Janice’s Guidebook to the Backcountry of Kremmling, CO
Outdoor Adventure
True backcountry skiing. Bluebird Backcountry has zero chairlifts. Instead, skiers and snowboarders make their way uphill under their own power following pre-set skin tracks. Instructors and guides are on hand for backcountry and avalanche education. And then there’s the fun part: ripping skins and skiing or riding back to the base.
Bluebird Backcountry
12210 Colorado 14True backcountry skiing. Bluebird Backcountry has zero chairlifts. Instead, skiers and snowboarders make their way uphill under their own power following pre-set skin tracks. Instructors and guides are on hand for backcountry and avalanche education. And then there’s the fun part: ripping skins and skiing or riding back to the base.
The Wolford Mountain Recreation Area is well maintained with facilities allowing visitors to enjoy many outdoor activities in and around the reservoir. There is a large parking area with bathrooms on the west side of Wolford Mountain Reservoir, just off of Highway 40.
Biking: Across the reservoir from the main parking area, the Wolford Overlook Trail and Little Wolford Mountain Trail permit mountain bike usage. The trail system extends eastward, doubling as a popular snowmobile area in the winter.
Birding: Throughout the summer, but especially in the fall, the Wolford Mountain Reservoir is home to many species of waterbirds and it’s not uncommon to spot ducks, gulls, grebes, and even loons in and around the man-made lake.
Boating: There are no restrictions on boating on the Wolford Mountain Reservoir. Motorized, non-motorized, jet skis, water skis, and all other watercraft are permitted. Most popularly, boats access the boat ramp near the campground, marina, and main parking area. Non-motorized boats can also access the reservoir near the dam.
The lake usually opens to boats on May 15th. Boat rentals are available at the marina including pontoon boats and stand up paddle board/kayak hybrids. The former includes fuel and some allow pets, while others do not.
Fishing: The Wolford Mountain Reservoir is a well-stocked fishing destination all year round. In the winter, anglers flock to the reservoir for the annual ice fishing contest. A Colorado hunting and fishing license is required for fishing in the Wolford Mountain Reservoir, which yields high quantities of rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon.
Possession limitations and restricted areas apply. Fishing is popular both in the reservoir as well as below the dam along the Muddy Creek Fishing Access Trail. Read about ice fishing at Wolford Reservoir.
Hiking: If you’d like to stretch your legs, the Wolford Reservoir Trail is a great way to enjoy the scenery on foot. Alternatively, climbing up Wolford Mountain via the Wolford Overlook Trail is a great way to take in panoramic views of the area after a challenging upwards hike.
Picnicking: Picnic tables and bathrooms are available near the swimming beach within the day-use area. Although an entrance fee is required, facilities are kept very clean and the views are quite pleasant.
Swimming: There is a designated swimming area in the Wolford Mountain Reservoir. It is located on the west side of the lake near the day-use parking area.
Wolford Mountain Reservoir
The Wolford Mountain Recreation Area is well maintained with facilities allowing visitors to enjoy many outdoor activities in and around the reservoir. There is a large parking area with bathrooms on the west side of Wolford Mountain Reservoir, just off of Highway 40.
Biking: Across the reservoir from the main parking area, the Wolford Overlook Trail and Little Wolford Mountain Trail permit mountain bike usage. The trail system extends eastward, doubling as a popular snowmobile area in the winter.
Birding: Throughout the summer, but especially in the fall, the Wolford Mountain Reservoir is home to many species of waterbirds and it’s not uncommon to spot ducks, gulls, grebes, and even loons in and around the man-made lake.
Boating: There are no restrictions on boating on the Wolford Mountain Reservoir. Motorized, non-motorized, jet skis, water skis, and all other watercraft are permitted. Most popularly, boats access the boat ramp near the campground, marina, and main parking area. Non-motorized boats can also access the reservoir near the dam.
The lake usually opens to boats on May 15th. Boat rentals are available at the marina including pontoon boats and stand up paddle board/kayak hybrids. The former includes fuel and some allow pets, while others do not.
