Local Area Guide (Bailey)

Things to Do — Hiking, Biking & More

One of Colorado's most underrated wilderness areas, right on Bailey's doorstep. Nearly 120,000 acres of granite spires, domes, balanced rocks, wildflower meadows, and winding creeks — all within an hour of Denver, yet feeling genuinely remote. The Goose Creek Trail is a classic; the Brookside-McCurdy Trail is one of the best backpacking loops in the state. Self-issued wilderness permits are required and free at the trailhead.

A gorgeous 3,800-acre state park just 15 minutes from Bailey. Trails range from easy family walks to a 12-mile round-trip to Elk Falls Waterfall. Great wildlife viewing, rock climbing, and some trails lead to secluded fishing spots. Day use fee ~$10/vehicle. Dogs welcome on leash.

About 20 minutes west of Bailey, Kenosha Pass is one of the most popular Colorado Trail access points in the state. The aspen groves here turn an extraordinary gold in late September and early October, making it one of the best fall foliage spots in Colorado. The trail out from the pass is relatively gentle and suitable for all fitness levels.

A beautiful Jefferson County Open Space park about 20 minutes from Bailey along the North Fork of the South Platte. Easy riverside loops make it perfect for families and beginners, while longer trails like the Buffalo Creek Loop offer a full-day challenge. Free parking, no day-use fee.

A quick escape just minutes from downtown Bailey. This trail climbs steadily through pine and aspen forest before opening to sweeping panoramic views of the Platte River Valley and surrounding peaks. A great option when you want a rewarding hike without driving far.

About 25 minutes from Bailey, Buffalo Creek has over 40 miles of non-motorized singletrack ranging from beginner-friendly to technical expert terrain. One of the best mountain bike destinations on Colorado's Front Range, and far less crowded than the trails closer to Denver.

Bailey's most unique attraction — a museum and gift shop dedicated entirely to Bigfoot lore. Surprisingly entertaining for all ages, and the gift shop has genuinely fun Colorado-made goods. Worth a stop just for the novelty.

Scenic Drives

One of the most spectacular drives in Colorado — a 22-mile paved road connecting the historic silver-mining town of Georgetown to Grant, just east of Bailey on Hwy 285. The road climbs to 11,669 feet with stunning views of Mount Bierstadt, alpine tundra, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Multiple hiking trailheads along the way, including access to Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado's most accessible fourteeners. Open Memorial Day weekend through late November. Free to drive.

Head west on Hwy 285 from Bailey and enjoy one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the state as it climbs over Kenosha Pass (10,001 ft) and drops into the wide-open South Park valley. Spectacular in fall when the aspens are turning. Continue to Fairplay for a historic South Park mining town experience, or loop back via Hwy 9 through Breckenridge.

The highest paved road in North America, climbing to 14,130 feet near the summit of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans). Staggering views of the Continental Divide, mountain goats and bighorn sheep along the roadside, and a genuine above-timberline experience without any hiking required. Open Memorial Day weekend through early November; entrance fee applies.

Local Events, Markets & Festivals

Bailey's signature community festival held each June in downtown Bailey. Live music on two stages, local vendors, arts and crafts, food booths, and a genuine small-town mountain fair atmosphere. Organized by the Platte Canyon Chamber of Commerce.

Held over the 4th of July weekend in Alma, Colorado (about 45 minutes from Bailey), this festival claims the title of the highest-elevation bluegrass festival in the United States. Two days of live music, local food vendors, free camping, and big mountain views. Family and dog-friendly.

An authentic Colorado county fair held each July in Fairplay (about 50 minutes from Bailey). Rodeo events, livestock shows, carnival rides, and all the classic fair food you'd hope for. A great slice of real Colorado mountain-town culture.

A beloved local holiday tradition held in early December in downtown Bailey. Local vendors, holiday gifts, food, and festive small-town cheer. A great reason to visit in the winter months.

The world's most famous outdoor amphitheatre is just 30 minutes from the cabin. The concert season runs April through October with an extraordinary lineup of artists across every genre. Even without a concert ticket, the park is free to visit during the day — the hiking trail through the formations is worth the trip on its own.

Snowpack Taproom hosts regular live music events, bluegrass jams, and tap takeovers throughout the year. Check their website or social media for the current schedule — one of the best local live music venues in the foothills.

Day Trips

Even without a concert, Red Rocks is worth a visit. The 300-foot sandstone formations are breathtaking, the Trading Post Loop hiking trail winds through dramatic red rock scenery, and the Performers Hall of Fame is surprisingly entertaining. Free during the day when no events are scheduled.

Colorado's most charming ski town is an easy drive west over Kenosha Pass. In winter, Breckenridge Ski Resort is world-class. In summer, the historic Main Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, and the surrounding trails offer exceptional hiking and mountain biking at altitude. The gondola runs year-round for non-skiers.

A beautiful mountain town with a charming lakeside downtown. In summer, rent a paddleboat or kayak on Evergreen Lake; in winter, it becomes one of Colorado's most scenic outdoor ice skating rinks. Good restaurants, galleries, and a relaxed pace that makes it a great afternoon escape.

A beautifully preserved Victorian silver-mining town along I-70 with 200+ restored 1870s buildings. The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a narrow-gauge steam locomotive that runs through the mountains on a historic trestle in summer — a fantastic family activity. Great dining and shopping on the historic main street.

The heart of Colorado's historic South Park region. The open-air South Park City Museum re-creates an 1800s mining town with 40+ original buildings — genuinely fascinating Colorado history. The town of Fairplay has good restaurants, a lively main street, and the charm of a real mountain community.

