Mountain Attractions

We encourage guests to use this opportunity to reconnect with the natural environment. In addition to special on-site program offerings, workshops and interpretive hikes, Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) offer a variety of other activities:

Hiking

  • Within 100 yards of Shadowcliff lie the RMNP trailheads for the North Inlet and Tonahutu trails which join the Front Range and western slope. With great destinations from one mile to 18 miles, these are major hiking and camping opportunities.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park offers numerous nature and wildlife hikes and lectures only a few minutes drive from Shadowcliff.
  • East Inlet Trailhead is one mile from Shadowcliff. An easy half hour walk takes visitors to beautiful Adams Falls, fifteen minutes farther to a flowering meadow. East Inlet also offers more intensive destinations such as Lone Pine Lake, Lake Verna and other alpine lakes.
  • Shadow Mountain Trail to the historic fire lookout at the top of Shadow Mountain is a three to four hour hike offering a spectacular view of the valley and three lakes.
  • Shadow Mountain Lake provides an easy walk along the east shore of Shadow Mountain Lake past osprey nesting areas and abundant wildlife habitats.
  • Shadowcliff staff members lead at least one interpretive hike each week that is free to our guests.
  • Rocky Mountain Park Rangers provide many guided hikes and lectures each week within a short drive or hike from Shadowcliff

Excursions

  • Monarch Lake lies at the far southeast end of Lake Granby off Highway 34 over the dam. Hike the trail to Monarch Lake and access many trails into Indian Peaks Wilderness.
  • Trail Ridge Road is a day-long trip through Rocky Mountain National Park over the Continental Divide into Estes Park and Bear Lake. The Alpine Visitors Center is located near the summit, and descriptive tapes of the area's history are available at Shadowcliff.
  • Corona Pass Road is a one time railroad bed that crossed the Continental Divide before the Moffat Tunnel was constructed. Spectacular view! The entrance is located east of Winter Park.
  • The Holswarth Historic Site, a homestead preservation with an original log home and outbuildings is about a ten minute drive up Trail Ridge Road and a fifteen minute level walk to the ranch. Volunteers provide daily tours.

Other Leisure Opportunities

  • Mountain Biking - This is what mountain bikes were made for, with convenient rentals in Grand Lake Village and many easily accessible trails.
  • Golf - That little white ball really soars at 8500 feet with many options in Grand County!
  • Horseback Riding - Several stables offer guided tours on horseback, including trails in Rocky Mountain National Park.
  • River Rafting - Investigate whitewater up close and personal!
  • Boating - canoes, outboards, inboards and pontoons on Grand Lake.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - See the mountains from the air.
  • Four-Wheel Tours - Old fashioned storytelling in a mountain environment.
  • Fishing - You'll need a Colorado Fishing License if you are 16 years old or over.
  • Bowling - When you need a break from nature!
  • Boardwalk - Shopping and fun in Grand Lake and nearby destinations.
  • Windsurfing - On Lake Granby.
  • Sailboat Racing - On Lake Granby and Grand Lake.
  • Kauffman House Museum - In the town of Grand Lake.
  • Nearby Winter Park - Alpine Slide, Restaurants, and Shops.
  • Picnics - On the public beach, parks or Shadowcliff grounds.
  • Visit to old Grand Lake Cemetery, north of town on Western Road.
  • Arts and Crafts Fair in June and other Village activities throughout the season.
  • Summer Theater in Grand Lake Village, much acclaimed Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre.
  • Western weekend and Buffalo BBQ Parade and 5K Run in July.
  • Sailboat competitions on Grand Lake for the prestigious Lipton Cup in August.
  • Live music in Grand Lake and surrounding towns.
  • Delicious cuisine from the many excellent restaurants in Grand Lake and nearby locations.
  • Ice cream! Ice cream! Ice cream!