WESTERN COLORADO’S GRAND VALLEY
The Little Bookcliffs cut across the skyline to the northeast. To the southeast soars the Grand Mesa—the world’s largest flat-topped mountain. The photogenic canyons and monoliths of the Colorado National Monument form a western wall. Between these three natural barriers sprawls Western Colorado’s Grand Valley. Carved out of rugged terrain by the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers, the valley was also one of the last locales in the lower 48 states to be settled by pioneer Americans.
Grand Junction is a thriving and growing area with opportunities for both business and pleasure. Travelers can enjoy a wide range of activities—from mountain biking to wine tasting, dinosaur bone hunting to incredible photography opportunities.
If you’re looking for private charter services from Denver to… anywhere, contact us to help plan your trip.
THINGS TO DO IN GRAND JUNCTION
MT. GARFIELD
Incredible views await atop Mt. Garfield. The main trail is about two miles of steep hiking, leading to the summit where you’ll find a flag and a notebook to sign your name. For a slightly easier hike, try the Lemon Squeezer—where you squeeze through a narrow crack and arrive on a flat ledge that feels like the top of the world.
TAKE A WINE TASTING TOUR
The Colorado Wine Room in Fruita is a great place to start your Colorado wine adventure. Here, you can sample a variety of wines from across the state. The Colorado Mountain Winefest is held annually each September in Palisade. It’s the state’s largest wine festival and offers a fantastic opportunity to meet winemakers and enjoy their vintages amid beautiful late-summer weather.
Nearby Palisade wineries worth visiting include Grande River Vineyards, Colterris, La Maison Belle Vie, and Carlson Vineyards. Also, consider stopping by Peach Street Distillers and Palisade Brewing Company to round out your day.
DINOSAUR BONES
Many people don’t know that Western Colorado, particularly the areas around Grand Junction and Fruita, is rich in paleontological history. Numerous prehistoric skeletons have been discovered here, including those of stegosaurus, brachiosaurus, and others. You can search for fossils yourself or visit the Dinosaur Journey Museum in Fruita, which offers a fantastic family experience.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Some of Colorado’s best mountain biking trails are in and around Grand Junction. With breathtaking views and trails for all skill levels, it’s a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
WHITEWATER RAFTING DOWN THE SHOSHONE CANYON
Enjoy thrilling whitewater rafting through the rapids of Shoshone Canyon. But don’t stop at rafting—there are excellent kayaking opportunities as well. Located less than an hour from Grand Junction, just past Glenwood Springs, even the drive is part of the adventure.