Ward ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ward, Colorado.
1. Brainard Lake Recreation Area
SCENIC OUTDOOR PARADISE
Brainard Lake Recreation Area is a popular outdoor destination located just 5 miles west of Ward. Visitors can enjoy boating, camping, and a variety of trails open to hikers and horseback riders during summer months, while winter offers excellent snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities. The recreation area also provides access to trails in the Indian Peaks Wilderness through its trail system.
2. Lake Isabelle
PRISTINE MOUNTAIN LAKE
Lake Isabelle ranks as one of the top attractions in Ward, offering breathtaking alpine scenery. The lake is accessible via trails from the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, making it a perfect hiking destination. Visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and pristine mountain waters.
3. The Glass Tipi Gallery
UNIQUE ART EXPERIENCE
The Glass Tipi Gallery stands as one of Ward's most distinctive cultural attractions. This gallery showcases local artistry and craftsmanship in a unique setting. Visitors can explore and purchase handcrafted items while experiencing a piece of local culture.
4. Historic Ward Community Church
PRESERVED RELIGIOUS HERITAGE
The Historic Ward Community Church represents an important piece of Ward's cultural heritage. This well-preserved structure offers visitors a glimpse into the town's past and religious foundations. The church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of this former mining community.
5. Ward Schoolhouse
HISTORIC MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING
The old Ward Schoolhouse now serves as the town's Post Office, Town Hall, and library. This historic building represents the adaptive reuse of important community structures from Ward's past. Visitors can appreciate both the historical architecture and its continued importance to town functions.
6. Switzerland Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
The Switzerland Trail offers visitors a popular biking and hiking route with significant historical importance. Originally built as a narrow-gauge railroad connecting mining communities, the trail now provides recreational opportunities with scenic mountain views. Outdoor enthusiasts particularly enjoy its accessibility and natural beauty.
7. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
COLORADO'S OLDEST BYWAY
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway runs directly through Ward as part of its 55-mile route. As Colorado's oldest and one of its most scenic byways, it offers spectacular views of the Continental Divide and connects multiple mountain attractions. Travelers can enjoy this historic route that once helped establish Ward as a center of commerce when the railroad reached town.
8. Gold Lake Area
HISTORIC MINING DISTRICT
The Gold Lake area lies just east of Ward and features panoramic views of both the Continental Divide and eastern Colorado's flatlands. This historic region first attracted Native American tribes and later became the site of a gold rush district in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can explore the natural beauty that has attracted people to this area for centuries.
9. Eldora Mountain Resort
YEAR-ROUND MOUNTAIN RECREATION
Eldora Mountain Resort provides outdoor recreation opportunities near Ward along the Peak to Peak scenic byway. During winter, visitors enjoy skiing and snowboarding on varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. In warmer months, the resort offers hiking trails and mountain activities with spectacular alpine views.
10. Rocky Mountain National Park
ICONIC NATURE PRESERVE
Rocky Mountain National Park is accessible from Ward via the Peak to Peak scenic byway. The park encompasses 415 square miles of spectacular mountain environments, alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy activities ranging from scenic drives and wildlife viewing to challenging hikes and camping experiences.
11. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
ACCESSIBLE MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS
Golden Gate Canyon State Park is located along the Peak to Peak byway near Ward. The park features over 12,000 acres of forest, rocky peaks, and mountain meadows with over 35 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this accessible mountain wilderness.
12. Indian Peaks Wilderness Area
PRISTINE BACKCOUNTRY EXPERIENCE
The Indian Peaks Wilderness Area offers backcountry adventures accessible via trails near Ward. This protected wilderness spans over 76,000 acres and features stunning alpine scenery, including several peaks over 13,000 feet. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, backpacking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this pristine natural setting.
13. Frozen Waterfall Snowshoe Tour
GUIDED WINTER ADVENTURE
The Frozen Waterfall Snowshoe Tour offers winter visitors a unique guided experience near Ward. Participants can explore magnificent ice formations and frozen waterfalls in the Rocky Mountain landscape. This guided tour provides equipment and expert knowledge for both beginners and experienced snowshoers.
14. Astronomy Tour
STARGAZING MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE
The Astronomy Tour provides visitors with guided stargazing experiences in the clear mountain air around Ward. Participants can observe celestial objects through telescopes while learning about astronomy from knowledgeable guides. The high elevation and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for viewing stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena.
15. Electric Cruiser Fat Tire Bike Tour
MODERN BOULDER EXPLORATION
The Original Electric Cruiser Fat Tire Bike Tour offers an exciting way to explore the Boulder area near Ward. Participants ride electric-assisted fat tire bikes that make navigating varied terrain accessible to riders of different fitness levels. The tour showcases Boulder's best attractions while providing a fun, eco-friendly transportation experience.