A Perfect Day Renting a Pontoon Boat at Trail Ridge Marina
Exploring Shadow Mountain and Grand Lake with the Family
Our adventure began with a bright, sunny morning, we had booked a pontoon boat at Trail Ridge Marina located on Shadow Mountain Lake. Excitement was buzzing in the air as our family and friends gathered at the marina, prepared for a day of fun, exploration, and making memories on the water. With two energetic kids, aged 13 and 11, the day promised to be an unforgettable blend of relaxation and adventure. Trail Ridge Marina is the only marina that serves both Shadow Mountain and Grand Lake.
After a quick safety briefing and some friendly tips from the marina staff, we set sail on our pontoon boat, gliding away from the dock. Shadow Mountain is not very deep and the kids were thrilled to be on the water, there are some areas of the lake that you will want to avoid so pay attention. We slowly cruised through the canal. This narrow waterway connects Shadow Mountain Lake to the stunning Grand Lake and offers a unique perspective on the area.
Cruising Through the Canal: A Journey of Beauty and Wonder
The canal journey was a pleasant surprise. We found ourselves winding through a corridor bordered by beautiful lakefront homes, each more charming than the last. The houses along the canal are a fascinating mix of quaint cottages and modern lakefront estates, each with its own character. Some even had private docks with colorful kayaks and paddleboards ready for their next adventure. Our children eagerly pointed out their favorite houses.
As we navigated through the serene, tree-lined canal, we couldn’t help but notice the incredible stillness of the water. It mirrored the blue sky perfectly, with only the occasional ripple from our pontoon to break its surface. With every twist and turn, we marveled at the peacefulness around us, broken only by the distant sounds of nature—birds singing, leaves rustling in the breeze, and the occasional fish jumping.
Entering Grand Lake: Awe at the Majesty of Colorado’s Largest Natural Lake
Before long, we emerged from the canal and entered Grand Lake, Colorado’s largest natural body of water. The sight was breathtaking—crystal-clear waters stretched before us, framed by rugged mountains that seemed to cradle the lake. The kids were eager to jump in for a swim, but first, we had a destination in mind: the town of Grand Lake.
Cruising across the lake, we spotted a variety of other boats—everything from small fishing vessels to luxurious speedboats. We even saw a couple of brave souls paddling kayaks and paddle boards. The atmosphere was lively, yet somehow still serene. As we neared the Grand Lake marina, we could see the charming waterfront town bustling with life. We found a spot to moor our pontoon and set off to explore the town.
A Sweet Stop: Ice Cream by Grand Lake
One of the first things we did after stepping off the boat was to indulge in a family favorite—ice cream! We made our way to a quaint little ice cream shop not far from the marina, where the kids eagerly debated which flavors to choose. There’s something uniquely wonderful about enjoying a cold, creamy treat while taking in the stunning views of the lake and mountains.
We strolled along the boardwalk with our cones in hand, watching ducks bobbing in the water and people fishing from the docks. The kids enjoyed spotting the colorful shops and imagining living in this charming lakeside town. It was one of those simple, perfect moments where everything felt just right.
A Glimpse into Grand Lake’s Rich History
While enjoying our ice cream, we couldn’t help but be captivated by the history of Grand Lake. This little town has a fascinating past that stretches back to the late 1800s, when it began as a mining settlement. As the mining industry faded, the area transformed into a destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and recreation. In fact, Grand Lake itself was once the primary mode of transportation for people coming to visit Rocky Mountain National Park before roads were developed.
Grand Lake is also known for its rich Native American history. The Ute tribes were the first known inhabitants of the area, and they used the lake for fishing and the surrounding mountains for hunting. As we wandered through the town, it was easy to imagine the olden days when pioneers and indigenous people shared this beautiful land.
Bookings are highly recommended – Click here for the Trail Ridge Marina Website