The holidays are here and Grand Junction is sending you warm, joyful wishes for the season! We’ve paired three iconic landscapes and Downtown with after-adventure rewards to give you extra incentive to check Nature’s Trifecta off of your bucket list. And when it comes to refueling, locals know best. These dining spots come highly recommended—read on to see what they have to say.
From the red-rock canyons of Colorado National Monument, to the airy winter powder atop the Grand Mesa, to the towering arches of Rattlesnake Canyon, we hope your winter is filled with cheer. These greetings from Nature’s Trifecta and Downtown Grand Junction invite you to slow down, savor the season, and welcome the new year with a special treat.
Merry Christmas from Colorado National Monument!
Known as a mini-Grand Canyon, Colorado National Monument is open for hiking year-round. So, you can still get your trekking fix. The trails remain mostly dry, with some snow that may last for a day or two, thanks to Grand Junction’s temperate climate. Slip on your sneakers and enjoy the comfortable temps as you explore. If you’re looking for a warmer adventure, you can “hike from your car” along Rim Rock Drive. There are 19 designated pull-outs that bring you conveniently to the most dramatic and breathtaking overlooks in the Monument.
Reward yourself with a cold brew from the newest restaurant in Grand Junction, WestCo Brewing Company.
“Stopped by last night for dinner and drinks. We were very impressed, food came out fast and hot. Everything was beyond delicious, pure perfection, seriously. Great beer selection, my wife and daughter loved the Raspberry Tangerine Sour but honestly, I'm coming back to taste more of the menu, so damn good!” – Jeff M.
Season’s Greetings from the Grand Mesa!
The Grand Mesa is the world’s largest flat-top mountain, and it transforms into a snowy playground each winter! With an average of 250 inches of snowfall per year, airy powder awaits only 45 minutes from Grand Junction. Head to Powderhorn Mountain Resort for downhill skiing without the crowds or high price tag of other Colorado ski resorts. Wear your Carhart jacket with confidence – you’ll fit right in! If you want to earn your turns, explore the backcountry terrain or log miles on the area’s snowshoeing trails. Don’t forget the classic family sledding trip – you’ll be giggling the whole way down Old Mesa Ski hill.
Rockslide Restaurant & Brewery is Grand Junction’s original brewery, meaning they have perfected their craft beverages for over 30 years!
“This place was absolutely spectacular! Got a flight and all 4 of the brews were tasty, with the Raspberry wheat being my favorite. As good as the beer was, the food was even better and the steak that we needed after a long day of Colorado hiking.” – Corine Graham
Cheers to the Season from Rattlesnake Arches!
Rattlesnake Arches is the second-largest concentration of natural arches in the world! There are two trails to access the arches: the Pollock Bench Trailhead, which is a 15.5-mile round-trip, and the Upper Trailhead, which requires a high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle that brings you closer to the trailhead. Both routes can be lengthy, so it is encouraged to hike with a buddy and bring extra water. While the gates to road access are closed from February 15 to April 15 due to wet conditions, you can still come see these wonders without the crowds any time of the year. Pollock Bench remains the same distance; however, if you take the Lower or Upper Access Road, you’ll have to hike further. Walk along the 76-foot Cedar Tree Arch for an epic experience, 43 feet in the air. For more information on how to access the arches and view a video of someone walking across Cedar Tree Arch, check out this guide.
Spoons Bistro & Bakery is sure to refuel you for your next adventure, featuring locally sourced ingredients and an array of gluten-free meals.
“Both of them got the kids waffle, it came with juice or milk. Me and my husband got the Colorado omelette it was amazing. My niece said the waffle was the best she ever had, my grandson said the same. Overall, one of my favorite places to eat! Beautiful outdoor seating area too” – Rachel Chadelain
Happy New Year from Downtown!
Downtown Grand Junction wishes you a happy New Year! Stroll this city park, featuring over 115 sculptures and murals that frame the extra-wide sidewalks. Some of the art pieces are even meant to be climbed on by kiddos! Even though you may have wrapped up your holiday shopping, you can still pop into unique and boutique shops for your own retail therapy, grab a steamy coffee, or even stop in for a wine tasting to celebrate!
Pair your stroll with a hearty breakfast from Bistro 317. They make their pastries daily, so freshness is guaranteed.
“Bistro 317 is one of those rare gems that blends warmth, artistry, and genuine culinary craft right in the heart of Downtown Grand Junction. From the moment we sat down, the experience felt thoughtfully curated, and the dishes that followed only elevated that impression.” – Bobby Goff
For more ways to explore, check out the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide.