Grand County is a gateway to some of the state’s most visited outdoor recreation destinations, including Winter Park Resort, Rocky Mountain National Park’s west entrance, Grand Lake and the Fraser Valley. As Colorado experiences growth in electric vehicle EV adoption, rural tourism destinations like Grand County are increasingly important nodes in the statewide charging network.
Expanding EV charging infrastructure supports sustainable tourism, improves traveler confidence, and aligns with Colorado’s broader climate goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation —the state’s largest emissions source.
EV adoption and statewide trends
Colorado is one of the leading states for electric vehicle adoption in the United States.
These trends indicate that EV drivers are increasingly traveling across the state, including to rural recreation destinations such as Grand County.
Importance of charging infrastructure in rural tourism communities
For rural communities, charging infrastructure plays a critical role in enabling EV travel. Limited charger availability is frequently cited as one of the largest barriers to EV adoption, particularly in rural regions where drivers may not have reliable charging access between towns.
Strategically located chargers near downtown areas, recreation hubs and lodging create both economic and environmental benefits. Tourism destinations benefit significantly from EV charging infrastructure because:
EV drivers often plan travel routes around charging availability.
Charging stations encourage visitors to spend time in nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions while charging.
Visible charging infrastructure signals a community’s commitment to sustainability and climate resilience.
A map of EV chargers in Grand County. Sustainable Grand/Courtesy photo
Current EV charging infrastructure in Grand County
Grand County currently has a growing but still limited network of public charging stations distributed across several communities. These stations include a mix of Level 2 chargers and DC fast chargers, providing both overnight and rapid charging options for travelers.
Winter Park
Winter Park Resort B Lot
Winter Park parking garage
Cooper Creek Square parking garage
Fireside Market & Eatery
Gravity Haus
Middle Park Health
Fraser
The Foundry
Lions Ponds Park
Granby
Maverik Adventure’s First Stop
YMCA of the Rockies – Snow Mountain Ranch
Grand Lake
Grand Lake DC fast charger
Grand Lake Yacht Club
Downtown Grand Lake charging stations
Tabernash
Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa
Kremmling
Kremmling Town Park charging station
Tesla Supercharger
An EV charges at YMCA of the Rockies. YMCA of the Rockies/Courtesy photo
Infrastructure gaps and opportunities
While Grand County has made progress expanding EV charging access, several gaps remain:
First of all, there is limited fast-charging coverage. Most stations are Level 2 chargers, which typically require several hours to fully charge a vehicle.
Two, rural distance between communities presents challenges. Long stretches of highway between towns increase the importance of reliable fast chargers. Some towns, including Hot Sulphur Springs and smaller rural areas, currently have little or no public charging infrastructure.
In addition, visitor traffic during ski season and summer recreation periods increases charging demand for certain periods of the year.
Strategic EV infrastructure expansion could significantly improve travel accessibility and sustainability in Grand County. Priority opportunities include Downtown charging hubs in Granby, Fraser, and Winter Park; Highway corridor chargers along U.S. Highway 40; Recreation-based charging locations near trailheads, lakes, and ski areas; Lodging and resort charging for overnight visitors; and Municipal fleet electrification charging
Research from rural Colorado communities shows that placing chargers near destinations people already visit — such as downtown areas, parks, and grocery stores — helps integrate charging into daily activity rather than requiring a separate trip.
An EV charges at YMCA of the Rockies. YMCA of the Rockies/Courtesy photo
Benefits for tourism and local businesses
Investing in EV charging infrastructure can provide measurable benefits for Grand County’s tourism economy.
With increased visitor accessibility, EV drivers are more likely to visit destinations where charging is available. Charging times encourage travelers to spend time at local businesses and book longer stays in the county.
Clean transportation infrastructure reinforces Grand County’s reputation as an environmentally conscious mountain destination. As EV adoption accelerates, charging infrastructure ensures Grand County remains accessible to future visitors.
Electric vehicle adoption is accelerating rapidly across Colorado, and tourism destinations must adapt to meet the needs of EV travelers. Expanding charging infrastructure across Grand County will strengthen the region’s position as a sustainable mountain destination while supporting local businesses and reducing transportation emissions.
By investing in strategic charging locations and partnerships, Grand County can ensure that residents and visitors alike benefit from cleaner, more reliable transportation infrastructure.