Welcome to Granby, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Colorado! Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure or a curious traveler looking for unique experiences, Granby has something for everyone. From picturesque trails that lead you through breathtaking landscapes to pristine fishing spots that will reel you in, this charming town offers a plethora of outdoor activities. But Granby doesn’t stop there. Prepare to be captivated by its distinctive attractions and hidden treasures that can only be found here. In this blog, we will unveil the best things to do in Granby, showcasing the town’s natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and one-of-a-kind experiences that will make your visit truly unforgettable. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Granby’s trails, cast your line in its pristine lakes, and discover the secret gems that make this destination truly special.
Table of Contents
Things to Do in Granby, CO
Unique Experiences in Granby
Our Top Granby Itineraries
Where is Granby, Colorado?
Where is Granby, Colorado? We don’t blame you if you have to ask, but once you visit, you’ll recommend this awesome little town to everyone you know! Granby, Colorado, is a hidden gem tucked in the Rocky Mountains 80 miles northwest of Denver. Residents and visitors are treated to stunning, panoramic mountain peaks and wilderness views.
Granby is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities to suit every taste and interest especially during Spring season. From heart-pounding thrills to serene moments of tranquility, there’s something for everyone in this mountain paradise. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Granby.
Map of Granby
Best Outdoor Activities in Granby
1. Spend The Day at Lake Granby
There is always something to do at Lake Granby, Colorado! Lake Granby is located on the Colorado River, just 5 miles outside of town. The 11-square-mile lake was formed in 1950 when the Granby Dam was built. Lake Granby offers 40 miles of shoreline for visitors to enjoy, whether it be camping, fishing, hiking, or a spot to catch some of the sun’s rays. Lake Granby boat rentals offered through the lake’s marinas are a great way to get out and experience the water. Both motorized and non-motorized boating is permitted on Lake Granby. There are three marinas located on Lake Granby for boat rentals, slips, and tours: Indian Peaks Marina, Highland Marina, and Beacon Landing Marina.
There are plenty of non-motorized ways to explore the numerous coves and marinas, but one of the most popular is paddleboarding. Whether you rent a paddleboard or have your own, it is a great way to exercise and enjoy the lake. If you are an angler, make sure to bring a few poles and lures, as Lake Granby fishing is renowned for its lake trout and Kokanee salmon population.
If you prefer to stay dry, there are plenty of fun things to do on land too! Lake Granby Camping is a popular option for locals and visitors alike to fully explore all of the trails and shorelines that Lake Granby offers. Multiple campsites around the lake offer a variety of camping experiences. Pick up a tent rent a camper, and make a weekend getaway living life out on the lake! The Lake Granby area is just one of the great places for hiking that the Granby area offers. If you enjoy the outdoors, take some time to explore the many trails the area has to offer.
2. A Fly-Fishing Paradise
If you are a fly-fishing enthusiast, look no further! Lake Granby, Colorado, is also a popular destination during the spring season for fly-fishing! You can cast your lines in the shimmering waters, surrounded by the lake’s gorgeous environment. The tranquil ambiance and abundant fish population make it an idyllic spot for indulging in the art of fly fishing. While the winter season may see the lake frozen over for ice fishing contests, spring breathes new life into Granby, inviting anglers to experience the thrill of catching trout and other species amidst the awakening of nature.
3. Mountain Biking In Granby, CO
Riders of all levels, from beginners to experienced thrill seekers, will find that Grand County is one of the best locations in the nation for mountain biking. From high mountain peaks to beautiful river valleys, single tracks to back country roads, there are opportunities for all ages and skill levels. The 6000 acres shared between Winter Park, Arapaho National Forest, and the Rocky Mountain National Park means that a new trail to explore is just a short drive away. Bike Granby Ranch features a downhill bike park with a bike lift shuttling riders from the base of the park back to the peak. If downhill isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other cross-country and family-friendly biking trails to explore.
In addition to the multitude of trails for riding, Granby and the rest of Grand County have a mountain biking culture. Throughout the year, dozens of businesses and organizations in the county express their love for the sport by supporting or maintaining trails, hosting festivals and events, as well as offering tours and rentals. Granby is the perfect place to connect with riders from all over the country.
4. Experience Western Living at Granby Ranch
Granby Ranch is one of the premier recreational venues in the area. No matter the season, you will always find entertainment, recreational activities, and other events happening at Granby Ranch. There are hundreds of family-friendly lodging options located within Granby Ranch, making it the perfect mountain getaway. The main attraction of Granby Ranch is the slope that doubles as a ski mountain in the winter and a downhill mountain bike park in the summer seasons. In addition to skiing and mountain biking, Granby Ranch also provides
- Fly Fishing – Granby Ranch has exclusive access to a private, three-mile stretch of the Fraser River. The gold-medal river is a tributary of the Colorado River and is home to brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.
- Golfing – The Granby Ranch Golf Course is one of two amazing courses in Granby. The 18-hole course offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Golfers of all skill levels will find golfing in Granby entertaining.
- Live Music Concerts/Festivals – Granby Ranch hosts The Rocky Mountain Music Series, a series of live shows in the summer. Every concert features food and beverages from their award-winning culinary teams and is free to attend.
- Other Events and Activities –Throughout the summer, Granby Ranch puts on events like nature walks, kid’s crafts, lawn games, guided hikes, car shows, and more!
In addition to the many activities Granby Ranch offers, it is also a popular venue for private events like weddings, corporate retreats, company meetings, seminars and workshops, and school trips.
Unique Experiences in Granby
There are certain things you’ll only find in Granby! You will fall in love with the mountain charm of all the towns in Colorado, but there’s something really special about Granby. Sure, we may be biased, but where else in the world, you find a Morris the Cat day? From local businesses that have become more of a community center than a store to exciting events like Ice Fishing contests and more! There really is something for everyone in Granby, Colorado! Who said small towns couldn’t pack a big punch?
1. Granby Rodeo at Flying Heels Arena
The Flying Heels Arena is a Granby staple. The Granby Rodeo has been a part of Granby’s culture since 1943, which is impressive as the town was founded in 1905! Every summer, you can bring the whole family to Flying Heels to see bull/bronco riding, roping, barrel racing, games for the kids, mutton busting, and more. Head on over on Saturday nights from June 3 – July 29. Stay tuned for special acts, like Independence Day Weekend’s The Amazing Westernaires, and fireworks on July 3rd.
2. Access to Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a majestic Colorado gem for tourists and residents alike, and Granby is a great hopping off-point for exploration! Just a short distance away, this legendary park beckons with its snow-capped peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. As you traverse the scenic routes, be prepared to witness awe-inspiring vistas and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Whether you opt for a leisurely hike along picturesque trails, capture stunning photographs of the iconic Longs Peak, or observe the diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna, Rocky Mountain National Park promises an unforgettable experience. From the charming town of Granby, embark on a journey of discovery and revel in the unparalleled beauty that awaits at this cherished national treasure.
3. Celebrate Morris Day
September 14th is a special and very Granby holiday: Morris the Cat Day. The famous and much-loved resident cat of Country Ace Hardware, Morris, mysteriously disappeared in 2022. Luckily, the town rallied to find him. Upon his return, the City of Granby officially declared September 14th Morris the Cat Day. The day is a chance for the town to celebrate the acts of kindness that lead to Morris’ return and remind all of Granby’s citizens about the pride they have and the community spirit. You can get Morris the Cat stickers at Country Ace, and more!
4. See Some Live Music
Granby’s Music & Market is a great way to catch live tunes during the summer. Who doesn’t love outdoor concerts? On Wednesday nights in Polhamus Park, you’ll find dog-friendly, family-friendly fun during the summer! There are food trucks and other vendors to help create the optimal summer vibe.
What To Do In Granby? Our Top Granby Itineraries
A Perfect Daytrip from Denver
If you’re living in the Denver area and want to escape the mile-high city of skyscrapers for a change, come to Granby. Sure, you’ll have to go up in elevation (we’re sittin’ pretty at 7,935 feet), but that’s how you get the best views! Granby is a budget-friendly day trip, making it a great option for families, couples, and even solo travelers.
With access to the Rocky Mountains and a small-town charm, Granby is a great destination for people looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. From Dude Ranches to dog sledding, this little town packs a punch!
Day Trip from Denver Summer Itinerary:
Morning: Grab the family and hop in the car! Leave Denver bright and early and enjoy the scenic drive to Granby. Stop for breakfast at a local cafe in Downtown Granby to get ready for the day ahead.
Late Morning: Head to Lake Granby for a morning of water-based fun. You can take kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the shoreline and soak up the sun. If you need any outdoor fun gear, we’ve covered you at Country Ace! We have paddleboards, life jackets, and more.
Afternoon: Refuel with a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots around the lake. Then, venture into Rocky Mountain National Park for a hike! Green Mountain Trailhead and Onahu Trailhead are fairly close to the Grand Lake entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. Take in the beautiful mountain views and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! You just might see a moose!
Evening: Wrap up your day trip with a delicious dinner at one of Granby’s charming restaurants, or start the drive back to Denver.
An Outdoor Summer Adventure in Granby
Granby is the place to do it for those seeking a week-long summer escape filled with outdoor excitement. From mountain biking to kayaking, it can be hard to choose what to do in Granby. If you spend at least a week in Granby, you’ll have time to sample a little bit of everything (if you have the energy!).
Summer Outdoor Fun Itinerary:
Day 1-3: Spend your first few days exploring the great outdoors on foot. Map out the most scenic hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, try your hand at fishing on Lake Granby,
Day 4-5: Are you a mountain biker? If you’re ready to amp it up, it’s time to tackle the mountain biking trails at Granby Ranch. Spend time exploring the various trails in and around Granby. If you’re not comfortable on a bike but ready to get off your feet, take a scenic horseback ride. The Rocky Mountain Stables at YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch offers guided trail rides through the Rocky Mountains. Experienced wranglers will help pair you up with the right horse and teach you the basics before taking off.
Day 6-7: Wind down your week with a relaxing day at Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa, where you can soak in natural mineral pools and enjoy soothing spa treatments. End your trip on a high note with a scenic drive through the Rockies, soaking in the stunning vistas before heading back home.
Experience Arts and Culture in Granby
Granby is more than just an outdoor paradise. Granby has that Western charm you associate with the good ol’ days, a small-town feel, and an engaged community. The arts and culture scene in Granby just might surprise you!
Arts, Culture, and Shopping Itinerary:
Day 1: Spend a day exploring museums! Start with the Moffat Road Railroad Museum and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of railroad history at the Moffat Road Railroad Museum. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fun family outing, the museum offers an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. Then, check out the Emily Warner Field Aviation Museum, which celebrates the history of aviation in Grand County. If you’re not done with museums, you can head to Hot Sulphur Springs for the Pioneer Village Museum, where you’ll find early tools of Grand County inhabitants, pioneer clothing, and historic Grand County artifacts on display.
Day 2: Does Broadway in the Rockies sound appealing to you? Catch a show at the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre! A short drive from downtown Granby will take you to a world-class Theater in beautiful Grand Lake, Colorado. Each season promises to bring outstanding professional theatre to the Rocky Mountain region.
Day 3: Granby’s downtown is known for colorful murals along Main Street. Spend a day shopping downtown and look for the countless murals. You’ll see people, animals, landscapes, and abstract designs. The murals were painted for a summer mural festival in 2019 and have brightened up Main Street ever since!
Photos courtesy of Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre and Moffat Railroad Museum.
It’s Time To Plan Your Visit To Granby, CO
There are so many things to do in Granby, like a day out on the lake, exploring the hundreds of mountain bike trails, enjoying the many activities at Granby Ranch, and that is only just scratching the surface. Granby also offers many different experiences anyone can enjoy like the Moffat Road Railroad Museum. You’ll want to make sure that you are prepared to take full advantage of everything Granby has to offer. Country Ace Hardware, located in Downtown Granby, Colorado, is your one-stop shop for everything you need for your weekend getaway. No day on the lake is complete without YETI coolers, fishing rods and bait, lifejackets, and marine accessories. If you are planning a trip, make sure you stop and check out our selection of bike parts and accessories like tires, inner tubes, air pumps, and helmets.
For the most up-to-date information and latest events for everything that is happening in Granby, visit Destination Granby’s website. Whatever your interests and hobbies are, you can find something to love in Granby, so when you are planning your next big vacation or weekend getaway, it is worth a trip to Granby!