Lake Granby and the Rocky Mountains illuminated by a pinkish, dusk sky

LAKE GRANBY

Located on the Colorado River, just 5 miles outside of the town of Granby, Lake Granby encompasses 7,256 surface acres, and is the third largest body of water in Colorado. The lake offers 40 miles of shoreline and along with its two sister lakes, Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake, offers more than 150 miles of scenic shoreline for camping, fishing or hiking.

Lake Granby was created in 1950 by the erection of Granby Dam as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, which aims to collect around 200,000 acre-feet of water each year. Lake Granby is the largest storage reservoir of the project's 12 reservoirs. Boating, fishing and paddle boarding are all popular summer activities on Lake Granby. Once snow starts to fall, the region's impressive network of snowmobile trails is a major winter draw. 

Mom and son sharing a paddleboard on Lake Granby

Things to Do on the Lake

Located on the Colorado River, Lake Granby is a massive body of water that's brimming with options for boaters, fishermen, and other outdoor lovers. The Lake Granby Yacht Club offers members the opportunity to race and leisurely boat on the lake's surface all summer. Located at 8,280 feet in elevation, the Lake Granby Yacht Club is one of the higest in the nation. In addition to Lake Granby Yacht Club's boating, there are three boat launches located at Lake Granby so you can launch your own boat during the summer months.

In addition, Lake Granby is continually stocked with trout and kokanee salmon, keeping anglers busy all season long—Make sure you're planning to catch the big one next time you're in the area! Lake Granby, Grand Lake, and Shadow Mountian Reservoir are three of Grand County's most popular lakes for water sports and outdoor recreation. Learn more about boating in Grand County

Things to Do Near the Lake

Surrounded by the Arapahoe National Forest, the Arapaho National Recreation Area, and the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Lake Granby is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Because of its pristine location near the town of Granby, between two wilderness areas and just below the Continental Divide, the area attracts hikers, campers, snowmobilers and more. 

With about 260 campsites on or near the Lake Granby shore, camping is a must-do. Outdoor enthusiasts can camp near the lake's shores at night, then find a nearby coastal trailhead to hike during the day. During the winter, look for snowmobile trails to explore the area's gorgeous Rocky Mountain terrain.

Events Near Lake Granby

The Grand Lake Yacht Club often hosts events on the lake for members. Check out their current events calendar to see what's happening! In addition, other events are often hosted on or near Lake Granby. View the Grand County Colorado Tourism Board calendar to see what's coming up!

The local experience

Shopping

Shopping in the Granby area has never been better. Whatever you need, from groceries to furniture and everything in between, Granby's got it. There are shops with music and shops with clothing. There are tackle stores and hardware stores. You can find boots or birthday cards. The stores keep all sorts of treasures behind their doors. Enjoy!

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Dining

Visit Granby and you can eat in Germany, Italy, Mexico, China or the good ole USA. All the restaurants in town have hamburgers on the menu, but their specialties vary. Whatever you crave, you'll probably find it, so prepare your taste buds for a deliciously good time in Granby's pleasant, comfortable, friendly restaurants.

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