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Grand Junction is surrounded by majestic beauty that is unique to Colorado and is famous for the one and only Nature's Trifecta. This natural wonder is a combination of three contrasting and unique geographical landscapes that can't be found anywhere else in the world! They include Colorado National Monument, known as the mini-Grand Canyon; the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world, bursting with over 300 alpine lakes; and Rattlesnake Canyon Arches, the second-most natural arches in the world. Grand Junction is proof that Mother Nature really does play favorites!
Colorado National Monument
Just 10 minutes from Downtown Grand Junction stands the majestic Colorado National Monument. As part of the National Park System, Colorado National Monument is often referred to as the “Heart of the World.” Discover over 43 miles of hiking trails and scenic overlooks and vistas – all without the crowds. For a truly surprising experience, stop at the Upper Ute Canyon View, walk to the left of the "mummy" and yell “cowabunga.” We promise you will not be disappointed. Colorado National Monument offers over 14 hiking trails that can be enjoyed year-round. You can also camp at Saddlehorn Campground any time of year, perfect for stargazing, where you can see brightly lit galaxies. When spring is in bloom, desert flowers add an extra pop of color to the desert landscape – from bright red to soft pastels. Winter snow dustings create enchanting vistas as the white powder contrasts with the red rock canyon walls, but the snow doesn’t last long, so you can enjoy dry desert trails within a day or two. If you prefer to “hike from your car,” you can leisurely drive through the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive, which has over 19 pullouts and overlooks, so you can take just a few steps and see sprawling majestic views.
Grand Mesa
The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-top mountain in the world, bursting with over 300 pristine alpine lakes, and is only a short 45-minute drive from Grand Junction. Hike among the wildflowers in the spring with waterfalls cascading down the steep cliffs. As summer approaches, the Grand Mesa is an easy respite from the high noon heat that Grand Junction sometimes experiences. Hiking, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, mountain biking, and OHV riding are all popular sports during the spring, summer, and fall seasons on the Grand Mesa. In fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of yellows, oranges, and reds, painting the landscape in golden hues. The Grand Mesa transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. You can enjoy nostalgic sledding down an old ski hill, try snowshoeing and backcountry skiing through alpine forests, and downhill ski at Powderhorn Mountain Resort, a Colorado ski resort without the high price tag or long lift lines.
Rattlesnake Canyon Arches
Colorado has arches! Rattlesnake Canyon Arches is the second-largest concentration of natural arches in the world and is located at Rattlesnake Canyon in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. There are 35 natural arches all within one mile of each other, with two ways to access them. The first is a strenuous 15.5-mile round-trip hike on the Pollock Bench trail, and the second is a shorter, but still difficult, route on the Upper Trailhead accessed from Glade Park. However, the Upper Trailhead route does require a 4-wheel drive and high clearance vehicle, so plan accordingly. It’s recommended to hike with a buddy for both trails. Here are detailed directions to Rattlesnake Canyon Arches to ensure a smooth arrival for your adventure. The Visitor Guide also has a very helpful resource, including a map and opening dates of both trails, as they typically close from February to April. If you’re looking to stay overnight in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, you can reserve campsites at Recreation.gov. There are also first-come, first-served spots available separate from the reservations.
For more ways to experience Grand Junction, check out the Official Grand Junction Adventure Guide.