Granby, Colorado | Grand County

Granby has been called a “huntsman’s paradise” by locals. It sits in a wide, scenic valley with stunning landscapes in every direction. There’s national forest access in most directions and also excellent fishing, thanks to Lake Granby to the north.

Cozy shelters, delicious cuisines, and wonderful shopping areas make it a convenient place to stay while exploring the Grand County region. The town has a motto: “The heart of something grand.” Granby resides less than two hours drive from Denver.

Granby Colorado Union Pacific Railroad — Union Pacific locomotive in Granby, CO. Photo by: carfull…from Wyoming

In 2020 the town boasted a population of 2,079. Granby resides at 7,935 feet of elevation. It was incorporated on December 11, 1905. The town is a gateway to Lake Granby and the other “great lakes of Colorado”, located north of town. Granby also boasts its own ski area and year-round resort, Granby Ranch.

Granby lies on the route of the Amtrak train with its own station in town. You can catch this train going west from Denver’s Union Station to Fraser or Granby stations, or continue west to Glenwood Springs or Grand Junction.

Main Attractions

Granby Ranch Resort – Provides skiing in the winter, and golfing and biking in the summer. The resort is situated a few miles from downtown.

Lake Granby – It’s the second-largest body of water in Colorado. Lake Granby offers water sports of all types, including boating, fishing, and swimming. It’s one of five lakes within the Arapaho National Recreation Area.

Read about the top things to do in Granby.

Recreation

Colorado River Fall Colors Granby CO — The Colorado River near Granby, CO. Photo by: Simon Morris

Biking – Arapaho National Forest is full of scenic trails for exceptional mountain biking. Granby Ranch also has an awesome bike park with lift access.

Camping –

Arapaho National Forest offers many access points between Grand Lake and Winter Park, especially near Granby. Look for signs for national forest access and drive a couple of miles back. Most offer great car camping opportunities.
Arapaho National Recreation Area has several campsites with breathtaking views of Lake Granby. Head north on Highway 34 from town and you’ll reach the lake. Stillwater and Arapaho Bay are some of the most stunning campgrounds.
In-town and featured below under Accommodations, Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains is the best place to camp for those looking for an abundance of amenities.
Read about the camping near Granby and Grand Lake

Lake Granby and Continental Divide Colorado — Continental Divide and calm waters on Lake Granby. Photo by: Don Graham

Fishing –

Lake Granby lies about 8 miles to the north on Highway 34. Much of it is part of the Arapaho National Recreation Area, so there would be a $5 charge for vehicles to enter.
You can follow the Colorado River west of town to Hot Sulphur Springs and onto Kremmling, fishing the whole route.

Hiking – Arapaho National Forest offers many trails around Granby. Look for access points marked by signs along Highway 34 to the north near Grand Lake and also heading south on Highway 40 towards Winter Park.

Granby Colorado Winter Aerial View — Winter aerial of Granby, CO. Photo by: Chris parkes photo

Hot Springs – The nearby town of Hot Sulphur Springs offers a relaxing, hot springs resort retreat only ten miles down Highway 40.

Accommodations

Antler Basin Ranch, Colorado — Antler Basin Ranch in Granby, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/AntlerBasinRanch

Snow Mountain Ranch – With over 8,000 acres of gorgeous land, this YMCA lodge is sure to impress. The property has any outdoor adventure you could ask for, including a nordic center, disc golf, and hiking trails.

Trail Riders Motel – Perfectly located in the heart of Granby, and only a short drive from Granby Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park. All rooms have a mini fridge, free wifi, and a coffee maker.

Antler Basin Ranch – A great private option for families or large groups. Located on 280 acres of scenic land, the ranch has plenty of activities and can sleep 12 people.

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains – This upscale glamping and camping resort sits right between the town and Lake Granby. It’s a fantastic spot with so many different rental options, ranging from Airstreams and cabins to Conestoga wagons and studios.

Read about the best hotels in Granby.

Special Events

Ice fishing on Granby Lake — 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest participants in Granby, CO. Photo by: Granby

Jan – 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest – One of the most popular events in the area, participants spend 1-3 days fishing on Lake Granby, Shadow Mountain Reservoir, and Grand Lake for cash prizes.

Jun-Jul – Rodeo – Stop by the Flying Heels Arena to witness a classic Western rodeo. Featuring events such as barrel racing, bull riding, and kids activities.

Jun-Sep- Farmers Market – Stock up on meat, local produce, honey, and artisan goods at this weekly Tuesday market.

Jul – 4th of July Celebration – Join the community to celebrate this summer holiday with a parade, family fun run, a rodeo, and fireworks.