Best Things To Do In Grand Lake, Colorado In Summer

Grand Lake is one of my favorite Colorado mountain towns in summer. Sitting on the western edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, this small town offers a great mix of outdoor recreation, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s noticeably quieter than some of Colorado’s more famous mountain destinations.

While many visitors come for Rocky Mountain National Park, there’s so much more to the area especially if you like summer at the lake. Grand Lake itself is Colorado’s largest natural lake, but the area is also home to Shadow Mountain Lake, Lake Granby, and Monarch Lake. Together they create endless opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.

I’ve visited Grand Lake numerous times over the years and continue to find new reasons to return. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or using Grand Lake as a base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, these are the best things to do in Grand Lake, Colorado in the summer.

Best Things To Do in Grand Lake In Summer

Kayaking & Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Getting out on the water is one of the best things to do in Grand Lake during summer. While many Colorado mountain towns have a lake nearby, few can compete with the variety you’ll find here. Between Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, Monarch Lake, and Lake Granby, there are plenty of options for paddlers of all experience levels.

Grand Lake is my favorite paddling destination and the one where most visitors end up since it’s right in town. Best of all, it offers beautiful mountain views and it’s easy to find nearby rental companies. If you’re bringing your own equipment, I’ve had good luck launching from the public dock on the east side of the lake. There are also spots right off downtown.

For a quieter experience, consider Shadow Mountain Lake or Monarch Lake. Shadow Mountain Lake is connected to Grand Lake by canal and just a few minutes away, while Monarch Lake is a bit further out but is one of the most scenic lakes in the area and doesn’t allow motorized boats.

No matter which lake you choose, I recommend getting an early start, early mornings are best. Winds typically increase throughout the day and afternoon thunderstorms are common this time of year, so conditions can change very quickly.

Go Hiking

Grand Lake is a fantastic destination for hiking. Thanks to its location next to Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho National Forest, you’ll find everything from short family-friendly walks to challenging mountain hikes with panoramic views.

Adams Falls is one of the area’s most popular trails and a great place to start. This short hike leads to a waterfall rushing through a narrow rocky chasm and requires very little effort, making it a good option for most visitors. If you’re looking for something longer, continue beyond the falls on East Inlet Trail. The trail follows the river through beautiful meadows and offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the area. Just be aware this hike requires a park pass and timed-entry permit.

Another favorite is Monarch Lake Loop, an easy trail that circles one of the prettiest lakes in the region. The route offers excellent mountain views and is a great option for visitors looking for a scenic hike without a major elevation gain.

Other popular hikes near Grand Lake include Shadow Mountain Lookout, Lone Pine Lake, Green Mountain Trail, and Onahu Trail to Granite Falls. You can search the AllTrails app for more hikes surrounding Grand Lake (that’s how I find my hikes!).

As with kayaking and paddling, it’s best to start hikes early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer and can be dangerous, especially at higher elevations. You’ll also want to pack plenty of water, bring layers, and don’t forget bug spray — the mosquitoes can be surprisingly aggressive on some trails.

Watch For Wildlife

One of my favorite things about Grand Lake is how easy it is to spot wildlife. In fact, if seeing moose is on your Colorado bucket list, this is one of the best places in the state to do it.

While moose are the area’s biggest draw, it’s also common to see elk, mule deer, foxes, and a variety of birds. Black bears live in the area as well, but sightings are much less common.

Some of the best places to look for wildlife include East Inlet Trail, Monarch Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Moose are especially fond of wetlands and willow-filled areas, so keep an eye on ponds, streams, and marshy meadows.

If you do encounter wildlife, be sure to give animals plenty of space and never approach or feed them (not even the cute little ones!). And be aware that moose in particular can be very territorial and dangerous.

Rocky Mountain National Park

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Grand Lake is having Rocky Mountain National Park right in your backyard. The park’s West Entrance is located just a few minutes north of town, making it easy to spend a day exploring one of the country’s most popular national parks.

While many first-time park visitors focus on the park’s eastern side near Estes Park, I think the western side is quite underrated. It tends to be quieter, wildlife sightings are more common, and you’ll still find plenty of beautiful hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and mountain views.

Some of my favorite attractions on the west side include Adams Falls, the Colorado River Trail, and the viewpoints along the Kawuneeche Valley. But I have a full guide with more ideas, check out The Top Things To Do On The West Side Of RMNP.

Of course, no visit would be complete without driving Trail Ridge Road. This spectacular scenic drive connects Grand Lake and Estes Park, climbs above the treeline, and offers some of the most impressive mountain views in Colorado.