Fishing: The Wolford Mountain Reservoir is a well-stocked fishing destination all year round. In the winter, anglers flock to the reservoir for the annual ice fishing contest. A Colorado hunting and fishing license is required for fishing in the Wolford Mountain Reservoir, which yields high quantities of rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon.
Possession limitations and restricted areas apply. Fishing is popular both in the reservoir as well as below the dam along the Muddy Creek Fishing Access Trail. Read about ice fishing at Wolford Reservoir.
Hiking: If you’d like to stretch your legs, the Wolford Reservoir Trail is a great way to enjoy the scenery on foot. Alternatively, climbing up Wolford Mountain via the Wolford Overlook Trail is a great way to take in panoramic views of the area after a challenging upwards hike.
Picnicking: Picnic tables and bathrooms are available near the swimming beach within the day-use area. Although an entrance fee is required, facilities are kept very clean and the views are quite pleasant.
Swimming: There is a designated swimming area in the Wolford Mountain Reservoir. It is located on the west side of the lake near the day-use parking area.
Rabbit Ears Peak is a very recognizable and well-known summit in northwestern Colorado. The remnants of an old volcanic plug, the peak resembles less of its namesake than in the past due to gradual erosion. Several years ago portions of the east tower fell, causing the peak to look even less like rabbit ears. That said, the peak is still very recognizable and is a very popular destination in the area. Easy access and an easy hike also contribute to the popularity. Visiting the base of the summit of Rabbit Ears Peak provides an excellent day hike for all abilities. The peak is located in the Routt National Forest and according to some sources, forms the western boundary of the Rabbit Ears Range, which is in fact a sub range of the larger Front Range.
Experience this 5.5-mile out-and-back trail . Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 37 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are June through August. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
The route to Rabbit Ears Peak begins near Dumont Lake, just west of Rabbit Ears Pass (9,573’) on US Route 40. Bear north on the well-maintained, gravel pitch toward Dumont Lake, but instead of bearing left to the lake and picnic area, continue straight, then take the second left. Many hikers park here, but it is possible to continue another ¼ mile up another gravel road to the start. Bear right at the first fork (there is, amusingly, a rabbit-shaped sign marking the way to Rabbit Ears), then immediately park on the left or right. (Note: The road continues beyond but quickly becomes a 4-wheel-drive track.)
Rabbit Ears pass can get very bad in winter as this area of Colorado is one of the wettest and snowiest in the state! Drive safe!
Rabbit Ears Peak Trailhead
FS-311. 1Rabbit Ears Peak is a very recognizable and well-known summit in northwestern Colorado. The remnants of an old volcanic plug, the peak resembles less of its namesake than in the past due to gradual erosion. Several years ago portions of the east tower fell, causing the peak to look even less like rabbit ears. That said, the peak is still very recognizable and is a very popular destination in the area. Easy access and an easy hike also contribute to the popularity. Visiting the base of the summit of Rabbit Ears Peak provides an excellent day hike for all abilities. The peak is located in the Routt National Forest and according to some sources, forms the western boundary of the Rabbit Ears Range, which is in fact a sub range of the larger Front Range.
Experience this 5.5-mile out-and-back trail . Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 37 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are June through August. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
The route to Rabbit Ears Peak begins near Dumont Lake, just west of Rabbit Ears Pass (9,573’) on US Route 40. Bear north on the well-maintained, gravel pitch toward Dumont Lake, but instead of bearing left to the lake and picnic area, continue straight, then take the second left. Many hikers park here, but it is possible to continue another ¼ mile up another gravel road to the start. Bear right at the first fork (there is, amusingly, a rabbit-shaped sign marking the way to Rabbit Ears), then immediately park on the left or right. (Note: The road continues beyond but quickly becomes a 4-wheel-drive track.)
Rabbit Ears pass can get very bad in winter as this area of Colorado is one of the wettest and snowiest in the state! Drive safe!
Food scene
Brewery, distillery and restaurant. Relaxed atmosphere serving American fare. A favorite local restaurant.
9 moradores locais recomendam
The Dean West
207 Central StBrewery, distillery and restaurant. Relaxed atmosphere serving American fare. A favorite local restaurant.
Coffee, smoothies, ice cream, assorted baked goods and breakfast burritos (all day!) located in the town of Kremmling. A great reason to drive into town!
The name "Big Shooter" is, the owner's, nickname from his former days of bicycle racing for the Colorado Team called "The Shooter's". Since Kremmling is an old west, cowboy town, his nickname was adopted for the coffee shop, and came up with a cowboy logo to go with the theme.
8 moradores locais recomendam
Big Shooter Coffee
311 Park AveCoffee, smoothies, ice cream, assorted baked goods and breakfast burritos (all day!) located in the town of Kremmling. A great reason to drive into town!
The name "Big Shooter" is, the owner's, nickname from his former days of bicycle racing for the Colorado Team called "The Shooter's". Since Kremmling is an old west, cowboy town, his nickname was adopted for the coffee shop, and came up with a cowboy logo to go with the theme.
Great authentic Mexican fare. They have an extensive menu, including pizza. The steak tacos are our favorite.
Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant
109 6th StGreat authentic Mexican fare. They have an extensive menu, including pizza. The steak tacos are our favorite.
American homestyle dishes in a rustic, family friendly setting serving lunch and dinner. Come in for a cold beer or a drink from full bar! Happy hour runs from 4-6 pm. The kitchen serves food until 10 pm.
Grand Old West
104 U.S. 40American homestyle dishes in a rustic, family friendly setting serving lunch and dinner. Come in for a cold beer or a drink from full bar! Happy hour runs from 4-6 pm. The kitchen serves food until 10 pm.
A true small town breakfast dining experience, this is as authentic as it gets! Friendly laid back atmosphere.
Moose Cafe
115 W Park AveA true small town breakfast dining experience, this is as authentic as it gets! Friendly laid back atmosphere.
Middle Park Meat Company's food truck known as Middle Park Meat Wagon. Pizza and barbecue, need I say more? Delicious locally smoked BBQ offerings as well as sandwiches and burgers. They recently introduced their "Mustang Mania" pizza offering.
Locally raised meats can be found in the store. Fresh hand cut steaks, apple cured pork chops, bacon, brats, sides and so much more!
Call ahead. Hours vary.
Middle Park Meat Co
1107 CO-9Middle Park Meat Company's food truck known as Middle Park Meat Wagon. Pizza and barbecue, need I say more? Delicious locally smoked BBQ offerings as well as sandwiches and burgers. They recently introduced their "Mustang Mania" pizza offering.
Locally raised meats can be found in the store. Fresh hand cut steaks, apple cured pork chops, bacon, brats, sides and so much more!
Call ahead. Hours vary.
Day Trips
Steamboat Springs is a bustling mountain resort town with indie flair and Western appeal.
Located about 50 miles (about 1-hr drive) from the A-frame, Steamboat Springs is a day trip experience. Many indie shops and restaurants line the walkable historic downtown.
Skiing/Snowboarding: Spend a day skiing or snowboarding on "champagne powder" at Steamboat Ski Resort. Howelsen Hill Ski Area is a gem if you want a smaller local ski hill experience.
Hot Springs: Steamboat is famous for its various hot springs. Most notable is Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs. A natural hot springs paradise set along a mountain creek in Steamboat Springs. Built across a rather extensive property, there are multiple pools to choose from of varying sizes and temperatures. Be aware that the springs are adult-only and clothing optional after dark.
Old Town Hot Springs is a family friendly facility offering all natural hot spring fed pools. This is more of a recreation center with water slides, climbing walls and fitness facility. A day-pass will provide access to the entire facility.
Haymaker Nordic Center: A seasonal golf course that turns into a groomed cross-country ski area in the winter. Haymaker also grooms 10 kilometers of single-track trails specifically for fat biking. The center provides daily equipment rentals of skis, snowshoes and fat tire bike rental.
45 moradores locais recomendam
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is a bustling mountain resort town with indie flair and Western appeal.
Located about 50 miles (about 1-hr drive) from the A-frame, Steamboat Springs is a day trip experience. Many indie shops and restaurants line the walkable historic downtown.
Skiing/Snowboarding: Spend a day skiing or snowboarding on "champagne powder" at Steamboat Ski Resort. Howelsen Hill Ski Area is a gem if you want a smaller local ski hill experience.
Hot Springs: Steamboat is famous for its various hot springs. Most notable is Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs. A natural hot springs paradise set along a mountain creek in Steamboat Springs. Built across a rather extensive property, there are multiple pools to choose from of varying sizes and temperatures. Be aware that the springs are adult-only and clothing optional after dark.
Old Town Hot Springs is a family friendly facility offering all natural hot spring fed pools. This is more of a recreation center with water slides, climbing walls and fitness facility. A day-pass will provide access to the entire facility.
Haymaker Nordic Center: A seasonal golf course that turns into a groomed cross-country ski area in the winter. Haymaker also grooms 10 kilometers of single-track trails specifically for fat biking. The center provides daily equipment rentals of skis, snowshoes and fat tire bike rental.
Visit the beautiful Lake Granby, the 3rd largest body of water in Colorado. Just 47 miles from the A-Frame (just under a 1-hr drive). Quinette Point Picnic Area is a great little alcove offering great views, picnic table, fire grills and access to the lake shore. This is a great lake for paddle boarding.
50 moradores locais recomendam
Lake Granby
Visit the beautiful Lake Granby, the 3rd largest body of water in Colorado. Just 47 miles from the A-Frame (just under a 1-hr drive). Quinette Point Picnic Area is a great little alcove offering great views, picnic table, fire grills and access to the lake shore. This is a great lake for paddle boarding.
Groceries and Staples
Forgot something? Kremmling Mercantile is the local town grocery store. This store has a little bit of everything, groceries, beer and wine, kitchen supplies, a small hot deli, and even a small selection of souvenirs.
Kremmling Mercantile
101 Martin WayForgot something? Kremmling Mercantile is the local town grocery store. This store has a little bit of everything, groceries, beer and wine, kitchen supplies, a small hot deli, and even a small selection of souvenirs.
Guided Outdoor Adventures
AVA's Kremmling Outpost provides guided unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Rafting: Experience either a half or full day rafting float trip on the Colorado River. Great for all ages and ability levels. You’ll encounter a few small rapids as the Colorado River winds through the Gore Range and Mountain Ranchland. This is a relaxing day with time to sunbathe, swim or just relax.
Fishing: This trip is perfect for a father-son bonding day or two friends who simply want to enjoy one another’s company while taking in the beauty of the Colorado River. This trip is unique in that each raft will have only one or two guests accompanied by one guide. The guide will be an experienced river and fishing guide who will handle all of the rowing of the raft and instruct guests on everything they should know to be a successful angler.
Fly Fishing: Spend your afternoon exploring the incredible waters of the Upper Colorado River with a knowledgeable fishing guide. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time fishing or you’re a seasoned angler, this trip is fit for all levels of experience.
Whether you’re looking for a unique date idea, a family outing, or you and some buddies feel like trying your hand at fly fishing for a few hours, AVA’s 2 Hour Wade Fly Fishing Trip is perfect for all of the above.
Kayaking: Want a little extra excitement or independence on the Upper Colorado trip? Try our inflatable kayaks! You can explore the beauty of the Upper Colorado while splashing through the rapids in your own stable, rubber kayak! A guide will accompany you but you’ll paddle your own boat. This trip allows you to explore the beauty of the Upper Colorado River while splashing through the riffles at your pace. A guide will accompany your group but you’ll be paddling your own inflatable kayak, or “ducky”.
Your friendly guide will entertain you with fun facts and the history of the area as you float along. This is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the sunshine while testing your skills and enjoying the beauty of the Colorado River!
AVA Rafting & Zipline
1606 Park AvenueAVA's Kremmling Outpost provides guided unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Rafting: Experience either a half or full day rafting float trip on the Colorado River. Great for all ages and ability levels. You’ll encounter a few small rapids as the Colorado River winds through the Gore Range and Mountain Ranchland. This is a relaxing day with time to sunbathe, swim or just relax.
