Grand County Colorado in the summer time. It’s filled with boat rides, horseback rides, hikes and all the adventure you know you’ll find out west.

I recently visited Grand County and had a blast!  The city of Grand Lake is where I started with a stay at the Western Riviera.  My room facing the lake was the perfect spot to take in all the action on the lake and wake up to a beautiful view… that also means I ended my day with the evening glow on the lake.

Next I was off to explore one of our National Parks.  Rocky Mountain National Park is exactly where you’ll head for hiking trails, picnic spots, gazing across the mountain range and exploring historic settlements too.  It’s all there.  And, after the traumatic fires last Oct. things are greening up and coming back.  It’s the perfect time to head West and support the areas which were so devastated by the fire. They’re open and welcoming guests.

My last stop was at the C  Lazy  U Luxury Guest Ranch.  It is five start treatment and you feel like you’re hanging out with family.  I met so many people, both guests and staff.  It was truly a dream come true.  I’ve had the ranch on my radar for several years and was honored to have a chance to visit and …… wait for it….. have my first horseback ride in over 35 years.  Wow!  They paired me with Grey Bert and we had the best time.

Check out the show for interviews with Michael Tompkins owner of Western Riviera Hotel in Grand Lake, David Craig Manager of C Lazy U Ranch and Kyle Patterson with Rocky Mountain National Park.

Photos from my trip to Grand County

The Western Riviera Hotel, located right on the shores of Grand Lake.

My balcony overlooking the lake.

View from my room and balcony outside my room number 29.

Downtown Grand Lake

Early morning boat ride on Grand Lake

Headwaters can take you on a tour around Grand Lake

Beautiful homes on the lake

Many homes have water sporting gear and some homes are available for short term rentals

We spotted a moose on our morning tour around Grand Lake

Take a tour in the Kaufman House Museum in downtown Grand Lake.

After the devastating fires in 2020, the are is showing great new growth.

Visit an historic Holzwarth family settlement inside Rocky Mountain Park

The historic Holzwarth Family settlement

Read about the Native Americans who once called the area home

One you reach the top of the road, you’ll find the visitor center. Stop in for additional info, shopping or a quick bit to eat.

Great views along Trail Ridge Road where you can stop and take in the scenery, marvel at the rock formations and tundra.

C Lazy U Luxury Guest Ranch. I have arrived. In the photo is the lodge where meals are served and the place where you want to be early morning for coffee….. served ranch style.

Pool side at C Lazy U Rach. Not shown in the photo, but there is a great ice cream spot by the pool.

Inside my cabin. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a day of activities.

David Craig, Manger of C Lazy U Luxury Guest Ranch.

One of C Lazy U’s 200 horses ready to ride.

A little break for a quick bite.

Ranch wranglers bringing in the horses for a day of riding and lessons.

The morning jingle where the horses come in from pasture with the wranglers leading the way.

Glamping anyone? Covered wagons are perfect for experience the C Lazy U lifestyle.

Spend time with the horses.

Spa time overlooking the pastures with the tranquil sounds of the Colorado river.

Relax and take in the scenery.

Spa – relax – soak – reflect- serenity and harmony

Websites –

Rocky Mountain National Park, Western Riviera Hotel and C Lazy U Ranch

www.nps.gov/romo

www.westernriv.com

www.clazyu.com

Also check out our article on Vail Colorado –

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