The 5 Best Outdoor Adventure Companies Around Grand County

In a region framed by alpine ridgelines, blue-ribbon rivers, and lodgepole pine forests, adventure isn’t a luxury—it’s a local expectation. Grand County lives up to its name, offering a broad spectrum of high-altitude experiences year-round. From whitewater and wildflowers to snowmobiles and sunrise balloon rides, outdoor outfitters help make those moments possible. The Best of Grand contest offers a nod to several standout companies helping folks get off the beaten path—and back safely.

Colorado Mountain Expeditions

This is not your average walk in the woods. Colorado Mountain Expeditions specializes in guided hiking and backpacking trips, offering curated routes across Rocky Mountain National Park and the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Their backcountry expertise, paired with Leave No Trace principles, makes for a deep and responsible immersion into Colorado’s wild spaces. For many adventurers, these treks are about more than cardio—they’re an invitation to recalibrate.

Grand Adventures

Known as one of Colorado’s premier snowmobile tour operators, Grand Adventures lets you throttle into winter with a view. Their guided tours showcase panoramic vistas from the Continental Divide, and their rental options allow experienced riders to explore solo. In the warmer months, they pivot to Polaris side-by-side rentals—so there’s never a wrong season to kick up some trail dust. The crew prides itself on accessibility, offering trips suited for total rookies and trail-seasoned veterans alike.

Winding River Resort

Beyond offering one of the region’s most scenic campgrounds, Winding River Resort also delivers hands-on outdoor adventure. Located near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, this family-friendly hub provides horseback trail rides, hayrides, and seasonal events that celebrate mountain life. The outfitter services are woven into a larger experience that blends rustic lodging, wildlife watching, and good old-fashioned downtime.

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours

If terra firma feels too predictable, Grand Adventure Balloon Tours takes you higher. Literally. Their hot air balloon rides offer a bird’s-eye view of the Fraser Valley at sunrise, creating surreal photo ops and unforgettable mornings. Flights end with a champagne toast and a commemorative certificate, keeping things both elegant and celebratory. It’s a peaceful, poetic way to appreciate the contours of Grand County’s rugged beauty.

MAD Adventures

Adrenaline? Check. River rapids? Check. A wet and wild day you won’t forget? Double check. MAD Adventures leads whitewater rafting trips on the Upper Colorado and Clear Creek, with half-day and full-day options depending on your sense of thrill. Their guides blend safety with stoke, creating an experience that feels both secure and spontaneous. When the rivers calm down, they also offer ATV tours through Grand County’s forested back roads.

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