Fishing: This trip is perfect for a father-son bonding day or two friends who simply want to enjoy one another’s company while taking in the beauty of the Colorado River. This trip is unique in that each raft will have only one or two guests accompanied by one guide. The guide will be an experienced river and fishing guide who will handle all of the rowing of the raft and instruct guests on everything they should know to be a successful angler.
Fly Fishing: Spend your afternoon exploring the incredible waters of the Upper Colorado River with a knowledgeable fishing guide. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time fishing or you’re a seasoned angler, this trip is fit for all levels of experience.
Whether you’re looking for a unique date idea, a family outing, or you and some buddies feel like trying your hand at fly fishing for a few hours, AVA’s 2 Hour Wade Fly Fishing Trip is perfect for all of the above.
Kayaking: Want a little extra excitement or independence on the Upper Colorado trip? Try our inflatable kayaks! You can explore the beauty of the Upper Colorado while splashing through the rapids in your own stable, rubber kayak! A guide will accompany you but you’ll paddle your own boat. This trip allows you to explore the beauty of the Upper Colorado River while splashing through the riffles at your pace. A guide will accompany your group but you’ll be paddling your own inflatable kayak, or “ducky”.
Your friendly guide will entertain you with fun facts and the history of the area as you float along. This is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the sunshine while testing your skills and enjoying the beauty of the Colorado River!
Adventures in Whitewater is a refreshingly unique rafting outfitter in Colorado. In their Kremmling outpost, they offer family friendly float trips through stunningly beautiful and remote canyons of the Colorado River.
Half-day and full-day Class II-III float trips available.
7 moradores locais recomendam
Adventures In Whitewater - Colorado River
200 Park AveAdventures in Whitewater is a refreshingly unique rafting outfitter in Colorado. In their Kremmling outpost, they offer family friendly float trips through stunningly beautiful and remote canyons of the Colorado River.
Half-day and full-day Class II-III float trips available.
A breathtaking guided horseback experience. Rusty Spurr Rach offers horseback trail rides and an authentic cattle drive on horseback.
Cattle Drive Experience: Get real with a cattle drive where YOU are actually doing the drive. Guests take part in and actually help move the cattle herd on horseback. Some prior riding experience is important for all participants as this is not your typical trail ride. The drive involves 3 ½ - 4 hours of riding rugged terrain without any breaks.
Trail Ride: Imagine navigating your own path through gorgeous aspen groves, up mountaintops, and across wildflower fields while soaking in the sunshine. You might see one of several historic 1800’s pioneer homesteads and hear about the local flora and fauna. Non-nose-to-tail trail rides provides you with a unique backcountry experience .
10 moradores locais recomendam
Rusty Spurr Ranch
387 County RoadA breathtaking guided horseback experience. Rusty Spurr Rach offers horseback trail rides and an authentic cattle drive on horseback.
Cattle Drive Experience: Get real with a cattle drive where YOU are actually doing the drive. Guests take part in and actually help move the cattle herd on horseback. Some prior riding experience is important for all participants as this is not your typical trail ride. The drive involves 3 ½ - 4 hours of riding rugged terrain without any breaks.
Trail Ride: Imagine navigating your own path through gorgeous aspen groves, up mountaintops, and across wildflower fields while soaking in the sunshine. You might see one of several historic 1800’s pioneer homesteads and hear about the local flora and fauna. Non-nose-to-tail trail rides provides you with a unique backcountry experience .
Local Experiences
Experience a charming small-town rodeo at the Middle Park Fair & Rodeo's week-long western celebration during the month of August.
2023 Dates: August 6th to August 13th, 2023
Wildlife fair and rodeo competitions include the 4H and livestock shows, as well as a Junior Livestock Auction. Other festivities include barrel races, horse races, CPRA rodeo, and the Middle Park Fair & Rodeo Queen crowning.
