Looking for a peaceful mountain escape in Colorado? Head to Granby! Nestled in the heart of Grand County, Granby offers year-round adventure with lakes, trails, and ski resorts right at your doorstep. Whether you want to hike, fish, ski, or simply relax in nature, Granby is the perfect small-town mountain getaway.
Granby, CO Highlights:
- Granby Ranch: Ski, snowboard, mountain bike, or hike at this family-friendly resort with scenic mountain views.
- Lake Granby: Fish, boat, kayak, or simply soak up the beauty of Colorado’s third-largest body of water.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Access incredible hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and alpine scenery nearby.
- Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa: Relax in natural hot springs pools just a short drive away.
- Downtown Granby: Browse charming shops, local restaurants, and colorful murals in this welcoming small town.
Best Time to Visit Granby, CO
The best time to visit Granby depends on your interests. Visit in the summer and early fall (June–September) for hiking, fishing, and boating, or in the winter (December–March) for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
How to Get to Granby, CO
- If you are traveling by car: Granby is about 2 hours northwest of Denver, accessible via I-70 and US Highway 40.
- By Train: Amtrak’s California Zephyr stops in Granby, offering a scenic ride through the Rockies.
- By Plane: The nearest major airport is Denver International Airport (DEN), with car rentals available for the drive to Granby.
Where to Stay in Granby, CO
- Inn at Silver Creek – Comfortable accommodations with a pool, hot tubs, and easy access to Granby Ranch and Lake Granby.
- Granby Ranch Lodging – Stay right by the slopes and trails for a true mountain adventure.
- C Lazy U Ranch – Luxury dude ranch experience offering horseback riding, fishing, spa services, and gourmet dining.
Best Things to Do in Granby, CO
1. Discover Aviation History at Emily Warner Field Aviation Museum
You will find the Emily Warner Field Aviation Museum at the Granby/Grand County Airport, where it occupies what was once the Rocky Mountain Airways terminal. The award-winning museum exhibits tell the story of the history of Aviation in Grand County. A tour of the museum will reveal many stories about the early days of aviation and the many heroic female pilots who dared to fly, including Emily Warner who became the first female airline captain back in 1976. The museum is open on Fridays and Saturdays, from early June through August and on 8th March each year to celebrate Emily Warner & Women Airline Pilot’s Day.
1023 Co Rd 610, Granby, CO 80446, Phone: 970 531 1100
2. If You Crave Year-Round Adventure, Play at Granby Ranch
Granby Ranch is a family-owned ski resort that is designed for skiers and riders of all ages to play and learn in a friendly, safe environment. The ranch is located just an hour and a half away from Denver, making it an ideal place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a peaceful day skiing and riding in the snow. The extensive terrain has an array of trails of varying length and difficulty for people to use but start and end at the same point so that families can still have fun together. You can take on a bigger challenge by going tree skiing or try something completely different such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
1000 Village Rd, Granby, CO 80446, Phone: 888-850-4615
3. Create Family Memories at Snow Mountain Ranch
Snow Mountain Ranch can be found right in the middle of Grand Lake, Winter Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. The ranch gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy the wholesome and tranquil setting of the ranch with their friends and family while partaking in fun activities. The ranch spans over 5,000 acres, on which you can go hiking, biking, zip lining, horseback riding, rafting, boating, fishing, sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing on one of the most expansive trail systems in the United States. Make your visit an extended one and stay at one of the ranch’s lodge rooms, cabins, campgrounds, or yurts any time of the year.
1101 Co Rd 53, Granby, CO 80446, Phone: 970-887-2152
4. Tee Off Against Stunning Backdrops at Grand Elk Golf Club
The Grand Elk Golf Club can be found nestled in the scenic Middle Park and is surrounded by stunning views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Continental Divide. The golf course was crafted in 2002 by PGA Tour Veteran and 13-time champion Craig Stadler and Tripp Davis. The 7,144-yard masterpiece, which was inspired by the inland courses of the British Isles, will place you among sweeping panoramic vistas, from natural wetlands to undulating meadows. The course will challenge the creativity and imagination of even the finest golfer, while still being suitable for beginners and juniors. It has won many awards over the years and includes recognitions such as being listed on America’s Best New Courses. Other features of the club include the Grand Elk Grille, a short-game practice area, target greens, and a practice putting green.
1300 10 Mile Dr, Granby, CO 80446, Phone: 970-887-9122
5. Hike, Breathe, and Recharge on Monarch Lake Loop Trail
The Monarch Lake Loop Trail offers a hike that is perfect for the entire family, from little kids to older, more experienced hikers. The trail is a four-mile-long loop that will take you through some of the area’s most beautiful creeks, forests, and lake shores. The lake itself is a popular local attraction and gives visitors the opportunity to go kayaking, canoeing, or fishing, in addition to exploring the Indian Peaks Wilderness area. The trail, which is classified as easy, will take approximately two to three hours to complete the four mile loop in its entirety. Note that pets are allowed as long as they are on a leash.
