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.
RECOMMENDED HIKES
WINDY GAP WILDLIFE VIEWING AREA
Distance: .2 miles
Difficulty: Very Easy
This paved trail has scenic views of the Windy Gap Area and the Colorado river. Also features spotting scopes to view numerous birds.
JACQUES TRAIL
Distance: .5+ miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
This first half-mile is an approx. 500 ft. climb through the East Troublesome Burn Area. Trail then connects to an intersection of multiple trails, which create several 1-mile+ loops along the hillside, overlooking the scenic Colorado River Valley.
DOE CREEK EAST TRAIL LOOP
Distance: 1.5 miles +
Difficulty: Easy
This trail passes through a variety of aspen and lodgepole forests, as well as a high mountain meadow. For a more challenging hike, continue to Doe Creek West Trail for a steeper, longer climb, and impressive views of the Indian Peaks and Lake Granby.
HORSESHOE TRAIL
Distance: 4.2 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
Adventurous and have more time? This primitive trail winds through an old lodgepole forest, and open into sagebrush country. Come prepared to traverse creeks and downed trees. There is no cell service so bring plenty of water, snacks, and layer-up for any weather condition.
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.
FRASER TO GRANBY TRAIL
Distance: 16.2 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
This is a combination of paths and singletrack trails that connect Fraser to Granby. For a hike with views of the Continental Divide, wildflowers and aspens, take the section that starts at the Gazebo parking lot on Village Road and hike out and back for as little or long as you like.
OTHER HIKES
MONARCH LAKE LOOP TRAIL
Distance: 4.2 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
This is one of the most popular hikes and busiest trails in the area, so be prepared to encounter crowds. The Arapaho National Recreation Area (ANRA) is a fee-use area, and you will need to pay at the fee station at the entrance of ANRA prior to your arrival or online. There is not a fee station at the trailhead. Be aware that parking is limited and fills early. Parking along the road will result in a ticket. Although it’s popularly know as the Monarch Lake Loop, it's actually three connected trails: Arapaho Pass Trail, Arapaho Pass Spur Trail and Cascade Creek Trail. Group size is limited to 12 heartbeats (people and dogs, etc.). Dogs must be leashed at all times.
GRANBY RANCH TRAILS $
Granby Ranch offers 5,000 acres of Rocky Mountain views to explore. Hike among the aspens, columbines, and wildlife, and enjoy views of the Fraser River Canon and Continental Divide. Access the network of trails on foot, bike or take a scenic chairlift ride. A trail access pass or daily ticket and signed waiver required.
SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH TRAILS $
Snow Mountain Ranch offers a family-friendly Waterfall Hike, a 9-Mile Mountain Hike among other trails and activities. A day pass or membership is required, which grants access to the trails as well as other activities like mini-golf, the swimming pool and more. Day passes can be purchased at the Programs Building.