Just remember, you need a timed-entry reservation to visit Rocky Mountain National Park in summer. You can book at RMNP Timed-Entry Reservation.

Explore Downtown Grand Lake

The heart of downtown is Grand Avenue, a historic boardwalk lined with local shops, restaurants, art galleries, coffee shops, and souvenir stores. Chances are you’ll end up here at some point during your trip, it’s just a few blocks from the lake and it’s genuinely home to most businesses in town.

Wandering is one of the best things to do here — grab a coffee, browse a few shops, and take your time exploring. The downtown area isn’t huge, but it’s full of little spots worth checking out.

After exploring Grand Avenue, head down to the Grand Lake Marina. It’s just a short walk away and you’ll find docks, benches, and beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Beach (& Swim If You Can Bear The Cold!)

Another popular lake activity is hanging out at the beach.

The most popular option is Grand Lake Beach, located right next to downtown and within easy walking distance of the shops and marina. This small sandy beach is especially popular with families during summer and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

You’ll also find additional lake access at Point Park and other public areas around the lake. Most of the shoreline is rocky, so if you find a nice beach-like spot, snag it.

For those planning to swim, be aware that the water is extremely cold even in summer, too cold for most visitors. But even without swimming, these spots are great for relaxing by the water and enjoying the scenery.

Scenic Drive

Grand Lake’s incredible mountain scenery makes it a great destination for a scenic drive. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area’s lakes, forests, and mountain views from the comfort of your car.

Of course, the most famous drive is Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park. This incredible road connects Grand Lake and Estes Park, climbs above the treeline, and offers some of the most spectacular views in Colorado. Be sure to stop at the overlooks along the way and spend some time exploring the alpine tundra.

Closer to town, the roads around Shadow Mountain Lake and Lake Granby offer beautiful views with far fewer crowds. These drives are especially nice around sunrise and sunset when the lakes are calm and wildlife is often active.

Just remember that afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer, particularly at higher elevations. If you’re planning to drive Trail Ridge Road, you’ll need a RMNP timed-entry pass.

Go Boating

With three major lakes in the area, it’s no surprise that boating is one of the most popular summer activities in Grand Lake.

Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Lake Granby all allow motorized boats and offer plenty of room to explore. Pontoon boats are especially popular and can be rented from several outfitters, each lake has one or two rental companies.

Personally, I recommend a morning and early afternoon ride. The lakes are often calmer and the crowds are smaller, it also gives you plenty of time to explore before the afternoon thunderstorms hit — these storms can move in very quickly and are important to watch for when out on the lake.

If you’d rather leave the driving to someone else, Headwaters Marina also offers scenic boat tours on Grand Lake during summer. You can find information at Town Of Grand Lake Boat Tours.

Go Fishing

It’s also no surprise that Grand Lake is a fantastic fishing destination, whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to spend a relaxing morning on the water.

The area’s lakes and rivers are home to trout, kokanee salmon, and other cold-water species. Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Lake Granby are all popular fishing destinations, while nearby streams and sections of the Colorado River attract fly fishermen throughout the summer.

Even if fishing isn’t the primary focus of your trip, it’s a peaceful way to spend a few hours and enjoy some of the area’s beautiful scenery. Be sure to carefully review the state’s rules and know that a Colorado fishing license is required for those over 16.

Summer Events

Summer is the busiest time of year in Grand Lake, and there’s a good chance something will be happening during your visit. Some of the area’s most popular annual events include:

• Memorial Day Parade
• Grand Lake Chili Cook-Off (late-June)
• Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks
• Grand Lake Arts and Crafts Fair (varies, usually mid-July or early-August)
• Buffalo Days (mid-August)

Check current event schedules at Grand Lake Events.

Grand Lake also hosts a number of free outdoor movie nights throughout the summer. These family-friendly events take place near downtown and are a fun way to spend an evening after a day of exploring. Movie schedules vary from year to year, and I’ve yet to find a consistently reliable source online, so this is one to keep an eye out for while you’re in town.

Summer Concert Series

One of my favorite summer traditions in Grand Lake is the free Summer Concert Series. Held on Wednesdays throughout the summer at Grand Lake Town Park, these concerts feature a variety of musical styles and are a great way to spend an evening in town.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab takeout from one of the local restaurants, and settle in for the show. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, and it’s a fun opportunity to experience a little bit of the local community.

Find more details and check out this year’s schedule at Grand Lake Creative District.

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre

Looking for another relaxed activity after a day of hiking or exploring the lakes? Head to Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre.

