax in the sun. We offer the exact type of rental boat to meet the experience you are seeking - from spacious pontoon boats, to pleasure boats, to fishing boats. Closest to the

Hot Sulphur Springs Resort-
Thirty-five thousand feet below the surface of the earth, the heat of volcanic rock is released through countless fissures that spread out through the earth’s crust. At Hot Sulphur Springs Resort, there are spa services, 21 outdoor pools and 3 indoor pools. This is a wonderful relaxing experience and perfect for the end of your vacation day! The springs are located about 22 miles from the Rapids Lodge and Restaurant.

Biking in Grand County
Grand County is host to miles of mountain biking trails. Winter Park alone boasts over 600 miles of marked, mapped and user-friendly trails, contributing to its apropos nickname “ Mountain Bike Capital, USA . ”  From high mountain peaks to beautiful river valleys, single tracks to back country roads, there are opportunities for all ages and skill levels.

Historic Grand Lake, Colorado-
First settled in 1876, Grand Lake, Colorado became a supply center in 1879 when gold and silver were discovered nearby on the Colorado River. Prospectors came into the area from Breckenridge and the Blue River and by crossing the mountains on what is today Trail Ridge Road. The Kaufmann House, on Main Street, is a wonderful museum to learn more about Grand Lake’s history.

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre-
The best of small town theater’s, the RMRT offers some of the finest productions for old favorites as well as new productions. The summer season rocks and a full schedule is available while in the winter visit their site for special events and productions. Located on Main Street Grand Lake, Colorado, only 2 blocks walking distance from the Rapids Lodge.

Grand Elk Golf Course-
Playing 7,200 yards from the back tees, the par 71 signature course emphasizes natural features echoing the Heathland style, which derives from the British Isles. This magnificent course was rated in the 2005 Golfweek’s Top 40 America’s Best New Courses. This course is located in Granby about 18 miles from the Rapids Lodge and Restaurant.

Pole Creek-
Treat yourself to 27 holes of Classic Mountain Golf on three distinct courses:  The Ranch , The Meadow and The Ridge .  Pole Creek's design was conceived by Denis Griffiths, who incorporated existing lodge pole pine, valley meadows, sagebrush and a variety of water hazards including five lakes to create a diverse course appealing to a wide range of golfers. Yes, the ball really does go farther at altitude! This course is located between Fraser and Granby, about 22 miles from the Rapids Lodge and Restaurant.