This is my favorite trail! It’s part of RMNP, but the East Inlet Trailhead is actually located on the eastern end of Grand Lake. (So you don’t even need a park pass.) If you hike to Lake Verna, it’s about 13 miles round trip with quite a bit of elevation gain. But fear not, however far you go on this trail, it’s worth it! Adams Falls is less than half a mile from parking lot and Lone Pine Lake is a nice lunch destination.
nps.gov/romo/photos
During the summer, you can enjoy live music and/or outdoor concerts almost every night of the week. They are often free and a lovely way to spend an evening. Since they are outside, the kids can dance and play while adults sit and relax. More details coming soon as schedules are posted!
photos
Grand County has a great summer line-up of Fairs & Festivals. Many are free and most are family-friendly. In the past, we’ve enjoyed a Chocolate Festival, a Family Fun Fair, an awesome July 4th Celebration, and my personal favorite – the Alpine Art Affair. There are also many music-specific festivals and at least one brew-centered fair. (Those are very popular and require tickets!) More details as announced.
photos
Try to wake up for sunrise at least once. The sun rises rather late over the mountains, so it’s not so hard. Take your coffee, tea, and/or dog for a walk around our little lake. Sunset is beautiful anywhere outdoors, but it’s nice to take a quick drive to gazebo at top of hill. Sun still sets in the west, but look to the east for Aspenglow.
Hideaway Park is very centrally located in Winter Park and a great place to find fun all summer long. Great playground. Skate park. Climbing wall. Free concerts and festivals. Pavilion for picnics. Lovely trail through Confluence Park. Great bathrooms and next door to visitor center. Good place to stop when you first arrive in town, especially if anyone needs a break from driving.
playwinterpark.comphotos
Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing at all. As you drive over the hill towards BaseCamp, there’s parking lot on your right for the Fraser to Granby Trail. On your left, you can take a short hike to a nice little gazebo and then just….sit. Enjoy the view and mountain breezes. Great place for watching the sunset as well.