Colorado's capital and one of America's great outdoor cities. World-class museums, a thriving restaurant and craft brewery scene, professional sports, and easy access to some of the best urban hiking at places like Wash Park. The drive in on Hwy 285 through the canyon is scenic right up to the city limits.

A fun mountain town along I-70 with natural hot springs, whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, zip lines, and the launch point for the Mount Blue Sky scenic byway. The historic downtown has good pizza, ice cream, and souvenir shops. Easy to pair with a Guanella Pass drive by coming back via Georgetown.

Fishing Spots

A 20-acre historic park right in Bailey with public river access on both banks. Good fishing for wild brown and rainbow trout up to 18 inches, plus a whitewater kayak launch and riverside picnic area. Colorado fishing license required.

A privately owned 167-acre trophy fishery stocked with Rainbow, Cutbow, Brown, Brook, Tiger, and Palomino Trout. Catch-and-release only. Entrance fee required. Also great for swimming, non-motorized boating, and picnicking. About 40 minutes southeast of Bailey.

A small pond on the west end of Bailey stocked with abundant trout — no license required, making it perfect for kids or beginners. The adjacent North Fork of the South Platte also offers rainbow, brook, and brown trout (license required).

Located in Pike National Forest northwest of Bailey, past Deer Creek Campground. Known for sizable Brook and Brown Trout in a remote, forested setting. Take County Road 43 northwest from Bailey.

About 90 minutes away but worth every mile. This area carries Colorado's coveted Gold Medal fishing designation — the stretch of South Platte River between Spinney and Eleven Mile Reservoir is internationally famous for the size and density of its trout population.

Picnic Spots Along the River

Right in downtown Bailey, this historic 20-acre park sits along the North Fork of the South Platte and includes a dedicated riverside picnic area, public restrooms, a hiking trail, and a historic iron railroad bridge to explore.

A beautiful lakeside setting surrounded by pine and aspen forest. Picnic tables, swimming, non-motorized boating, and catch-and-release fishing all in one spot. Entrance fee applies.

A quiet U.S. Forest Service picnic area along the South Platte River, accessed via Jefferson County Road 67. Elevation 6,220 feet, with peaceful river views. Day use only.

Restaurants & Bars

Bailey's go-to for a proper sit-down meal. Situated right on the river with a pet-friendly outdoor patio, 10 Colorado beers on tap, handcrafted burgers, artisan pizza, and weekend brunch. Live music events too. Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

A Bailey landmark, open from 5am — perfect before a day on the water. Homestyle cooking: chicken fried steak, green chili, hearty breakfast burritos. Friendly locals-only atmosphere. Closed Wednesdays.

Authentic Mexican with big portions and strong margaritas. Fan favorites include the fish tacos, white queso enchiladas, and the massive burritos. Every table gets a complimentary tequila dessert shot.

A family-run winery and bistro nestled beside the North Fork of the South Platte. Handcrafted wines, live music, and a refined mountain dining experience. Reserve a table early for a riverside seat.

The community hub of Conifer. Thirty-two craft beers on tap, artisan brick-oven pizza, sandwiches, and live music on a two-floor venue with a full stage and outdoor patio. Dog-friendly downstairs. Open daily from 11am.

A relaxed local pub known for hearty American fare, great salads, cold beer, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. A solid option for a casual evening out.

Don't let the modest exterior fool you — this is a genuine local gem. Cantonese, Mandarin, Szechuan, and Hunan dishes made fresh, with generous portions and unbeatable prices. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but the food is great — especially for takeout back to the cabin. Closed Tuesdays.

Classic soda-fountain ice cream in a charming log cabin setting. The perfect stop after a hike or a day on the water. Simple, nostalgic, and delicious.

A genuine Colorado roadside oddity — a restaurant built inside a giant hot dog. Quirky, fun, and a great stop with kids. Hot dogs with every imaginable topping.

Coffee

A total hidden gem tucked just off Highway 285 at Pine Junction. Everything is homemade — flaky croissants, cinnamon rolls, turnovers, scones, and breakfast burritos packed with fresh ingredients. The kind of friendly, cozy local place you'll want to stop at every morning. Open 5am–3pm weekdays, 7am–3pm weekends.

Grocery & Essentials

The most convenient option right in Bailey. Gas station and convenience store with a solid selection of snacks, drinks, household essentials, coffee, and a Subway inside. Open around the clock.

Basic household supplies, pantry staples, snacks, and paper goods. A handy backup for quick trips.

Full-service grocery store in Conifer with a complete selection of fresh produce, meat, deli, bakery, and pharmacy. The closest full supermarket to the cabin.

Large full-service supermarket in Conifer, open 6am–11pm daily. Great selection and usually a bit less busy than the Safeway. Fuel station on site.

Outdoor Gear & Rentals

Your one-stop shop for outdoor adventures right in Bailey. Camping supplies, fishing gear (rods, reels, waders, flies), hiking equipment, snowshoe rentals, Carhartt clothing, and Colorado Parks & Wildlife fishing licenses. Closed Tuesdays.

Based in Bailey, this local rental outfit lets you hit the trails, water, or slopes without hauling your own gear. ATVs, kayaks, fishing equipment, ski gear, and more — with delivery options available. Give them a call for availability and recommendations on the best spots in the area.

Laundromat

Self-serve coin laundry, drop-off laundry service, and a dog wash station — all in downtown Bailey. Clean, well-maintained machines. Open daily 6am–9pm.

Liquor Store

A well-stocked independent liquor store at Pine Junction, right on Highway 285. Great selection of wines and spirits packed into a charming small-town shop. Open Mon–Sat 9:30am–10pm, Sun 10am–9pm.