Need help planning your summer vacation in Granby? Our one-week summer itinerary is loaded with top activities, plus our insider tips on the best days to explore and the local events you can't miss!
Saturday: Arrival + Rodeo
Arrival:
Settle into your lodging accommodation in Granby.
Saturday Night Rodeo
As evening arrives, get ready for the Flying Heels Rodeo, a classic Western experience with small town charm. You can either grab a quick bite in town before heading over or plan to eat at the rodeo grounds. Expect typical rodeo fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, popcorn, and maybe even some BBQ. Granby’s rodeo runs Saturdays in June and July, with additional Independence Day weekend rodeos.
Sunday: Train Museum + Explore Downtown
Breakfast
Grab a hearty breakfast at one of Granby’s local cafes - Fitch Ranch Cafe, Midtown Cafe, or Java Lava Cafe, setting you up for a day of exploration.
Train Museum
The Moffat Road Train Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the railroad and its impact on the region. Explore the exhibits, learn about the engineering marvel of the Moffat Tunnel, and step inside historic railcars and engines.
Fishing at Kaibab Park
Next to the Train Museum, Kaibab Park offers a fishing pond ideal for children, as well as a short river path and fly-fishing opportunities along the Fraser River.
Main Street Lunch & Shopping
Grand Mountain Munchies is a good place to grab a quick lunch before shopping at The Bowerbirds Den for gifts and home goods, Grand Mountain Trading for souvenirs and mountain apparel, and Two Pines Supply for outdoor gear. For an afternoon pick-me-up, grab a coffee from Lark Coffee, and enjoy a cookie from Mary's Mountain Cookies or the honey caramels and chocolate from Queen Bee Gardens.
Helpful Tip: If you have any additional questions about planning the rest of your week, stop in to see us at the Information Center desk.
Dinner
Unwind with dinner on the patio at Granby Garage Roadhouse and savor the long summer evenings in the mountains.
Monday: Lake Granby + Indian Peaks Wilderness
Lake Granby
Dedicate a full day to Lake Granby. Consider renting a boat at a local marina for lake exploration, booking a guided fishing trip, or enjoying the water with paddleboards or kayaks. Find a relaxing spot along the shoreline to soak in the scenery.
Bonus tip: If you book your boat rental with Indian Peaks Marina, ask about their "Tackle Box" picnic lunch add-on option.
Indian Peaks Wilderness
The far end of Lake Granby is bordered by the Indian Peaks Wilderness with several options for hiking. Monarch Lake loop is a favorite but trailhead parking can fill quickly. There are several alternative trailheads including Knights Ridge, Watanga Lake, Strawberry Lake and Doe Creek.
Helpful Tip: Remember to purchase your vehicle day pass online or at the fee station near just after the turn off to Lake Granby.
Dinner
After a full day on the lake and trails, make it an easy dinner night and swing through town to grab a pizza from Lina’s Pizza.
Bonus Tip: Locals rave about their scratch-made bread. Grab a loaf and thank us later.
Tuesday: Rocky Mountain National Park
Breakfast
Grab a breakfast sandwich to go from Bighorn Bagels for the drive and plan to dedicate the entire day to exploring the wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Remember that timed entry reservations are REQUIRED during peak season from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm, so plan your arrival time accordingly. Enjoy scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road, stopping at overlooks for breathtaking panoramic views. Choose a hiking trail that suits your fitness level and interests, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs. Pack a substantial lunch and plenty of water to enjoy amidst the stunning natural beauty.
Helpful Tip: Plan to arrive by at least 8:30 am to avoid needing a timed-entry reservation.
Dinner
For dinner upon your return to Granby, consider Brickhouse 40 with its historic setting in Granby's first brick building and a menu featuring American comfort food.
Wednesday: Golf, Bike & Relax
Golf
Tee off amidst the fresh mountain air and soak in the scenic views at both the Grand Elk and Granby Ranch golf courses.
Bike
Granby Ranch caters to all types of riders with its extensive bike trails. Experience the adrenaline rush of downhill trails or opt for a scenic cross-country adventure on their singletrack trails.
Dinner and Live Music
Enjoy the Wednesday Night music series at Granby Ranch for a relaxed evening with mountain views. The Bluebird Bistro offers a patio where you can dine while listening to the music.
Thursday: Snow Mountain Ranch + Music & Market
Snow Mountain Ranch
Snow Mountain Ranch is packed with activities from hikes and mountain biking trails to horseback riding at Rocky Mountain Stables and the summer tubing hill. There is also an indoor swimming pool, archery range, roller skating, mini golf, zipline, climbing wall, and canoeing on the reservoir. Many of these activities are included in a day pass or come complimentary with your stay.
Music & Market
In the evening, head to the Music & Market event for live music and local vendors. Grab dinner from one of the market vendors or bring a to-go meal from a Main Street restaurant.
Friday: Visit Nearby Towns
Friday is a perfect day to discover the many great options for exploring the surrounding towns within Grand County.
Grand Lake
Discover the charming town of Grand Lake with its historic boardwalk, shops, restaurants, and the town beach.
Hot Sulphur Springs
Unwind and enjoy the therapeutic natural mineral hot springs surrounded by scenic beauty at Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa.
Kremmling
Experience thrilling white water rafting on the Colorado River with guided trips offered by outfitters in Kremmling.
Winter Park/Fraser
Explore the Winter Park and Fraser area for extensive hiking and biking trails, plus summer activities at Winter Park Resort like an alpine slide and mountain bike park.
Saturday: Check Out
Thanks for visiting Granby! We hope you enjoyed your summer getaway and look forward to welcoming you back for a winter or summer adventure in the future.