Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway

The prospect of gold disturbed everyone's minds in the late 1800's. And what better place for collecting gold, than the mighty Colorado River, which carved the Grand Canyon in Arizona? However, as time went on, the disappointment of poverty forced miners to reconsider their options. With an area flaunting the Colorado River and three large lakes, what better than to open resort towns to offer rest and relaxation. Others opted to farming and ranching, and even today continuing this use of the land. Discover the beauty of the Colorado River and surrounding areas on this 80 mile byway, beginning in Granby and traveling southwest to Hot Sulphur Springs, Kremmling, and ending in State Bridge.

The byway pays tribute to one of the mightiest rivers in the Western United States. It begins at the headwaters of the Colorado River. Though the byway only travels 80 miles of the river, the river itself runs another 1,320 miles to provide water to the southwestern states of Utah, Wyoming, California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. The river also has many points where it resembles a soothing brook, tumbling down green meadows and into gorges.

Be sure to visit the Hot Sulphur Springs, where once the Ute Indians came to cure rheumatism and arthritis. Many legends still surround these areas where Native Americans lived and hunted. Today, these springs still warm and soothe the body.

Don't miss the Three Lakes Reservoir. Here, Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Lake Granby make up the largest reservoirs in the area, providing abounding water recreational activities. Fishing, camping, boating, hiking, and swimming are some favorite activities of the area. The Colorado River also boasts Gold Metal Water. This phrase means that the river is home to many trout considered to be trophy size. From Granby downstream to Troublesome Creek, many try their luck at catching a trophy trout. The river also provides rafting, as well as canoeing.

Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do

Allington Inn & Suites of Kremmling
The newest hotel in Kremmling with the most amenities at an affordable price. Enjoy deluxe continental breakfast, the only indoor pool in town, hot tub, WI-FI, fitness center, and 24-hour guest services.

Canyon Motel Lodging, The
In Hot Sulphur Springs, near Grand Lake & Winter Park. Rooms with comforts of home, kitchens, pets OK. Walk to hot springs (discount guest passes to 24 pools) & Colorado River. Romance packages.

Grand County Fishing Company, LLC
The most experienced guides in Winter Park/Grand Lake taking you to some of the best waters in the West. Wade or cast while floating through red rock canyons, we will make you happy & the fish less so!

High Country Stampede Rodeo
Every Saturday in July & August. In Fraser at County Road 73. EVENTS: Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Saddle Bronco Riding, Bareback Riding, Team Roping, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, and Bull Riding.

Hotel Eastin Kremmling, CO
A Rocky Mountain Landmark in Kremmling - Built in 1906, unique, charming hotel lovingly maintained by the present owner, Marlys Egge. "Quaint - the kind of hotel where grandma honeymooned."

Melody Lodge Cabins & MLC Fishing Service
At Green Mountain Reservoir in north Summit County, in Colorado's ranch country. 5 miles to Cataract Lake & Falls. All the best summer recreation: hike, boat, fish, hunt, jeep, watch wildlife & birds, relax.

On The Trail Rentals: ATVs & Snowmobiles
Enjoy unguided snowmobile rentals on 130 miles of groomed trails near Grand lake. Located at the trailhead! In summer the trails turn into great ATV Trails, start your adventure here with an ATV rentals.

Rusty Spurr Ranch
A horse ride with us will make you feel as though you stepped back in time 150 years to the days when the Ute Indians rode the very same land near Kremmling, a short drive from Summit County.

Williams Fork Lodging
A tranquil retreat or a recreation paradise, 40 acres, near Hot Sulphur Springs, offers something for everyone! Quiet, secluded, means no light pollution to spoil the view of the Milky Way from the hot tub.

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