Lesser-Known Lake Escapes in the U.S.

Why we love it: Originally called Spirit Lake by the Ute Tribe, Colorado’s largest and deepest body of water is a Front Range gem in summer with its public beach, yacht club, and marinas. Hemmed in on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park, the area offers countless land-based adventures. And the tiny town of Grand Lake oozes old-timey nostalgia.

Adventure intel: Located steps from the historic downtown boardwalk, the Headwaters Marina rents pedal boats ($30 per hour), sports boats ($100 per hour), pontoons (from $140 per hour), and offers scenic, one-hour boat tours ($25). Family-operated Mountain Paddlers Kayak Shak is just in front of the marina and rents single and tandem kayaks (from $30 per hour). Rocky Mountain Park’s west entrance in Grand County is far less trafficked. The Adams Falls East Inlet Trail starts in town. It’s only .8 miles round-trip to reach the cascades. Continue another mile for awesome views of Mount Baldy and another 4.8 miles to reach Lone Pine Lake.

Base: Perched high above the water, Grand Lake Lodge has been welcoming guests since 1921. The cabins, originally purchased from the Sears Roebuck catalog, were recently renovated (from $185). It’s debatable which has the better sunset view: the porch swings or the hot tub and pool.

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