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There are few things in the world that transcend the peace and serenity that comes with watching the Colorado sun rise in the east and set in the west. The Grand Junction area offers unforgettable sunrise and sunset experiences, where dramatic desert canyons, towering red rock formations, sprawling vineyards, and alpine landscapes create an ever-changing canvas of color. The unique geography and captivating landscapes of the area cast dramatic shadows contrasting against the bright orange and golden hues of the sun’s glow.
Best Sunrise Locations in Grand Junction
Grand Junction can be viewed from above in the Colorado National Monument, appearing through the soft glow of the early morning sunshine. While there are many popular places to catch a sunrise, these are some of the best spots.
Colorado National Monument
Photo by Steve Traudt
Cruise along the scenic 23-mile Rim Rock Drive to the Colorado National Monument to uncover some of the best sunrise spots in Grand Junction. Stop at the Grand View lookout to watch the first rays of the sun illuminate Monument Canyon, the Grand Junction area, and Independence Monument. For a different perspective, take a short hike along the Ute Canyon Trail, which offers sweeping morning panoramas of the red rock canyons.
Another favorite spot is Devil's Kitchen. Within a 0.75-mile hike from Rim Rock Drive, you can watch the sun's rays color the towering spires and rock formations surrounding you.
The Book Cliffs View is a popular wedding spot because it offers mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views of the Colorado National Monument.
Devils Canyon Trail in McInnis Canyons
Within less than a half-hour drive from Grand Junction, you can experience the moderately challenging local favorite, Devils Canyon Trail that cuts through McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. Watch as the sun rises and lights up the cliff faces and jagged rock formations with glowing reds and oranges for a powerful reminder of nature’s beauty.
Mount Garfield
To capture one of the most stunning sunrise views in Grand Junction, hike to the top of Mount Garfield. This hike is one of the most challenging hikes in the area due to its steep elevation, but watching the sun peek over the Grand Mesa as it lights up the Grand Junction area below is well worth the climb. With a round-trip distance of about 4 miles and an elevation gain of about 2,000 feet, Mount Garfield Trail is considered a strenuous hike. If you are conquering this mountain during the summer season, it is recommended to make this trek in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
Best Sunset Locations in Grand Junction
Photo by Cristy Deutsch
After a day full of outdoor adventure and activities, nothing beats watching the sun go down at one of these top spots to catch a sunset in Grand Junction.
Grand Mesa
Photo by Katie Skalla
True to its name, the Grand Mesa is the largest flat-top mountain in the world, and it provides countless opportunities to experience spectacular sunsets near Grand Junction. Hike the Lost Lake Trail or the Mesa Lake Trail, which winds its way along some of the 300 lakes that are scattered across the Grand Mesa. Marvel as the sun's rays reflect across the lakes’ sparkling waters.
Alternatively, Land's End Observatory offers wide-open views of the San Juan Mountains and the Uncompahgre Plateau, where sunsets paint the horizon in brilliant shades of gold, orange, and crimson.
Devil's Kitchen Restaurant
Devil's Kitchen Trail in Colorado National Monument is a great hike and an amazing place to explore during the day; however, when it comes to watching a Grand Junction sunset, the Devil’s Kitchen Restaurant located on the top floor of Hotel Maverick is hard to beat.
Make reservations for a table by the floor-to-ceiling windows or dine on the outdoor patio and enjoy a delicious meal as you soak in panoramic sunset views over the surrounding red rock landscape.
Rattlesnake Arches
If you are up for an adventure, visit Rattlesnake Arches for a one-of-a-kind Grand Junction sunset. Start by driving through Colorado National Monument on Rim Rock Drive, turn onto N 16 ½ Road, and then Black Ridge Road. Take the Upper or Lower Access Road (depending on the time of year) to reach the Rattlesnake Arches Trailhead. The road to the trailhead requires four-wheel drive and a high-clearance vehicle. Follow the trail to the top of the Cedar Tree Arch for a unique vantage point to view the sunset. Watch as the vibrant display of orange, pink, and purple hues illuminates the natural beauty of the arches and canyons that surround you.
What to bring on a hike to watch a sunrise or sunset in Grand Junction?
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Water bottle
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Sunglasses
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Sun hat
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Sunscreen
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Camera
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Snacks
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Bug spray
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Warm and dry layers including a fleece, jacket, and rain jacket
Where to eat before and after a sunrise or sunset in Grand Junction?
After an eventful morning exploring the Colorado mountains, head to Downtown Grand Junction for breakfast. Fuel up with a loaded bagel at Main Street Bagels, enjoy a locally inspired breakfast at Bistro 317, or stop by Dream Cafe for a hearty, all-American breakfast or a cinnamon roll that is almost the size of your face!
If you want to pack a picnic dinner for a sunset expedition in Grand Junction, grab a sandwich from The Hog and the Hen or explore more dining options here.
Experiencing a sunrise or sunset in the Grand Junction area is a memory you’ll treasure long after the colors fade. From welcoming a new day along the rim of Colorado National Monument to watching the evening sky glow above the Grand Mesa, these moments showcase the remarkable landscapes that make Grand Junction so memorable. For more ways to experience Grand Junction, check out the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide.