Grand County: Come Chase Color
Autumn Starts at the Source
As summer fades, Grand County comes alive with golden light, glassy lakes, and endless ways to explore.
The charming towns of Grand County are launch points to adventure, exploration and serenity. They offer rustic mountain delight with vast views and an entryway to nature whether by wandering trails or spending time on the water in shimmering lakes, canyon rivers and soothing hot springs. Shop galleries for art and Western wear. Sample local craft brews. Camp lakeside under the stars.
Come see why fall is better here—crisp mornings, colorful days and cool nights under big skies.
Fewer Crowds, Wilder Views
Looking for fewer crowds and more color? Grand County is the source for crisp hikes, calm mornings, and wide-open adventure this fall.
Close to Colorado's capital city but a world away, it's the Western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park's thrilling contrasts of tranquil meadows, varied wildlife and Alpine lakes against the soaring heights. Follow Trail Ridge Road to explore from Winter Park to Estes Park, about a 2-hour drive. Watch aspen trees light up the hillsides and spot bighorn sheep, elk or moose. As twilight comes, prepare for ranger-led stargazing and Milky Way views splashed across dark skies, especially visible in early autumn.
The vast park offers 585 campsites with another 200 backcountry locations. (Check the park's website for Timed Entry Permits and Reservation through mid-October.)
This is how fall should feel
In Grand County, autumn is more than a season—it's a feeling. Nature's color—golden and amber hues against crisp blue skies—envelops as you choose your own adventure.
Pack a picnic and choose a driving route that winds along the Colorado River or Muddy and Rabbit Ears Passes. Hop the Granby Ranch chairlift or Winter Park Resort gondola to float among the autumn hues. Or hit the water at Shadow Mountain Lake via paddleboard, kayak or pontoon. Fishing streams and lakes, mountain biking through wooded trails with leaves aglow or following paths on horseback also offer ways to take in the rich hues.
Come chase color, slow down, and settle into the stillness of the high county.
The Source of Your fall
In Grand County, Colorado, wild isn't just a landscape—it's a mindset.
Located just 67 miles from Denver, this alpine escape invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature. Whether it's lakeside kayaking, stargazing from a dude ranch, or dancing to live music at farmers market or arts festival, connection and adventure come naturally here.
Six towns offer distinct personalities (Fraser, Granby, Grand Lake, Hot Sulphur Springs, Kremmling and Winter Park) from boating on the largest natural body of water in Colorado to therapeutic dips, rafting Gore Canyon and hiking and biking trails nestled against mountain vistas.
The options are endless under wide-open skies with Grand County as your source for autumn adventure in the Modern West.
Read more like this
