ESCAPE THE HEAT. ADVENTURE IN GRAND COUNTY.
Make Gravity Haus Winter Park your basecamp while you dip into these classic Colorado summer cool downs.
When temps dip into the 90s in Denver, you’re just a quick drive away from fresh mountain air, crisp high alpine lakes and rivers and cool forested hikes. Summer in the mountains is a glorious reprieve.
Here’s where to hit the water and cool off this summer in Grand County.
Pontoon on Lake Granby
The third largest body of water in Colorado sits just five miles outside of the town of Granby. This deep lake is fed by pure mountain runoff, keeping it cool and inviting for a dip while cruising on your party barge. Rent a pontoon from one of the lake’s marinas. Explore 40 miles of shoreline and first-rate fishing — Lake Granby is frequently stocked with trout and kokanee salmon.
Canoe on Grand Lake
Paddle the day away on Colorado’s largest and deepest natural body of water. Lower your core temp with a swim in chilly snowmelt coming off the Continental Divide. Snap some epic selfies — Grand Lake is surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park’s postcard peaks on three sides — and pop into the adorable town of Grand Lake for a stroll down the historic boardwalk.
Paddle Board Shadow Mountain
Tap the Haus Quiver for the latest paddle boards from Hala, High Society and Bote (don’t forget to grab the AeroPump auto electric pump for inflation ease) and gain a new Colorado lake perspective from a SUP. Shadow Mountain Lake’s 1,346 surface acres of deep blue waters are the perfect tranquil and less frequented gliding surface. Hit Pine Beach on the western shore for a mid-day picnic.
Float the Colorado River
Call on an outfitter or a friend with a raft and float down the Colorado River just west of Kremmling. This mellow river stretch is loved for its chill vibe, easy fishing and a daring cliff jumping rock. Take the plunge and then kick back with your favorite bevvie and enjoy the Colorado mountain breeze.
Fly Fish the Fraser River
The first main tributary to the Colorado River in the Arapaho National Forest, the Fraser River flows for 32 miles from the base of Berthoud Pass, past Winter Park and into the Colorado River. Fishermen and women land large brown, cutthroat and rainbow trout. Access the river by hiking in from the Fraser River Trail, from USFS campgrounds or along roadside turnouts. Insider tip: Locals say some of the best fishing is in the canyon downstream from Tabernash.
Day Camp at Meadow Creek Reservoir
Pack a cooler, the hammock and your pup and seek out this hidden gem ten miles east of Tabernash. Meadow Creek Res sits at a cool 9,947 feet and, at only 50 acres and 58 feet deep, it’s a small but mighty summer cool down spot. Adventurers love it for fishing, primitive camping and hiking into the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Catch rainbow and cutthroat trout, take a nap in the shade or float around in an Oru inlet kayak from the Haus Quiver.
Soak in Hot Sulphur Springs
Not just an après ski luxury, Colorado’s hot springs are fabulous for summertime soaking. Cool nights and brilliant stars set the backdrop for a rejuvenating visit to Hot Sulphur Springs just east of Kremmling. Wrap up a day or weekend in the mountains by soothing sore muscles in these natural healing waters. Explore 22 pools and private baths plus a full menu of day spa services.
Ready to spend some time in Grand County this summer? Make sure to book Gravity Haus in the heart of downtown Winter Park your basecamp. You don’t need to be a member to stay, but Gravity Haus members do save up to 50% off hotel room. Learn more on that here.
