5 Minute Read
As summer's warmth gives way to fall's embrace, the Grand Mesa transforms into a canvas of shimmering golds and vibrant crimson hues. Fall adventurers find themselves drawn to the world’s largest flat-top mountain where 300 alpine lakes elegantly mirror the blazing colors of the surrounding aspen groves and pine forests. The Mesa is only a short 45-minute drive from Grand Junction and rises over 10,000 feet in elevation, promising year-round adventures that shift with each of Colorado's distinct seasons.
Whether you're hiking through leaf-strewn trails, casting a line in the crystal clear waters, or paddling across a lake as it reflects the autumn sky, the Grand Mesa is truly one of nature’s greatest accomplishments.
Hiking
Land O’ Lakes Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Round Trip Distance: 1 mile
- Elevation Gain: 49 feet
- Cost: Free Parking
The Land O' Lakes Trail offers a half-mile paved path with each step bringing you closer to a breathtaking overlook. At the overlook, the vast Grand Mesa landscape unfolds in a patchwork of golden aspens and evergreens, punctuated by the shimmering surface of the Grand Mesa’s largest lake, Island Lake. This family-friendly and wheelchair accessible trail is perfect for those looking to get a glimpse of the Grand Mesa and its fall colors.
Mesa Creek Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Round Trip Distance: 3.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 900 feet
- Cost: Free Parking
Starting at the base of Old Powderhorn, a popular sledding hill during the winter, the Mesa Creek Trail provides a light elevation gain of about 900 feet, multiple dry creek crossings and a mix of pine and aspen forests that surround the well-maintained path. In the fall, the aspens glow with vibrant yellow hues, creating a rich contrast with the deep green pines. This trail parallels Mesa Creek most of the way, making for a peaceful climb alongside the sound of the rushing water in the nearby stream. If you look closely at the creek, you may even see some of the trout!
Crag Crest
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Round Trip Distance: 11.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,548 feet
- Cost: Free Parking
If you seek an unforgettable fall experience with a challenging elevation gain, the Crag Crest Trail offers an unparalleled perspective of the Grand Mesa. As you embark from the West Trailhead, the first 1.5 miles are foot traffic only, guiding you through a vivid canvas of rich oranges and brilliant yellows. The cool, energizing breeze carries the earthy scent of fallen leaves as you begin to climb in elevation. Around almost every turn, a new breathtaking view is revealed. Lakes like Wolverine, Rockland, Butts, and Upper Eggleston can all be seen from the trail. From the east end of the ridge crest, you can either continue the full loop or turn back the same way you came. If you continue, the loop heads down near the Upper Hotel and Hotel Lakes, where the dazzling autumn colors reflect off the water, creating a scene that begs for a photograph. Conclude the loop by crossing near Arch Slough before returning to the Lower Trail where you began.
Picnicking
Glacier Springs
- Cost: $8 per vehicle per day
The Glacier Springs Picnic Area, located below Beaver Lake and along the Mesa Lake shoreline, is ideal for a family picnic while taking in the stunning views of fall foliage. Read a book, take a nap, or hike the Glacier Springs Cutoff trail, which travels through a lush forest for one mile and connects with the Rim View trail.
Ward Way Picnic Site
- Cost: Free Parking
Ward Way Picnic Site is located between Deep Ward Lake and Alexander Lake, and offers a unique view of the lakes framed by autumn’s rich colors. After your meal, explore the Ward Lake Trail, which provides scenic hikes through open grasslands and spruce-fir groves. If you’re interested in fishing, Ward Lake allows motorized boating and is stocked with trout, making it a great spot to cast a line.
Fishing
Mesa Lakes Area and Sunset Lake
- Cost: $8 per vehicle per day
Experience the magic of fall at the Mesa Lakes Area, where the beauty of the season enhances your fishing escape. The sharp air and rustling leaves create a peaceful ambiance as you cast your line near wheelchair-accessible, paved spots ideal for all anglers. At Mesa Lake Picnic Area and along the shore, the chance of a rewarding catch in well-stocked reservoirs adds excitement to your visit. Sunset Lake also features a wheelchair-accessible fishing pier, ensuring everyone can enjoy the season’s beauty.
Bull Creek Reservoirs 5 & 2
- Cost: Free Parking
For another option, head to Bull Basin Trail, where the calm fall landscape provides a charming setting for fishing. The trail, less than a mile long, guides you from Bull Creek Reservoir No. 5 to No. 2. The autumn air and the soft sound of leaves underfoot make each cast more enjoyable, while the chance to reel in a record trout adds to the thrill of the season.
Canoe & Kayak
Kitson Reservoir and Forty Acre Lake
- Cost: Free Parking
Since gas-powered boats are prohibited in Kitson Reservoir and Forty Acres Lake, you can find pristine paddling among the Grand Mesa’s fall foliage. Whether you plan to cast a line from your canoe or kayak or just looking to drift and take in the views, Kitson and Forty Acres are both excellent options.
Off-Highway Vehicle – OHV
West Green River Mountain Trail to Eureka Reservoirs
This 8.5-mile out-and-back trail climbs 1,538 feet in elevation and plunges you straight into fall’s golden glow. Ride through wide-open meadows where sweeping landscapes stretch for miles, then slip into shimmering aspen groves where leaves dance around you like confetti. Sparkling alpine reservoirs tucked along the trail create the perfect spot to catch your breath and soak in the crisp mountain air before the ride back.
Lands End OHV Route
Discover this mild 20.2-mile out-and-back trail with only 960 feet in elevation gain. Lands End is a popular trail for off-road driving and rewarding vistas. Some of the most majestic overlooks on the Grand Mesa are along Lands End Road. Bonus: There is a waterfall on the right-hand side going up the road on the second-to-last switchback. Take your water bottle because this water is as clean and pure as it gets! Dogs are welcome to join you and may be off-leash as long as they are under voice control.
Explore pages 12-13 of the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide for extensive Grand Mesa seasonal tips!