There are few things in the world that transcends the peace and serenity that comes with watching the Colorado sun rise in the east and set in the west. Much like the rest of the state, Grand Junction is known for having some of the most captivating sunrises and sunsets in the world. The unique geography and captivating landscapes of the area cast dramatic shadows contrasting against the bright orange hue from 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
Cruise along the scenic 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 powerful morning panoramas of the red rock canyons. Another alluring 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. Bonus: 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 washes the cliff faces and jagged rock structures in glowing reds and oranges for a powerful reminder of Nature’s endless 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 hardest hikes in the area due to its steep elevation, but watching the sun peak over the Grand Mesa as it lights up the Grand Junction area below is well worth the climb. With a roundtrip 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 mid-day heat.
Best Sunset Locations in Grand Junction
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
True to its name, the Grand Mesa is the largest flat-top mountain in the world and it provides the most enchanting locations for some of the most magnificent sunsets near Grand Junction. Hike the Lost Lake Trail or the Mesa Lake Trail, which winds its way along a few of the over 300 lakes of the Grand Mesa. Marvel as the sun's rays reflect in the lake's sparkling waters. Alternatively, Land's End Observatory offers wide-open views of the San Juan Mountains and the Uncompahgre Plateau, which only gets better as the sun sets.
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 a picturesque sunset light show in the Grand Junction sky.
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 highlights 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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Sunhat
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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 raincoat
Where to eat before and after a sunrise or sunset in Grand Junction?
After an eventful morning in the Colorado mountains, head to Downtown Grand Junction for breakfast. Fuel up with a loaded bagel at Main Street Bagels, indulge in a French-inspired breakfast at Bistro 317, or stop by Dream Cafe for a hearty, all-American breakfast or a cinnamon roll that is 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 Cutting Board or The Hog and the Hen or explore more dining options here.
Experiencing a sunrise or sunset in Grand Junction is truly a memory you will never forget. For more ways to experience Grand Junction, check out the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide.