About a 900ft vertical gain on the way up to this beautiful alpine lake, but it's not a super long…read morehike. We stopped a lot, and got back within 3 hours. Most people were faster than we were! It's busy on weekends, but you will still have space to yourself. At the lake everyone has to take turns going out on the dock. You can bring a small picnic and hang out there, but there is no fishing, no boating, and the plants around the lake are fragile, so you have to use the walkway. Just before you get to the lake, there's a huge meadow that is probably a resting place for Elk in the fall. Going back is much easier, most of your vertical gain is done! Enter the area by the Arapaho Bay entrance to Lake Granby. Pass over the dam. You have to park on the side of the road. There is no trail sign. Recommend GPS. Beautiful views of Lake Granby as well.

We had such an amazing time white water rafting with Liquid Descent! Our guide, Kayla, was…read morefantastic. She made us feel safe and comfortable from the very beginning, and gave clear instructions so we always knew what to do. She tailored our ride to how "spicy" we wanted to make it, so since it was our first time rafting, that made us feel great. The trip was the perfect level of excitement for us as beginners. It was fun, thrilling, and adventurous without ever feeling overwhelming. My sons, ages 10 and 13, had an absolute blast and want to plan another trip back. We even got to see a bald eagle along the river, it was phenomenal. The weather was perfect, and the whole experience was incredibly well organized. It's also just under two hours from Denver, making it a great day trip. We really appreciated the free parking, and they kept our car keys safely in the office while we were out on the river. We felt completely comfortable leaving everything else locked in our car. We couldn't have asked for a better first rafting experience. We would absolutely recommend them to anyone, especially families and first-time rafters. Definitely opt for the photo package too - the pictures we received were stunning and memorable. Huge thanks to Kayla and the Liquid Descent team!

I can't say enough good things about our experience with Liquid Descent. My daughter and I signed…read moreup for the beginner rafting trip... and while she was excited... I was terrified. I was so nervous walking in, but from the moment we arrived, every single staff member made us feel welcomed, safe, and supported. Our guide, Koa, was the perfect balance of fun, kind, and incredibly skilled. He guided us through the rapids with such confidence and ease while also making sure everyone felt safe and included. He checked in on us several times throughout and made sure we were having fun, asked us if we wanted to "spice it up" a bit or keep it mellow and just really let us know this was "our" trip and he's cater to what we wanted. I quickly found myself letting go of fear and enjoying the moment... something I didn't expect would happen. Koa's energy was contagious, and his calm, respectful nature made us feel like we were in the best hands possible. At one point on the river, another rafting company had a mishap and we had to pull over and wait for them to recover and get their riders back into the raft safely. Koa explained what had happened with total grace - no judgment, no gossip - just a calm and respectful explanation. He also spoke so kindly of his own coworkers and even the owner of Liquid Descent. You could tell he genuinely cares about the rafting community and takes pride in his work and LOVES his Liquid Descent family! Every employee we encountered was friendly, encouraging, and helpful - from getting us fitted with helmets and life jackets to cheering us on as we headed out. As someone who started out nervous, that kind of supportive vibe made a huge difference. They encouraged me, and they helped me push past my comfort zone in the best way possible. What a GREAT memory! We will remember this day not only for the thrill of the rapids, but for the kindness and heart of the people who guided us through it! If you are considering rafting in Colorado, go with Liquid Descent. I'm so glad we did!

The trail is quite popular, parking lot is not too small, but in a good day, still challenging to…read morefind one. The trail is basically flat, plus photo and water breaks, it took us almost 2 hours. I enjoyed the hiking, the lake is beautiful. The only regret is that we and all other hikers heard the moose moo but no one saw it. On return to the parking lot, I met father-son who carried backpacks ready for 5 day trip in the mountains, it seemed exact father-son thing to do, I only wish I could do the same thing with my son earlier.

Google it and you will find it. Our group arrived at 6 30 am on Saturday. The lower parking lot…read morewas full and ended up parking at the upper lot by the trash bin. As you enter thru the gate, there is a welcome kiosk and rest room to the right. No water or hand washing station. Detailed map will tell you all about the area. This is a starting point to many trails that go deep into the Indian Peaks Wilderness area. On our visit, we got to see mooses, very close to the end of the lake. You can do the loop around the lake. At the end of our visit, there were cars parked along the side of the road. Very popular area. Lots of canoes, paddle boards. No bike allowed!

Willow Creek Reservoir is a great little spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery. We stopped…read morehere to eat the sandwiches we packed and loved the peaceful views of the water. There are picnic tables, a restroom, and the park was very clean and well maintained. Parking is $5, but it's free if you have an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass. We didn't stay long, but it was the perfect place for a relaxing picnic before continuing our drive.

Dilemma: When your New Years traditions include ice fishing on Lake Granby - what do you do when…read morethey lake hasn't even begun to freeze over? Solution: head over to Willow Creek Reservoir and proceed on with tradition. So we did just that! My friends and I made our way to Willow Creek Reservoir. We were one of perhaps four groups on the ice. The reservoir is far larger than I expected and we had ample room for fishing, the dogs to play, and our own antics. Hooray! There are various parking areas so you can find a secluded area to enjoy nature. Since we were there in the off season the bathrooms were locked. It does look like there are also camping and picnic areas scattered about as well. After several hours and catching a few Rainbow Trout we decided to pack up and head back to the cabin. I look forward to coming back to Willow Creek Reservoir to see what the other seasons have in-store!

