Rapids Lodge & Restaurant

Mountain Adventures in Grand Lake, CO

The history of the Rapids Lodge & Restaurant dates back to 1915, and one family that survived as pioneers in the region. Jon Lapsley Ish created one of the most beloved tourist destinations today, the Historic Rapids Lodge & Restaurant. We’re proud to carry on the Ish family’s legacy by providing the finest accommodations at the West Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, and an unparalleled dining experience.  Schedule your stay with us today. 
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Our history

June 12, 1915, marks the opening day of the Rapids Lodge & Restaurant. This signature destination was built by John Lapsley (J.L.) Ish and his family and have served guests for over 105 years. J.L. made the trip west as a child in a covered wagon and lived outside Denver for many years. By 18, J.L. moved to Grand County, staking claims outside the mining town of Teller. During this time, he also served as a mail carrier providing essential food and goods to remote miners while braving wild terrain, towering snowdrifts, and unyielding weather conditions. Once, he even carried two kegs of pickles into Teller, thrilled to deliver them to the miners who relished the pickles with their wild meat. After several years J.L. married and homesteaded with his family near Rand. There he built and operated the Rand Hotel until 1910. By 1912, after a brief stint in California, J.L. returned to the area to open the Rapids Lodge & Restaurant. The lodge had running water and baths, with electricity provided by an "overshot" water wheel in the nearby Tonahutu River.

J.L. and his family embody the pioneer spirit of adventure, hard work, and enthusiasm that our staff carries to this day. We're happy to welcome you and your family to our mountain destination and ensure you enjoy every minute of your stay. Contact us today. 

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Make the most of your family vacation. Call us today. (970) 627-3707
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