Top 15 Activities to Experience in Gypsum, Colorado

While the town of Gypsum may appear to be a modest mountain settlement with a population of approximately 6,000 residents, it serves as a significant hub within Eagle County. The blend of rural and urban lifestyles renders it an ideal location for establishing a base from which to explore the region.

Gypsum has cultivated a reputation for enabling residents to achieve a work-life balance, a sentiment visitors can appreciate in the relaxed demeanor of the locals.

The town maintains a deep connection to its vibrant history, emphasizing recreation and wellness. With twelve parks, a distinguished golf course, fishing spots, and a contemporary recreation center, outdoor leisure activities are readily available.

In the downtown area, guests can discover a variety of restaurants, charming cafes, and shops. Throughout the year, numerous events, including the Gypsum Daze Festival, take place, and the well-known ski areas of Vail and Beaver Creek are conveniently located just a short drive away.

Herein lies a selection of the fifteen most noteworthy activities to engage in while in and around Gypsum, Colorado.

1. Walking Mountains Science Center

The Walking Mountains Science Center in Avon offers a diverse array of activities, both independently and with guided assistance, catering to nature enthusiasts of all ages.

The center’s objective is to enhance understanding of the natural and scientific aspects of the surrounding mountainous landscape, allowing visitors to engage through various programs.

Available activities include backcountry hikes, nature walks, and interactive, engaging programs. Additionally, guests may visit the Nature Discovery Center or the on-site gift shop.

2. Embark on a Rail Adventure with Alpenglow Adventure Train Tours

There exists no superior means of enjoying the breathtaking mountainous scenery in this part of Colorado than through a scenic train journey.

Alpenglow Adventure Train Tours provides an assortment of family-friendly excursions year-round. These excursions vary in duration from four to twelve hours, and most include refreshments, lunch, and complimentary photographs and videos of your journey.

3. 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company

For an alternative to outdoor excursions, visitors can enjoy a leisurely experience at the 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company in Gypsum, tasting award-winning spirits in a comfortable tasting room.

These spirits—ranging from various vodkas to ryes—are crafted using local ingredients that reflect the mountain lifestyle. Tours are also offered.

4. Radium Hot Springs

Should you desire a day in nature without engaging in strenuous activities, consider spending an afternoon soaking in the soothing waters of Radium Hot Springs. Located alongside the Colorado River, the warmth of the springs results from a blend of cold river water and hot underground mineral water. The principal pool measures roughly 20 feet in diameter and is easily accessible via a brief 20-minute hike, with diverse wildlife frequently observed in this region.

5. Spend a Rainy Day Indoors

Difficult weather conditions do not hinder adventures; visitors can transition their escapades indoors at the Mountain Recreation Gypsum Rec Center. This community facility offers numerous activities suitable for all age groups. Amenities include a fitness center, indoor pool, sauna, gymnastics area, lockers, and showers.

6. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride with Camelot Balloons, Inc.

Commence an early-morning journey high above the Vail Valley with Camelot Balloons, Inc. These balloon excursions cater to individuals of all ages and commence at sunrise, providing exceptional views of the stunning Colorado Rocky Mountains.

The entirety of the tour lasts three hours and features a celebratory champagne lunch. The company boasts an impressive safety record, with well-trained and certified staff prioritizing safety throughout your experience.

7. Go Hiking in a Pristine Nature Area

The surrounding region of Gypsum features vast, pristine natural landscapes. A plethora of trails is accessible in the area; however, here are a few highlighted options for your visit.

The Hernage Gulch Trail offers a secluded and advanced hiking experience along Hernage Creek.

The Yeoman Discover Trail is suitable for families and serves as a more accessible choice compared to other trails in the region.

The Nolan Lake Trail presents a steep and invigorating hike leading to Nolan Lake, where visitors can relish breathtaking views.

The Mount Thomas Trail traverses the Red Table Mountain Ridgeline, providing some of the most impressive vistas in the area.

8. Ekahi Grill

Ekahi Grill invites visitors to Gypsum to savor authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Although this may seem unexpected in the heart of the Colorado mountains, this casual dining venue is beloved by both residents and tourists.

Menu items include bubble tea, volcano fries, Hawaiian Poke Bowls, and Haiku Chicken, among many other delightful offerings.

9. Sylvan Lake State Park

Families will find a treasure trove of outdoor adventures at Sylvan Lake State Park. Whether your visit is for a single day or extended stay, a multitude of activities awaits you, complemented by cabin, yurt, and campsite accommodations for overnight visits.

The park showcases picturesque views, aspen groves, and a serene lake. There are numerous activities available during both summer and winter months, including biking, hiking, birdwatching, nature observation, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing.

The lake is also a favored fishing destination, with options to rent kayaks and canoes, in addition to an on-site picnic area.

10. Go on a Dinosaur Discovery Rafting Adventure

Timberline Tours, in partnership with Fossil Posse, presents an engaging experience suitable for all age groups. The Dinosaur Discovery Raft Trip merges the excitement of a rafting expedition with the thrill of excavating dinosaur remains.

These prehistoric creatures once inhabited the region surrounding the Colorado River Valley, and participants will have the opportunity to uncover footprints and bones. This excursion includes lunch and extends for approximately six hours.

11. Relax at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bachelor Gulch

For an opulent respite from your outdoor adventures around Gypsum, consider indulging in luxurious treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bachelor Gulch in Avon. The expansive spa features nineteen treatment rooms, a nail salon, several grottos, steam rooms, saunas, and plunge pools of various temperatures.

12. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers an array of attractions, with the Glenwood Caverns and Fairy Caves being the primary draws. Two guided tours explore deep into the mountain, revealing some of the largest caves in the state.

Thrilling attractions, such as one of the longest Alpine Coasters in the area, also await visitors, alongside opportunities for laser tag in an Old-West theme, a 4D Motion Theater, and a climbing wall measuring 32 feet.

13. Bonfire Brewing

Located in one of Colorado’s trendsetting mountain regions, Bonfire Brewing in Eagle serves as an ideal venue for an evening of games, entertainment, and refreshing craft beers brewed on-site. This family-friendly brewery features games such as darts and shuffleboard, ensuring that an entertaining atmosphere abounds.

14. White River National Forest

Encircling the picturesque mountain town of Aspen lies the grandiose 2.3 million-acre expanse of White River National Forest. This area is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring breathtaking mountain views, crystalline lakes, and iconic sights like the Maroon Bells and Green Mountain Reservoir.

The ghost town of Ashcroft is also within this vicinity, offering a unique exploratory opportunity along with an array of activities such as biking, canoeing, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

15. 7 Hermits Brewing Company

The 7 Hermits Brewing Company in Eagle is a wonderful venue to spend a serene afternoon or evening indulging in fine local craft beer and cocktails. A selection of flatbreads is available to complement your preferred beverage.