Winter in Grand Junction looks different than the rest of Colorado. Thanks to Grand Junction’s temperate climate, 300+ days of sunshine and easy accessibility, you can enjoy your favorite summer activities while still having access to the world-renowned snow sports that Colorado is known for. When most people think of a Colorado winter, they conjure up images of busy ski towns and high-end resorts. While Grand Junction does get snow like the rest of the state, providing for a quintessential ski vacation at Powderhorn Mountain Resort, it’s much more affordable in Grand Junction so you can justify staying another night or two!
Hiking & Biking
While Grand Junction is known for its excellent hiking and biking opportunities during the summer months, winter is one of the best times of the year to get out and explore the area because of the cool and comfortable weather. Hike in sneakers while exploring the Colorado National Monument’s 43 miles of trails framed by steep canyon walls and spires jutting up to the sky. For an easy and rewarding hike, check out Canyon Rim Trail. This beginner-level trail offers scenic vistas of the canyon and is perfect for the kiddos. For your two-wheeled winter adventure, the Lunch Loops mountain biking area is a local favorite as residents leave downtown on their lunch break for a quick spin. The Big Sister Loop is an excellent trail for intermediate mountain bike riders who are looking for some technical sections to add variety to their ride.
Winter Wonderland
The best part about a Grand Junction winter is that you can go from hiking and biking to enjoying all the Colorado snow sports you expect with just a short 45-minute drive from Grand Junction to the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world. After taking exit 49 to Highway 65 from Interstate 70 east, the road is an easy drive and is well-maintained during the winter months. With an average of 250 inches of snow per year, the Grand Mesa is bursting with winter sport opportunities. As you ascend to the top of the Grand Mesa, you will pass by Powderhorn Mountain Resort, which offers affordable pristine skiing and snowboarding - all without the crowds. Combine that with three professionally groomed cross-country ski areas, dozens of easily accessible lakes to ice fish on and miles of snowshoe trails. The Grand Mesa is the perfect place to get your Colorado winter fix and dogs are welcome!
Check out this blog for more ways to experience a different side of Colorado this winter or click here to view the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide.