These 5 Charming Waterfront Towns Near Denver Are Perfect For A Day Trip

The poster child for the picture-perfect waterfront town is that of Grand Lake; a small mountain community of 500 that houses not only the largest and deepest natural lake in the state, but also a number of charming shops, restaurants, and even an authentic boardwalk.

Located just down the road from Grand Lake is the slightly-larger town of Granby, which boasts the apt motto of "The Heart of Something Grand." When you visit, make plans to not only fish (as the town offers BOTH gold-medal river and lake fishing), but also peruse their many boutiques and antique shops.

If you think this colorful picture is incredible, wait until you experience scenic Dillon -- which is located less than an hour and a half away from the heart of Denver -- for yourself. (Side note: Dillon may be popular for skiing and snowboarding, but wait until you get a load of the ample water sports and special summer events that the town has to offer!)

It may be a bit of a drive to get there (approximately 2 1/2 hours), but just one quick and therapeutic soak in the world's largest all-natural hot springs pool will make the long trek completely worth it.

Nestled between Denver and Colorado Springs lies the Tri Lakes community of Palmer Lake, which features not only scenic views of its namesake lake, but also a picnic-perfect landscape full of trees and wildflowers. (Need we mention that Palmer Lake also boasts a historic district, several restaurants, and cute shops?)