Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland — Attraction in Granby

Well, you just have to go and see for yourself! Several spots within the lands have long held deeply sentimental places within my very being-- from memories, "firsts," adventures, and ski trips, to difficult ventures and ominous storms-- these gorgeous forests/lands/ski terrains/campsites, and countless other sights and sites all remain priceless elements of Colorful Colorado; to call this gem of a state Home and not visit these unique, magnificent, and majestic forest lands is...well, sacrilegious- period. Spending time up here ought to be a prerequisite to establishing residence! As for the countless travellers who make the trek out this way- just ask any one of them; all will speak of the indescribable beauty, peace, and intimate connection with Mother Nature that is, frankly, inevitable upon visiting. These areas of the state, like each and every other locale, are undeniably unique and filled to the brim with the very artwork of The Creator of all that Is. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing, and make your way up! (Oh, and seasons do not make for an excuse-- all four are thoroughly experienced here; January, May, August, October-- it matters not one bit, as there is an abundance of indescribable, stunning elements to be seen, smelled, heard, and experienced up...

Beautiful and only a short drive from Denver. If you are traveling through and looking for a cabin, glamping, tent camping, or you have an RV, I recommend Arapahoe Valley Ranch. Be sure to visit Monarch lake right up the road. The 4.5 mile loop hike around it and briefly into the Wilderness is one of the best short hikes in the state. With a mere 213ft elevation gain, and well established trail, it’s great for kids and dogs.

Spend a morning on lake Granby for a great fishing and boating experience. Or plan a picnic on its southern shores and if you are brave enough, take a swim in its brisk waters.

If you are looking to do some shopping and dining, both Estes Park and Grand Lake on opposite ends of Rocky Mountain National Park are excellent options. Grand Lake has more of a standard mountain town feel and boasts some great restaurants and quaint shops and comes with amazing lake views with mount backdrops. While Estes is perhaps one of the most beautiful mountain towns in America and boasts The Stanley Motel, a beautiful river walk, and tons of shopping and dining options.

For the most spectacular views of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, wildlife, and extensive hiking options of every difficulty, be sure visit Rocky Mountain...

Having never hiked a 14er before Grey’s and Torrie’s Peaks were a great place to start. If you want to hike 2 of Colorado’s 14,000 foot peaks in 5-6 hours the Arapaho and Roosevelt Forest is a great place to go. I flew into Denver International Airport that morning rented a car and got to the trail head by 10:30, later than I wanted but I was excited to hit the trail. In order to get to the trail head you have to drive about 20 minutes up a bumpy gravel road, that you might not want to drive your Lexus up, there are a lot of potholes. The trail is very popular so cars lined the road as I got near the start of the trail. The views were amazing as I made my way up the mountain. Much of the trail is a slow incline until you near the last couple thousands feet of elevation. I first reached the summit of Torrie’s Peak, and was going to head back to the car, but because Grey’s Peak wasn’t that far and I had come this far I decided to summit my second 14er of the day. Wow, am I glad I chose to climb Grey’s as well. When I reached the top, two mountain sheep scurried away and the view was amazing. But I was not used to the elevation so my muscles were incredibly sore on the hike down. But it was...