Grand Junction, Colorado, a community that is sandwiched between California Plateau and the Rocky Mountains, is an outdoor playground. With sunshine more than 300 days a year, enjoy world-class mountain biking, scenic river rafting and relaxing holidays. Whether you have been thinking about studying the magnificent Colorado National Monument or sipping wine in the vineyards of the Grand Valley, this three-day plan can help you get the most out of your trip to this western treasure.
Day 1: Colorado National Monument and Rim Rock Drive
Begin your Grand Junction experience at Colorado National Monument and in a few minutes you can be in downtown. This 20,500 acre preserve features some of the very finest red rock formations the American West has to offer.
Morning: Rim Rock Drive
Begin early with the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive, which is among the most scenic routes in America. This serpentine pathway itself provides perfect views of the Grand Valley below and the large monoliths that feature the monument. See panoramic views at Cold Shivers Point, and photos of the most recognized rock formation in the park at Independence Monument View.
The backroads are roughly two hours in length with stops, though allow more time to traverse the many turnoffs as well as sightseeing. They all have a different view of the sandstone canyons, balanced rocks, and natural arches which are what make this area such a marvel.
Afternoon: Hiking the Monument
Select one of a variety of hiking paths depending on your fitness and time. Devils Kitchen Trail (1.5 miles round trip) is a simple introductory path to the geology of the monument, which brings to a dramatic red rock alcove.
In a salvo Rockefeller, cover the Window rock Trail (1 round trip mile). The trail offers stunning valley views and close-ups of a natural arch to the hiker. It is the most ideal place to explore during the afternoon because the distance is relatively short. More advanced hikers may choose Independence Monument Trail (5.5 roundtrip), as it includes the unbelievable views at the cost of additional time and preparation.
Evening: Sunset at Artists Point
Use your first day to explore Artists Point, which has been referred to as the best place to see a sunset in the monument. The western front overlook offers unhindered Grand Valley views as the setting sun casts its bright light over the red rocks in superb orange and gold hues.
Day 2: Mountain Biking and River Adventures
Grand Junction has also gained popularity as one of the best mountain biking destinations in America with mountain biking trails that accommodate all fitness levels. The terrain and superb weather conditions within the area make it ideal to have a cycling adventure.
Morning: Kokopelli's Trail System
Start your second day on the famous Kokopelli's Trail system. The Horsethief Bench trail can provide great beginner to intermediate trails with great views on the Colorado River. The single track roads are in very good condition and run through the high desert terrain offering glimpses into wildlife and native vegetation.
Riders with more experience must go to the area of 18 Road, which hosts the technical trails such as Zippity Do Da and Oh My Gawd Road. These paths have heart-throbbing drops, and technical attributes that challenge your capabilities.
Afternoon: Colorado River Rafting
Cool off from your morning ride with an afternoon on the Colorado River. There are a few local outfitters that provide a day rafting adventure into scenic Ruby and Horsethief Canyon. These mild Class I-II rapids make the river ideal to families and first time rafters.
Another view of the geology of the area presented in the river journey is watching the giant canyon walls emerging out of the water. Watch for animals such as great blue herons, bald eagles and river otters that have their homes in these waters.
Evening: Downtown Grand Junction
Complete your active day with dinner in the downtown of Grand Junction. There are shops, many breweries, and restaurants in the historic downtown. Various restaurants have expendable activities in which you can sit out and reminiscence on what you have experienced.
Day 3: Outdoor Exploration and Scenic Drives
On your last day, you will do a tour that integrates nature with the emerging industry of the region; this will be in the Grand Valley American Viticultural Area.
Morning: Grand Mesa Scenic Byway
Explore the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway that ascends the desert floor to an altitude of more than 10,000 feet. This scenic path expresses the wide array of environments Colorado has to offer, including high desert shrubs and alpine forests interspersed with crystal-clear lakes.
There are many hiking possibilities in the byway. Land O Lakes Trail gives access to some mountain lakes gladly, and Crag Crest Trail is harder with hiking impressing with magnificent 360-degree views of the mesa rim.
Afternoon: Mountain Biking and Zip Lining
Once you are done with a scenic drive and hiking in the morning, you are ready to get things started with some adrenaline fueled activities. The Grand Mesa has some of the finest mountain biking trails in the world, and riders of all skill levels will enjoy these trails.
A family-friendly choice is visiting Powderhorn mountain resort so that they can go mountain biking on the mountain served by a lift. It also has a variety of beginner-level flow trails and downhill trails all over 20 miles that anyone can enjoy.
Evening: Sunset at Mount Garfield
Finally, end your 3 day adventure with a back-country hike up Mount Garfield to see the sunset. The moderate (3 mile round trip) elevation gain is approximately 1,000 feet making this hiking path open to a panoramic view of the entire Grand Valley.
From the summit, you can see the path of your weekend adventures: the red rocks of Colorado National Monument to the west, the Colorado River winding through the valley below, and the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains rising to the east.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) provide the best weather conditions when it is not very hot and crowds are less. Summer is hot, particularly in mid-day activities, whereas winter restricts a number of outside activities and offers snow sport opportunities in the Grand Mesa.
What to Bring
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly with elevation changes. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Mountain bikers should carry repair tools and extra tubes.
Accommodations
There are many hotels and camping facilities in Grand Junction. Colorado National Monument or Highline Lake State Parks are other popular State Parks to camp for a more engaging outdoor experience.
Final Thoughts
Grand Junction is the keys to all the beautiful outdoor experiences Colorado has to offer. There are dramatic red rock landscapes, exciting activities, and friendly community to explore within a period of three days that make this destination unforgettable. It can be visited throughout the year; it offers lots of sunshine and different heights to satisfy all tourists. Grand Junction will inspire your next outing, whether it is a short adventure or extended backcountry.
