Serene views, incredible wildlife, and easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park await.

You won’t see any stoplights or chain stores in this unassuming lake town.

Up until now, Grand Lake has been kept a bit of a secret.

A shoreline view of Shadow Mountain Lake on the western end of Rocky Mountain National Park at Grand Lake Colorado.

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“Maybe a little too intentionally so,” one local told me.

Here’s how to plan the perfect trip to Grand Lake, Colorado.

Some of the most beautiful terrain in Colorado lies withinRocky Mountain National Park.

Views while ascending and descending the Rocky Mountain National Park’s Alpine Visitor Center, in Grand Lake, Colorado

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Get on the water.

Catch a Broadway show.

Each summer, the theater puts on three Broadway musicals that rotate nightly.

Kayaking and boating on the water in Grand Lake

Thomas Cooper/Courtesy of gograndlake.com

Go on a horseback ride.

Thunder Horse Outfittersrescues horses from adoption agencies and trains them for riding.

Take in scenic views in the company of these majestic creatures all experience levels are accommodated.

Horseback riding with Thunder Horse Outfitters

Courtesy of gograndlake.com

Partake in Grand Lake’s local festivals and traditions.

The close-knit community takes its traditions seriously.

In the summer, pop by the park for the live concerts on Wednesdays or bingo on weekend evenings.

Town and view of Grand Lake.

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Check out upcoming events during your visithere.

September is an ideal time for wildlife spotting and seeing fall foliage.

Where to Stay in Grand Lake

Accommodations in Grand Lake are more summer camp than luxury resort.

Interior of a dining area at Grand Lake Lodge

Courtesy of gograndlake.com

You’ll find plenty of on-site activities like horseback riding, ATV rentals, and flapjack breakfasts.

For a relaxing, rustic retreat, book a stay at the historicGrand Lake Lodge.

Larger groups traveling together may prefer to reserve their own slice of lakefront serenity on Airbnb or Vrbo.

Exterior of the Winding River Resort

Thomas Cooper/Courtesy of gograndlake.com

Where to Eat in Grand Lake

The Waterfrontmakes for the perfect lakeside lunch spot.

The recently reopened restaurant serves casual new American cuisine on a gorgeous patio including the best burger in town.

Miyauchi’s Snack Baron the boardwalk is your stop for a sweet treat.

The deck at The Waterfront

Courtesy of gograndlake.com

Ask for a window seat to soak in those views.

Or, grab a cocktail at the bar before dinner and enjoy it fireside on the Deer Deck.