Located right on Grand Avenue, this local theater has been entertaining visitors and residents for decades and is one of Grand Lake’s most beloved attractions. The theater produces professional musical productions throughout the summer season and also offers youth theater programs.

Even if live theater isn’t normally your thing, it’s worth checking the schedule while you’re in town. It’s a fun way to spend an evening and a great opportunity to support the local arts community.

You can view the current schedule and purchase tickets at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre.

Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a classic Colorado experience, and Grand Lake is a great place to give it a try. Several local outfitters offer guided trail rides through forests, meadows, and mountain scenery that would be difficult to access by car.

One of the most popular options is Winding River Resort, located on the edge of RMNP. Their guided rides take visitors through beautiful mountain landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Another well known option is Thunder Horse Outfitters, which offers rides ranging from short beginner-friendly outings to longer adventures, including a few in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Whether you’re an experienced rider or trying horseback riding for the first time, this is a memorable way to experience the mountains around Grand Lake.

Learn About Grand Lake’s History

Grand Lake may be best known for its lakes and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, but it also has a fascinating history dating back to the Ute tribe and eventual settlement during Colorado’s mining boom.

If you’re interested in learning more about the town’s past, start with the Kauffman House Museum. Built in 1892, it’s one of the oldest buildings in Grand Lake and offers a glimpse into what life was like during the town’s early days. Admission is just a few dollars and it’s located downtown, so it’s easy to stop by while out exploring.

Another great option is joining a walking tour, typically held by the Grand Lake Area Historical Society or Grand Lake Creative District. These tours explore the town’s history, historic buildings, and some of the stories that helped shape Grand Lake into the destination it is today. This is another activity where finding current information online can be a bit tricky, but the museum or Grand Lake Visitor Center should be able to point you in the right direction.

Go Biking

Another fun outdoor activity in Grand Lake is biking, whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a more challenging mountain biking adventure.

One of the most popular options is the trail around Monarch Lake. This scenic route offers beautiful mountain views and is relatively accessible for most visitors. You’ll also find numerous mountain biking trails throughout Arapaho National Forest and the surrounding area.

If road biking is more your style, the roads around Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Lake Granby offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery from two wheels. Just keep in mind that summer traffic can be busy at times, especially on weekends.

As with all outdoor activities here, mornings are often the best time to ride. You’ll usually find cooler temperatures and calmer weather.

Take A Class At Rocky Mountain Folk School

If you’re looking for something a little different, check out Rocky Mountain Folk School for art classes. Located in downtown Grand Lake, this community-focused organization offers a wide variety of classes and workshops throughout the year.

Class offerings change regularly but in the past have include painting, leather-work, pottery, fiber arts, woodworking, jewelry making, and more. Whether you’re interested in learning a new skill or simply want to take home a unique souvenir from your vacation, it’s a fun way to spend a few hours.

Reservations need to be made in advance, check out upcoming class schedules at Rocky Mountain Folk School Classes.

Day Trips From Grand Lake

If you’re spending several days in Grand Lake, there are a few nearby destinations worth exploring.

One of the most popular day trips is Estes Park. Connected by Trail Ridge Road, this mountain town sits on the eastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park and offers additional shopping, restaurants, and attractions. It’s about 1.5 hours away, however it may take longer due to park traffic, but the drive itself is one of the highlights thanks to outstanding alpine scenery. For some of the best attractions, check out my guide to The Top Things To Do In Estes Park.

Another great option that’s a bit closer to town is Winter Park, just 45 minutes away. While it’s best known as a ski town, there’s still plenty to do in summer with scenic gondola rides, hiking, excellent biking routes, live events, and a fun downtown area.

For something a little more relaxing, consider Hot Sulphur Springs. Located about 30 minutes from Grand Lake, it’s home to a collection of natural hot spring pools and makes for a great half day trip.

It’s also likely you’ll pass through Granby on your way to and from Grand Lake. While this neighboring town is often overlooked, it’s worth stopping for a meal, a little shopping, or additional recreation around Lake Granby.

Whether you’re spending your days on the water, exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, or simply enjoying the laid back atmosphere downtown, Grand Lake is one of the best summer destinations in Colorado. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable visit to this beautiful mountain town.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Colorado guides.

More Information For Your Trip To Grand Lake, Colorado:

• Grand Lake: Best Cabins For Rent
• West Side Of Rocky Mountain National Park: Top Things To Do
• Rocky Mountain National Park Guides

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

• Best Summer Mountain Towns In Colorado
• Underrated Colorado Mountain Towns (worth a visit!)
• Best Colorado Mountain Towns For First-Time Visitors
• Colorado Travel Guide (how to plan your trip!)
• All Colorado Guides