Objective:

Create a successful destination resort nestled in a mountain community that serves as a gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Project Goals:

Sun Outdoors, a part of the Sun Communities portfolio, wanted to curate a unique experience within the mountain community of Granby, Colorado. They aspired to provide users with family water activities, stargazing, scenic hiking trails and outlooks, and spaces for families to connect as their pets roamed nearby.

Challenges We Overcame:

The site’s location and topography created a few challenges in the water strategy, the high-elevation landscape design, wildfire mitigation, creating unique experiences, and safety—particularly for children.

RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture teamed with Atwell to develop a comprehensive water strategy to utilize holding pods for supplemental irrigation, including a pumping and distribution system. To mitigate wildfire concerns and maintain the integrity of the unique habitat present at a high elevation, the team selected specific landscape flora to mimic native plant communities and distributed them to promote fire-wise principles. As for the unique experiences, the team focused on elevated amenities that integrated the distinctive natural landscape into safe, entertaining, one-of-a-kind activities for the residents and their pets to enjoy.

Outcome:

Through the selection of landscape elements and amenity options, RVi transformed the 326-acre site into a scenic escape. The resort has 440 campsites, glamping and villa homes, and an assortment of amenities. Guests can enjoy fun in the pool, relax in the hot tub spa, and stargaze around fire pits and campfires. There is a community center, dog park, gift shop, and general store. More active options include golf cart rentals, hiking trails with scenic overlooks, and an event lawn for seasonal live music performances. Safe areas for kids to run and play are a testament to the design of park amenities.

This resort provides visitors with a unique, front-row seat to the breathtaking views of Rocky Mountain National Park, while being able to choose the experience they want. There’s a continued flow of high demand with repeat customers and positive visitor reviews and referrals.