Grand Lake

A historic gem and growing artistic hub

By Amanda McCracken

The town of Grand Lake, established in 1881, is a treasure trove of mining, pioneer and Native American history and only a two-to-three-hour drive from Boulder. Colorado’s beloved and mythical Grand Lake is the largest and deepest natural body of water in Colorado. 

Once known as the “Western Riviera,” Grand Lake boasts a plethora of year-round outdoor activities on land and water. From the comfort of your lodge, you can snowmobile straight into town or Rocky Mountain National Park. There are hundreds of miles of trails where you can snowshoe, run, hike or cross-country ski. If you want assistance trying a new sport, there are ranger-led tours. And, of course, the lake offers several activities, including ice skating and hockey in the winter, plus kayaking, fishing, scenic boat tours and swimming in the summer. 

Roots

The historic Grand Lake Yacht Club, founded in 1902, is a private club that hosts sailing races. It claims to be the world’s highest registered yacht club at 8,269 feet above sea level. It’s no wonder this quiet town has attracted the company of the rich and famous seeking solitude. A couple who have owned coveted homes on the lake include Tim Allen and the Hallmark family. 

The historic Grand Lake Lodge hosts guests year-round in the newly renovated mountainside bungalows, originally purchased from the Sears, Roebuck & Co. catalog more than 100 years ago. The Lodge’s Huntington House Tavern features an open kitchen, allowing guests to sit by the fire and watch chefs prepare their grilled elk chops beneath antler chandeliers. Join community members for yoga on the deck overlooking the lake in the warmer months. 

Grand Lake is also known as Spirit Lake in honor of the Ute women and children who reportedly sunk to their deaths on a raft in their tribe’s attempt to protect them from a battle with the Arapahoe. Some say when the lake freezes, they can hear the cries of these drowned souls. 

Creative District

Grand Lake may be known for its natural beauty and many recreational activities, but it’s also blossoming into a hub of artists fostering creativity in the community. In 2018, the Colorado government awarded Grand Lake the title of Creative Arts District. Along with this honor came grant money to foster creativity while developing economic resilience. 

Thanks to the grant, one unique project that emerged is the Rocky Mountain Folk School, which offers hands-on classes focused on preserving local art and culture. The school will soon be housed in the Creative Workshop Hub building, currently under construction, where other partners like the Rocky Mountain Wooden Boat School will also hold workshops. 

The folk school has recently partnered with the Cowboy Trade Association, developed to celebrate and support the traditional cowboy artisans in the Northern Rockies. Classes like silversmithing, saddle making and horsehair braiding preserve the heritage of these artisans. Workshops aim to draw learners of all ages with master artisans. By collaborating with schools, colleges, mentorship programs and artisans across the Northern Rockies, this initiative will serve as a cultural hub that strengthens the visibility and viability of these unique art forms.

Community Support 

Gillian Butler Horne, marketing and program director of the folk school, acknowledges the community’s role in supporting Grand Lake in becoming a Creative Arts District. The Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre provides a stage for world-class performances like Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and Boulder Ballet. The Western Riviera provides housing for the talented artists and performers who visit Grand Lake, as well as amazing off-season deals for visitors. The historic Community House, built in the early 1900s, serves as a lively gathering place for concerts, comedy nights, Central City Opera performances and historical talks.

While Grand Lake is focused on developing a thriving future, it’s also aware of its responsibility to preserve its environment. That’s why it’s collaborating with the International Dark Sky Association to become a Colorado community dedicated to achieving International Dark Sky Place certification.  

“Grand Lake is a rare gem—a true small western town with genuine warmth, breathtaking beauty and a charm that stays with you forever,” says Butler Horne, who was born and raised in the town. “Visit once, and the memories of its people and stunning landscapes will call you back again and again.”