Beginning in 1902 by entrepreneurs from Denver, it soon grew to its current location on Grand Lake's northern shore.

GLYC hosts an annual Regatta Week where E Scows, M-20, M-16, M-17 and Laser sailboats race for a plethora of cups.

In Regatta Week, the members also compete in several other competitions including wakeboarding, water skiing, and swimming races.

On the last day of Regatta Week, the members go to the Commodore's Ball where they celebrate the good year at Grand Lake.

Because of the Lodgepole Pine epidemic, Grand Lake's shores have become more and more barren due to the removal of the dead trees.