Travel | Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park

March 02, 2021

http://www.floridanewsline.com/creekline-st-johns/travel-grand-lake-and-rocky-mountain-national-park/
By Debi Lander
[email protected]

John Denver’s “Rocky Mountain High” speaks to the euphoria of the Colorado landscape, capturing serenity when he sings, “The shadow from the starlight is softer than a lullaby, Rocky Mountain high.” You can get that feeling, warmed by ideal summer temperatures and transported by breathtaking scenery — just head to the resort town of Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park. You’ll find them a two-hour drive from Denver.

Grand Lake sits north of the Colorado River headwaters, at the base of Shadow Mountain. The tiny town, established in 1881, boasts a year-round population of only 282, but swells during warm summer months bringing visitors, many of whom return year after year. 

Though small, history runs deep. The village aptly sits on the shores of Grand Lake at the surprising elevation of 8,369 feet. It’s home to the world’s highest yacht club, the Grand Lake Yacht Club. They annually host a race whose competitors vie for the ornate silver, ever so prestigious trophy, donated by legendary tea purveyor but less-well-known yachtsman Sir Thomas J. Lipton. Grand Lake is indeed remarkable, ranking as the deepest and largest natural body of water in Colorado. 

The old-fashioned boardwalks add a touch of Western and boating flare along Grand Avenue. Look for hitching posts and Wild West-style architecture, art galleries, boutiques, and gift shops. Stop into the casual restaurants and watering holes, often featuring live music. 

Naturally, water activities remain the big draw. The marina handles boat rentals of all types: kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, and stand-up paddleboards. The lake offers the perfect place to drop a fishing line in search of cold-water varieties, mainly sockeye salmon and trout.

Landlubbers spend relaxing afternoons on the Grand Lake beach’s sandy shores, enjoying temperatures in the 70s to mid-80s. But only those brave enough dare a swim in the frigid water. 

The Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater offers a contrasting bonus. The long-running theater brings in professional actors and actresses and puts on top-notch full productions of Broadway favorites. 

One of the biggest draws to Grand Lake is its status as the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Colorado’s crown jewel encompasses more than 265,000 acres of wilderness — prime territory for viewing wildlife, hiking, camping, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Trail Ridge Road, nicknamed the “Highway to the Sky,” ranks as the highest continuous paved road in the U.S, connecting Grand Lake to Estes Park. Bring a jacket and get ready to spin up and down 48 miles of twisty, hairpin turns, and steeply graded pavement edging sheer drops.

In no time, you’ll enter the aspen forest at mid-mountain. Snap selfies at the Continental Divide sign along the Milner Pass. The Divide marks the split where rainwater falls either to the East or the West. 

Expect your ears to pop and whoa’s and ohs (or perhaps something stronger) to spill from passengers. Even if you don’t get out of your car, the Rocky Mountain National Park smacks you in the face. The bold scenery envelops you and sends imagination soaring. 

The tree line dwindles, and winds pick up near the summit. Stop at the Alpine Visitors Center (elevation 11,796 feet) to see tundra exhibits speaking to the altitude’s harsh conditions. The Trail Ridge store offers indoor bathrooms, hot coffee, and a National Park gift shop. You can hike a short distance to the trail summit from here. 

Back in the car, begin your descent toward Estes Park, a ride more enthralling than the uphill. The panorama changes around each turn, and thankfully there are many pullouts and small parking lots. Sharp, snow capped mountains, rolling hillsides, and deep valleys extol the mountain beauty and diversity. It’s a Colorado Rocky Mountain high for sure. 

Visit www.bylandersea.com to read more of local travel writer Debi Lander’s stories and travel tips.

Photo courtesy Debi Lander
Driving into Rocky Mountain National Park.

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