Photo: @visitgrandjunction
Located directly off Interstate 70 (I-70), the Horizon Drive District is not only one of the main corridors in Grand Junction, but it's also the perfect place to stay while you play. Grand Junction Regional Airport, Colorado’s third-largest airport, is located at the end of Horizon Drive making it convenient to find a place to stay when flying into Grand Junction. With plenty of affordable hotels, places to dine, and easy access to activities, Horizon Drive is 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. Guests from all over the world hike the winding trails through the canyon, as they view these majestic creatures up close.
Photo: @peakresults
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. In the summer, the Grand Mesa 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. Powderhorn Mountain Resort is known as an affordable and approachable ski mountain. It offers 45 runs, with a good balance of green, blue and black, 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 state’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 playground, often referred to as a mini Grand Canyon. Colorado National Monument will blow your mind with towering spires and massive canyons that show 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 adrenaline fix. Out here you are free to explore the vast and dune-covered desertscape at the foot of the Book Cliffs. The trails are enjoyed by both dirt bikes and side-by-sides. You can rent RZRs from Adrenaline Driven Adventure Company, located right on Horizon Drive, and drive 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. Aztecas Family Mexican Restaurant serves up sizzling fajitas and hearty burritos, while Tepanyaki Japanese Steakhouse prepares fresh entrees before your eyes.
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 a bed and breakfast along Horizon Dr., making it easy to find what you are looking for. 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!
