Photo: @visitgrandjunction
Located directly off Interstate 70 (I-70), Horizon Drive is not only one of the main corridors in Grand Junction, but it's also the perfect place to stay while you adventure around the city. Grand Junction Regional Airport, Colorado’s third-largest airport, is located adjacent to Horizon Drive, making it convenient to find a place to stay upon arrival in Grand Junction. With plenty of affordable hotels, places to dine, and easy access to activities, make Horizon Drive your base camp for your next Grand Junction adventure.
Photo: @liza.prado
While cruising along I-70, merge onto Exit 31 to Horizon Drive. As you near the end of the exit ramp, take notice of the beautiful larger-than-life metal horse sculptures in the roundabouts. These magnificent horses represent the wild mustangs who roam the rugged landscape behind the Book Cliffs. The Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Area is one of three remaining wild horse preserves in the country, that is designated to protect the wild horses. Guests from all over the world hike the winding trails through the canyon, as they view these majestic creatures in their natural element, wild and free.
Photo: @ourmobilejourney
Since Horizon Drive is right off I-70, it’s easy to jump on the highway for a day full of adventure. Head east for a quick 45-minute drive to the world’s largest flat-top mountain, the Grand Mesa, which is bursting with over 300 alpine lakes, perfect for any fishing fanatic. The Grand Mesa is also popular for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding during the summer months. In the winter, over 250 inches of fluffy snow transforms the Grand Mesa into a winter wonderland. Cross Country skiers and snowshoers flock to the trails which are professionally maintained by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council. Catch the lift at Powderhorn Mountain Resort, known as an affordable and approachable ski mountain. It offers 45 runs, with 20% beginner, 50% intermediate and 20% advanced, as well as some of the best tree skiing in Colorado.
Photo: @braddycakes
For a two-wheeled experience, go west on I-70 for 20 minutes and you will be at some of the nation’s most prestigious mountain bike single-track. 18 Road and Kokopelli are both iconic riding areas that are known for their grand vistas, technical climbs, and fast descents. For a roller coaster of a ride, try Joe’s Ridge at 18 Road and for rocky descents with epic views of the Colorado River, Horsethief Bench Loop at Kokopelli is a must.
Photo: @donnaellsworth
If you’re looking for a quick and convenient adventure, head south on Horizon Drive, and in less than 10 miles is the Lunch Loops trailhead, a favorite riding area for locals. With hundreds of miles of trails that spider web across the landscape, including the 142-mile Tabeguache Trail, Lunch Loops is the perfect place to test your mettle. Continue another mile up the road and you’ll find yourself in Colorado National Monument, a 20,500-acre hiking playground, often referred to as a mini Grand Canyon. Colorado National Monument will blow you away with its towering spires and massive canyons which expose millions of years of erosion through the colorful layers of rock.
Photo: @adrenaline.driven.adventures
Less than 4 miles north of Horizon Drive, sits the Grand Junction OHV area. This open-use BLM area is perfect if you are looking for your gas-powered adrenaline fix. Out here you are free to explore the vast, dune-covered desertscape at the foot of the Book Cliffs. Both dirt bikes and side-by-sides whip through this wide-open terrain, including during sunset where orange skies light up the horizon. You can rent RZRs from Adrenaline Driven Adventure Rentals & Tours, located right on Horizon Drive, and drive right out to the OHV area. Or take a guided tour and let the experts show you what these powerful machines can do.
Photo: @visitgrandjunction
If all this adventure is making you hungry, don’t worry. There are dozens of restaurants along Horizon Drive for you to choose from. Fuel up with a delicious breakfast and a fresh cup of jo from Octopus Coffee or if you are looking for authentic Italian food and artisan pizzas, check out Enzo’s Ristorante Italiano. Be sure to also swing by Aztecas Family Mexican Restaurant which serves up sizzling fajitas and hearty burritos, while Tepanyaki Japanese Steakhouse prepares fresh entrees before your eyes, complete with all the chef theatrics you expect including knife juggling and flipping shrimp onto your plate from the grill.
Photo: @quenchyouradventure
When it comes to finding a place to stay, you won’t have a problem finding an affordable room along Horizon Drive. There are 18 hotels and motels and a bed and breakfast along Horizon Dr., making it easy to find what you are looking for. The Grand Junction Visitor Center is at 740 Horizon Drive and is packed with brochures, maps, and Colorado visitor guides. Friendly Ambassadors are happy to assist you with travel arrangements or suggestions on things to do and where to dine. They also will gift you a free stamped postcard to mail, so be sure to stop by.
Learn more about Grand Junction and all the area has to offer, from affordable lodging and trendy restaurants to an abundance of outdoor activities - Grand Junction is the Colorado you expect. We’ll see you soon!
Are you looking for more ideas to fill your day? Check out itineraries starting on page 16 and lodging starting on page 40 of the Grand Junction Visitor Guide!