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
6. Reel In Big Catches with Fishing with Bernie
If you’re looking for the finest in Colorado lake fishing trips, then look no further than Fishing with Bernie. The experienced guides provide you with top of the line boats and equipment as they navigate you through some of the best fishing spots in the area. Your fishing experience is guaranteed to be outstanding as take you through Lake Granby and its breathtaking scenic backdrop alongside Rocky Mountain National Park. By the time you are back at the ramp, your catch will be packaged and ready to transport back with you as you explore the rest of Colorado.
Phone: 970-531-2318
7. Set Sail for Fun at Indian Peaks Marina
Make your visit to Lake Granby spectacular with a reliable rental boat from Indian Peaks Marina. The establishment has been there for years, providing families with pontoon boats, fishing boats, two-seat catamarans, covered ships, uncovered ships, and moorings and buoys. You can have a relaxing experience on the water, just boating out to a serene corner of the world as you take in your surroundings, or you can spend the day fishing in the lake which is constantly stocked with trout, Kokanee salmon, and other species of fish. The lake is the third largest body of water in the state of Colorado and is an absolutely beautiful place to explore.
6862 US-34, Granby, CO 80446, Phone: 970-887-3456
8. Relax and Explore the Waters of Lake Granby
Containing over 40 miles of shoreline, Lake Granby is the third largest body of water in the state of Colorado. The lake was created in the 1950s as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project which led to the erection of the Granby Dam. The lake is one of the most popular fishing spots in the area and is constantly stocked with trout, Kokanee salmon, and other species of fish. In addition to fishing, you can also spend your time there hiking, camping, and picnicking along the gorgeous scenery. Lake Granby is also home to the Lake Granby Yacht Club, and at an elevation of 8,280 feet, that makes it one of the most elevated yacht clubs in the world.
Where to Eat:
9. Savor Hearty Flavors at Maverick’s Grille
Maverick's Grille is a wonderful restaurant which is housed in what was once a lettuce warehouse; the building had since then been used as a saloon, inn, and even a roller skating rink before it became the home of Maverick’s. While visiting the award winning dining establishment, you can choose to have your meal in one of their two relaxing dining rooms or at the lounge, complete with fireplace, flat-screen televisions, and plush leather sofas. The menu is separated by appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, entrees, and a dedicated children’s menu. Popular entrees at the fill are the Wild Bill’s game meatloaf, chicken fried steak, Big Bob’s burrito, and the panko crusted cod.
15 E Agate Ave, Granby, CO 80446, Phone: 970-887-9000
More Places to Eat in Granby, CO
- Maverick’s Grille – Laid-back eatery serving Colorado favorites like elk burgers and bison meatloaf.
- Brickhouse 40 – Upscale yet casual American restaurant known for steaks, sandwiches, and hearty entrees.
- Midtown Café – Great breakfast and coffee spot offering homemade pastries and casual lunch options.
If you are interested in local events:
- Granby 4th of July Celebration – Parades, live music, and fireworks light up the town each summer.
- Ranch Rendezvous at C Lazy U Ranch (Summer/Fall) – Experience authentic ranch traditions, food, and Western activities.
- Granby Farmers Market (Summer) – Local produce, crafts, and food vendors gather weekly in downtown Granby.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Granby, Colorado:
- Grand Lake (20–25 min) – Explore Colorado’s largest natural lake, downtown shops, and the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Winter Park Resort (30 min) – Hit world-class ski slopes, downhill mountain biking, and summer festivals.
- Hot Sulphur Springs (15–20 min) – Soak in healing waters at the historic hot springs resort.
- Fraser (25–30 min) – Visit local breweries, art galleries, and outdoor adventure centers.
- Shadow Mountain Lake (25 min) – Perfect for kayaking, fishing, or hiking along picturesque mountain lakeshores.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Granby located?
- Granby is located in the heart of beautiful Grand County, Colorado.
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Is Granby a year-round travel destination?
- Yes, Granby is a stunning place to visit in winter, spring, summer, or fall.
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What winter activities can visitors enjoy in Granby?
- Go skiing at Granby Ranch.
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What outdoor activities are available in warmer months?
- Try horseback riding with High Country.
- Enjoy boating at Snow Mountain Ranch.
- Go fishing in Lake Granby, Colorado’s third-largest body of water.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Cool temperatures with snow melting in the mountains.
Inn at SilverCreek – A comfortable and rustic stay with mountain views.
Hike in Arapaho National Forest – Explore scenic trails as wildflowers begin to bloom.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor adventures.
River Run RV Resort – A scenic camping and glamping resort by the river.
Boating and Fishing at Lake Granby – Enjoy water activities with stunning mountain backdrops.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and golden aspen trees.
Littletree Inn – A cozy and budget-friendly option.
Drive the Trail Ridge Road – Witness breathtaking fall foliage in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and ideal for winter sports.
YMCA of the Rockies – Snow Mountain Ranch – A great family-friendly winter retreat.
Ski at Granby Ranch – Experience family-friendly skiing and snowboarding.
Map:
Plan Your Trip