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Winter in Grand Junction
Winter in Grand Junction means you can find sunshine and mild high-desert conditions at lower elevations, with plenty of snow at higher elevations on the Grand Mesa. Closer to Downtown, trails remain accessible for hiking and biking, while Powderhorn Mountain Resort and the surrounding mesa offer skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and other snowy adventures. The dramatic change in elevation makes it possible to spend the morning outside in the high desert, head up the mountain for a few hours in the snow, then come back to Grand Junction for dinner and a night out.
Winter Weather
Winters in Grand Junction tend to be cold and dry, with less snow at lower elevations than you might expect from a Colorado winter. Average daytime highs are around 39°F in December, 38°F in January and 46°F in February, while average nighttime lows range from about 17°F to 24°F during those months. Grand Junction averages only about 19 inches of snow annually, and sunny days are common throughout winter. When snow does fall, it often melts quickly under the high-desert sunshine.
Head higher, though, and you’ll find a very different winter. Grand Mesa receives abundant snowfall throughout the season, making it the place to go for skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and ice fishing. With elevations ranging from approximately 4,600 feet in Grand Junction to more than 10,000 feet on Grand Mesa, weather and temperatures can change considerably within a short drive. If you’re moving between Grand Junction and Grand Mesa, bring layers and check conditions before heading out.
Snow Activities & Winter Recreation
Skiing & Snow Activities on Grand Mesa
For a full day in the snow, head up to Powderhorn Mountain Resort, where 1,600 acres of terrain offer skiing and snowboarding for a range of abilities. The surrounding Grand Mesa has plenty more to explore, from snowshoeing and snowmobiling to ice fishing on its many frozen lakes and, of course, après-ski.
Cross-country skiers can find more than 30 miles of groomed trails maintained by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council across the County Line, Skyway and Ward trail systems. Check current grooming reports and trail maps before you go. You can also register for a lesson or clinic to sharpen your skills.
High-Desert Trails
Winter hiking and mountain biking offer a completely different way to experience the season closer to town. In Colorado National Monument, sunny days and lower elevations help snow melt, though shaded stretches can stay icy and snow-covered. If you want to make a weekend of it, there’s also great winter camping in Colorado National Monument.
The Lunch Loops Trail System can offer excellent winter riding when conditions are dry. After rain or snow, allow trails to dry completely before hiking or riding to help protect the terrain.
Holiday Events & Seasonal Celebrations
Downtown Holiday Traditions
Downtown Grand Junction starts the season with the Tree Lighting at 4th and Main, where Santa lights the tree and illuminates Main Street. Next up, the Parade of Lights fills Main Street with illuminated floats, marching bands and Santa moving beneath a sea of shimmering lights.
Festive Fridays during Downtown for the Holidays give you another reason to head Downtown after dark, with shops open late, carolers and pop-up entertainment. Don’t miss events like the Candy Cane Hunt, where families make crafts and hunt for candy canes in Lincoln Park. Or take part in the annual Chocolate Walk as you stroll Downtown admiring festive window displays and art sculptures while sipping hot chocolate from a commemorative mug from Enstrom Candies.
Holiday Lights in Grand Junction
The holiday spirit extends beyond Downtown, with festive lights and seasonal displays adding extra sparkle throughout the Grand Junction area. Make an evening of it by enjoying dinner Downtown, strolling beneath the lights along Main Street and checking the events calendar for holiday performances, markets and seasonal celebrations happening during your visit.
New Year’s Eve
Powderhorn Mountain Resort celebrates New Year’s Eve with its annual Torchlight Parade and fireworks. Skiers and riders stream down the mountain in a glowing line before fireworks burst overhead, while restaurants and venues around Grand Junction host dinners, parties and countdowns.
More Winter Trip Ideas
Ready to plan a winter getaway? Check out the Visitor Guide for more ideas, maps and itineraries, then find additional inspiration for your trip planning below. Before you arrive in Grand Junction this winter, be sure to check the events calendar for current performances, community gatherings and seasonal events to enjoy while you’re here!