Middle Park Fair and Rodeo
203 11th StExperience a charming small-town rodeo at the Middle Park Fair & Rodeo's week-long western celebration during the month of August.
2023 Dates: August 6th to August 13th, 2023
Wildlife fair and rodeo competitions include the 4H and livestock shows, as well as a Junior Livestock Auction. Other festivities include barrel races, horse races, CPRA rodeo, and the Middle Park Fair & Rodeo Queen crowning.
Open during the summer, Memorial Day to Labor Day Friday and Saturday 10am to 4pm, Heritage Park Museum boasts six historic buildings: the MacElroy Livery barn, the Hermitage ranch house, a 1915 Forest Service Ranger Station, the Ritschard family fishing cabin, plus the original Kremmling town jail and old railroad depot. At this time, the railroad depot is under construction and will not be open to the public. This historic museum near the banks of the Colorado River provides a window into the past life of early Grand County ranchers.
Log Cabin Heritage Museum
111 4th StOpen during the summer, Memorial Day to Labor Day Friday and Saturday 10am to 4pm, Heritage Park Museum boasts six historic buildings: the MacElroy Livery barn, the Hermitage ranch house, a 1915 Forest Service Ranger Station, the Ritschard family fishing cabin, plus the original Kremmling town jail and old railroad depot. At this time, the railroad depot is under construction and will not be open to the public. This historic museum near the banks of the Colorado River provides a window into the past life of early Grand County ranchers.
This is a quaint small-town shoppe. Proprietors Rand and Jerri curate local artisan wares. More than just Christmas, you'll find local jewelry and art, western souvenirs and trinkets.
Keepsake Christmas Shoppe
411 Park AvenueThis is a quaint small-town shoppe. Proprietors Rand and Jerri curate local artisan wares. More than just Christmas, you'll find local jewelry and art, western souvenirs and trinkets.
Hikes
Gore Canyon Trail - Pumphouse Recreation Area (BLM)
At three miles round trip this trail winds along the side of the mighty Upper Colorado River. Bring your fly rob along and you might just catch a brown or rainbow trout on hike.
This moderately challenging hike takes you along the Colorado River and into Gore Canyon.
From Launch Site #1 (The Pumphouse Recreation Area is a popular river rafting put-in), follow the trail along the river bank through wetlands and onto a forested hillside. The trail is mostly flat at the beginning but once you hit a junction with an old service road, the trail gains the ridge. This next part of the hike provides wonderful views down the river. You can follow this trail for as long as you want, until you reach an endpoint 1.5 mi in. The steep canyon walls and rolling river provides a wonderfully peaceful and relaxing hike.
Gore Canyon
Gore Canyon Trail - Pumphouse Recreation Area (BLM)
At three miles round trip this trail winds along the side of the mighty Upper Colorado River. Bring your fly rob along and you might just catch a brown or rainbow trout on hike.
This moderately challenging hike takes you along the Colorado River and into Gore Canyon.
From Launch Site #1 (The Pumphouse Recreation Area is a popular river rafting put-in), follow the trail along the river bank through wetlands and onto a forested hillside. The trail is mostly flat at the beginning but once you hit a junction with an old service road, the trail gains the ridge. This next part of the hike provides wonderful views down the river. You can follow this trail for as long as you want, until you reach an endpoint 1.5 mi in. The steep canyon walls and rolling river provides a wonderfully peaceful and relaxing hike.
Routt Divide Trail #1108
Routt Divide and Buffalo Park Trail is a 5.9 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Kremmling, Colorado that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 40 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, hiking, and horseback riding, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.
Unique trail in great condition through new growth forest in area recently affected by forest fires. The fires left the charred remnants of the dense pine forest and allowed for wildflowers to thrive.
Buffalo Park Trail
Buffalo Park TrailRoutt Divide Trail #1108
Routt Divide and Buffalo Park Trail is a 5.9 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Kremmling, Colorado that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 2 h 40 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, hiking, and horseback riding, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.
Unique trail in great condition through new growth forest in area recently affected by forest fires. The fires left the charred remnants of the dense pine forest and allowed for wildflowers to thrive.