Hiking

Hiking opportunities are endless in and around Granby. From easy trails to difficult, from a stroll around the lake to a vertical climb up a mountain, you can fill your vacation with a variety of stunning hikes. Trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult, providing something for everyone. Opt for a short hike or head out into the backcountry for some time in the wilderness. Whatever your preference, here are some of our favorite hikes in the area, and also make sure to check out our Granby Area Trails Map for other ideas.

MONARCH LAKE LOOP TRAIL

Distance: 4.2 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Great for hikers and families wanting to spend some time outdoors, Monarch Lake is a beautiful place to take a walk. The trail offers incredible views of the Continental Divide and allows you to walk on the edge of the forest. Even if you just spend an hour, the picturesque beauty is not to be missed. This is one of the most popular hikes in the area, so be prepared to possibly encounter crowds.

DOE CREEK TRAIL

Distance: 7.3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
This is a perfect afternoon hike no matter the time of year. Doe Creek is a split loop trail so there is no right or wrong direction to begin hiking once you make it to the initial split. The trail is mostly flat until it climbs up into the trees just past the meadow. From there, the incline gets much steeper before reaching the high point with amazing views of Lake Granby. The trail offers beautiful scenery during the spring, summer, and early fall months, and can be used with snowshoes in the winter.

WATANGA LAKE VIA ROARING FORK

Distance: 7.96 miles round trip
Difficulty: Hard
This trail is very steep and rocky, but offers incredible views and great physical reward if you choose to hike all the way to Watanga Lake. This hike is a great option if you’re looking for a challenge as it gains around 2,500 feet of elevation from the parking lot to the lake. Although this hike can be done in one day, the area offers great backpacking and backcountry camping during the summer (permit required). Due to snow and a steep grade, this trail is best accessed from early June to late September.