Considered one of the last hidden gems of the American West, Grand County, Colorado, less than two hours from Denver, is a great spot for family travelers to immerse in the great outdoors. We compiled four reasons you and the family should make for the destination this summer:
© Grand County Tourism Authority
1. Lake Activities Galore
While many mountain destinations across the country offer water activities, Grand County is home to Colorado’s largest natural lake, Grand Lake, making for endless opportunity. The county also features sites like Lake Granby Shadow Mountain Lake, Wolford Mountain Reservoir and Williams Fork Reservoir, meaning families have more than one choice for a day out on the water. These lakes promise days full of kayaking, fishing, paddleboarding, paddle boating, sailing and more. You can even rent a watercraft.
2. Dude Ranches
Give the kids an authentic dude ranch experience. Grand County boasts various dude ranches with unforgettable experiences like stargazing, horseback riding, s’mores and more. And with seven dude ranches to choose from, families will find something suitable for everyone, especially in summer.
© Grand County Tourism Authority
3. Rocky Mountain National Park
Complete a visit to Grand County by heading to Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail Ridge Road, open seasonally from late spring to early fall, encompasses 48 miles of scenery from Grand Lake to Estes Park. Another great trail is Adams Falls Trail, a mile-long walk with views of waterfalls, valleys and mountains.
© Grand County Tourism Authority
4. Summer Festivals and Events
There’s always something going on in Grand County in summer. From May to September, the county hosts at least one rodeo event every week and, come July 4, families can enjoy spectacular fireworks (either from land or boat). Other popular events throughout the year include Hot Sulphur Days, Blues from the Top and Winter Park Jazz Festival.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
May 18, 2026Marriott Opens Boise’s Largest Hotel, First Dual-Branded Property
Family travelers have new options in Idaho. Last week Pennbridge Hospitality opened AC Hotel Boise Downtown and Element by Marriott Boise Downtown, the largest and first dual-branded property in Boise, Idaho.
Sponsored Content
Best of Both Worlds
Enjoy the best of both worlds when you fly with TAP Air Portugal thanks to the Portugal Stopover program. With the program, TAP passengers, whether traveling for business, leisure or both, can stop in Portugal for up to 10 days at no additional airfare on the way to their final destination. What does this mean for travelers wishing to explore by both land and sea? It means after flying to Portugal with TAP and experiencing the country in an entirely new way, travelers can then embark on scenic river and ocean cruises from Portugal’s port cities, or fly with TAP to another European destination.
Hotels
May 18, 2026Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Launches Family Adventure Package
This summer, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island partners with Outside Hilton Head, the Lowcountry’s premier outdoor adventure company, to enhance family travelers’ experiences through seamless access to the island’s top eco-adventures.
Adult Children
May 14, 2026Become a Kid Again at These 4 Fun Hotels
Family travel doesn’t have to be just about kids; these four hotels around the world allow adults to become kids again through unplugged action adventures; elevated, nostalgia-driven retreats; and 5-star resorts with reimagined summer camp experiences.
Hotels
May 14, 20265 Hotels Where Families Should Stay for Graduation Weekend
The right hotel can help ensure a celebratory weekend like college graduation becomes a happy memory that lasts as long as the degree. These five properties offer something beyond a place to sleep, providing a distinct backdrop for families ready to celebrate in style.
Hotels
May 13, 2026Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts Announces Kids Stay Free Promotion
Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts has a new — and unbeatable — sale for family travelers. This summer, Bahia Principe Explore launched a special offer where the first child stays free at Explore brand all-inclusive properties across the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
ShareThis