Lake Granby

Discover 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 more than over 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. Beyond its community necessity, it’s also a beloved spot for summer boating, fishing and paddleboarding. Once snow starts falling in winter, ice fishers and skaters flock to the frozen surface, while snowmobilers zip through the expansive network of trails nearby. 

Boating

This massive body of water is brimming with boating options. The Lake Granby Yacht Club offers members the opportunity to race and leisurely boat on the lake's surface all summer and hosts annual galas for visitors to cheer on the sailors. Located at 8,280 feet in elevation, it’s one of the highest yacht clubs in the nation. Already have a boat? There are three ramps located at Lake Granby where you can launch. Or just rent a pontoon from a local outfitter like Beacon Landing Marina or Indian Peaks Marina.

Note: All boats must have a Colorado Aquatic Nuisance Species Stamp and pass a Colorado Parks and Wildlife inspection for zebra and quagga mussels. Visit the CPW Office in Hot Sulphur Springs or contact the office at 970-725-6200 for more information.

Fishing

Lake Granby is regularly stocked with trout and kokanee salmon, keeping anglers busy all year long. Local shops like Granby Bait N’ Tackle will outfit you with all the equipment and bait you need to get out on the water. And if you’re new to the sport (or just want someone else to handle the gear and boat!), you can always get in touch with a local outfitter like Fishing With Bernie or Daybreak Outdoors for an expert-guided excursion.

Note: Fishing licenses are required to fish in the state of Colorado, and they’re easy to get in Grand County. Learn about requirements, fees and places to pick up your documentation through Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Hiking & Outdoor Recreation

Surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park, the Arapahoe National Forest, Arapaho National Recreation Area and the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Lake Granby is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to two wilderness areas and the soaring summits of the Continental Divide attracts hikers, campers, snowmobilers and more. 

Note: Arapaho National Recreation Area requires visitors to display a valid activity pass.

Camping

Camping near Lake Granby is easy, with several established campgrounds along the shore. Pitch a tent at Stillwater Campground or Arapaho Bay Campground — or glamp in cozy cabins with lake views at Arapaho Valley Ranch. Once you wake up, sip coffee in the alpine air and decide which coastal trailhead to hike that day.