I dont know why this place only has 3 stars! The views alone are worth 5. I gave it 4 because the…read morewater system is down and there are porta potties instead for the bathrooms. And from the looks of the maintenance documentation inside of them, its been months and they havent resolved the issue. The camp sites are clean and the bear boxes are super useful and spacious. The picnic tables at the sites are all wood and of varying conditions. There are a multitude of options for types of sites and if sites havent been rented they say open and you can claim them, however, you have to pay cash or check in the moment. There are tent only sites, day use, and rv sites with electrical hookup. Water currently unavailable. Definitely would come back and hopefully for longer!

Stillwater is one of my favorite car camping sites. It is a short drive to Lake Grandby and about…read more25 minutes to Winter Park. The camp sites are always well maintained as are the bathrooms. The bathrooms have running water, full stocked with toilet paper but no soap so be sure you bring some. The sites contain bear boxes, picnic tables, fire pit and pad for your tent. You can always park your car close to any of the sites. There are designated paths that lead to the water and very small beach area. A ton of paddle boarders, a few boats and jet skis but, mostly people just enjoying the water close to the beach area.

I am a total camping newb, so every time I book a camp site at a new location I am a little nervous…read morefor how it's going to turn out and I always learn a thing or two. We were on site 49 with 8 people + a baby. We did not realize how tight of a squeeze it would be for all the tents, but we managed to just squeeze on an 8 person tent, 6 person tent, and two little 2 person tents. Site 49 is close to waterfront (1-2 minute walk), and right behind it is a large mound that you can climb for a beautiful view. The campground guests were so friendly, told us where we can buy firewood and park our extra cars. The location is beautiful, you really feel out there. Would love to come back for two nights next time.

I stayed in site 66 which is mostly secluded, but you have to "pay" for that seclusion and great…read moreview. There is a pretty decent hill and trail to get to spot 66 so if you carry a lot of gear it can be a hassle (you can also drive around to the vault toilets and climb up from there which is shorter but still uphill). This particular spot also has zero shade so bring your own. The campsite in general was great because of its seclusion. There's a handy "general store" for firewood or things you forgot

Grand Lake is amazing and Rocky Mountain SUP was just as great!…read moreWe were really unplanned,showed up blind and went right out on the water following a quick mini lesson Staff were patient, knowledgeable and kind Really a great hour on the water in the sunshine!

This business is not open for the 24 summer season! Don't waste your time. There's no paperboard…read moreavailable to rent in grand lake this summer.

What an incredible property! Absolutely stunning in it's natural aspect and the facilities itself…read more I do not know much of the background, but talk about a grounds this place has. So much to offer for a retreat space, it's hard to put words to it. I was only able to experience it with just a weekend trip, so I was only able to partake in a handful of the offerings. Needless to say, I would be inclined to want to go back to this place in the near future no matter the reason as I believe any retreat/outing the takes place here in certainly enhanced by the many offerings it possesses: a large mess hall; multiple lodges/cabins; central, outdoor fire pit; auditorium that fits, what I can deduce, about 500; heated swimming pool with an adjacent hot tub, that is nearly as big as the pool; ropes course and zip line; disc golf course (though latter half needs some sprucing up); acres upon acres of space, with miles of trails; a creek that passes through, and small lake (or rather, pond for those from the Mid-West); gymnasium; and multi-puprosed building that contains a coffee shop on the top-floor, and a Café on the bottom with foosball, ping pong, and pool tables. Like I said, lots of things to do. Makes for a good time for just about any age, but in particular a Men's Retreat.

Beautiful getaway in the mountains…read more Crooked Creek Ranch is beautiful. I know, quite the introduction. But every time I've been here (this is my 4th or 5th time) I'm always impressed and eager to return. Let's start with the view....Oh my gosh. Your tucked neatly in the mountains and no matter if the mountains are snow capped or lush and green you really get this since of how wonderful nature can be. There's a lake for done swimming in the summer and the camp is littered with hiking trails if that's your thing. The camp also offers a gym, game room, and multiple areas to sit back and read with one of the most beautiful views in America. The thing that puts Crooked Creek over the top is the amazing staff. I've helped run a few church retreats up here and never once had any conflict with anyone working here. The rooms have a nice cozy cabin vibe which is perfect for the non camping "camper." The kitchen and common areas are always well kept and the food is exceptional for a retreat center. Overall, if your planning anything from a youth/young adults retreat, to a business retreat, or even a family reunion you'd be short changing yourself not to have Crooked Creek high on your list of destinations.

CAUTION! Two days after my dogs swam in the water at this dog park, my 15 year old girl started…read moreacting dizzy, could not walk without falling down, was vomiting and tilting her head to one side. Thankfully, the vet quickly treated her for idiopathic vestibular disease which included a steroid injection and a motion sickness med. Four days after swimming here, my 5 year old boy had a seizure (has never had one prior to this), was vomiting, and rolling around on the ground. Once again, the vet treated him within 30 minutes of this with a steroid injection (and other meds). Two healthy dogs both have a similar reaction within days of swimming at this dog park???- suspect toxic blue green algae. This has not been officially confirmed but it certainly seems probable since the only other water they had been in prior to this was Lake Monarch over a month ago. Wish there was an option for zero stars.

Rented a pontoon boat and was surprised by how clean it was. The staff there were very helpful and…read moreknowledgeable. I will be defiantly be using them again.

This is our go-to for kayak rentals when we are in Grand Lake for the weekend…read more They have all the water craft options and generally sell out so book in advance or go early. This year we went down at 10am to beat the crowds and all the kayaks were rented. By 10:30 we were on the water but it can be busy. People are nice taking your money. 3hrs in a single kayak costs around $75 plus tax. Not cheap but worth it. They offer life jackets and surly service on the dock. Located right off the beach on the east end of town and next to the marina coffee shop. Easy access and not much parking at the marina. Use the public lots.