Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Grand Junction, Colorado! 6 Recommended Tourist Spots

Grand Junction is a city of about 58,000 people located in Mesa County in western Colorado. Situated in a canyon known as the Grand Valley, it has earned the nickname “The River City.” Surrounded by abundant nature, the outskirts offer vast, sweeping Colorado landscapes.
It is also well-known as a popular destination for mountain biking, attracting enthusiasts from all over the United States. In addition, winter sports such as skiing are popular, and festivals are held in the winter season. Here are some recommended sightseeing spots in nature-rich Grand Junction.

1. Grand Mesa

A mesa is a table-shaped plateau formed by erosion. Grand Mesa in Grand Junction, Colorado, is known as one of the largest table-top plateaus in the world and is a popular tourist attraction.
The plateau rises about 1,500 meters above the surrounding land and has an area of about 1,300 square kilometers. You can hike up to the summit via trails, and on a clear day, enjoy magnificent views of Colorado’s vast landscape.
In summer, you can enjoy fishing, camping, and hiking, while in winter, you can go skiing. It’s also recommended for nature observation, with its wildlife and alpine plants. The autumn foliage is beautiful as well, making it a year-round destination and one of Grand Junction’s must-see attractions.

2. Downtown

The downtown area of Grand Junction is full of attractions. Numerous galleries around town showcase paintings and photographs depicting the grandeur of Colorado’s landscapes, including Grand Junction. Be sure to stop by while sightseeing.
You can also enjoy spending time with the locals at cafés, restaurants, and bars. Gift shops offer opportunities to find souvenirs of your Grand Junction trip. There are also museums, concert halls, and many events held throughout the year.
Hotels are available, so you can stay downtown and head out to visit the surrounding nature parks.

3. Cross Orchards Historic Site

This is a history museum in Grand Junction that preserves an early 20th-century orchard, offering a glimpse into life at that time. It’s one of Grand Junction’s popular tourist spots.
The site features displays such as a workers’ mess hall, blacksmith shop, general store, old farming machinery, tools, and horse-drawn wagons. Many railcars from the Uintah Railway, which greatly contributed to the development of local ranches and mines, are also on display.
The orchard once had vast lands with 22,000 apple trees, though it has since been reduced to one-tenth of its original size. During apple harvest season, a festival is held, bringing excitement to the town. It’s well worth a visit during your trip.

4. Whitewater Hill Vineyards

Grand Junction, Colorado, is also known as a wine city. In fact, there are more than 20 wineries in the area, making it a great place for wine tourism. Whitewater Hill Vineyards is one such winery, offering free tours and tastings. There’s also an on-site gift shop where you can purchase wine.

Colorado wines are known for their fruity, refreshing taste—perfect for a souvenir of your trip. With many wineries nearby, each with its own character, wine tasting tours are especially fun. The winery is in a scenic location, making it an ideal picnic spot. If you visit Grand Junction, be sure to stop by a winery.

5. Dominguez Canyon Wilderness

Dominguez Canyon Wilderness is a vast nature park within a protected natural area southeast of Grand Junction. Established in 2009, it is one of the largest parks in Colorado. A river flows through the center of the canyon, creating an oasis that is home to birds and many other creatures.

Hiking is highly recommended here, and if you’re lucky, you might spot bighorn sheep. Several trails offer views of rivers, waterfalls, and petroglyphs created by Native Americans. It’s an excellent spot to experience Colorado’s rugged scenery. Be sure to enjoy the canyon when visiting Grand Junction.

6. Colorado National Monument

Located in western Colorado and partly within Grand Junction city limits, Colorado National Monument is one of the most renowned tourist attractions in the United States. It’s about a 20-minute drive from downtown Grand Junction.
Part of the Colorado Plateau, it features vast, desolate landscapes. Hiking trails, horseback riding routes, and cycling paths are available for active visitors. Observation points offer breathtaking views of Colorado’s scenery, making it ideal for sightseeing and driving tours. Within the park, you’ll find uniquely named rock formations such as Independence Monument, Kissing Couple, and Coke Ovens. Enjoy the spectacular views!

◎ Summary

Much of Grand Junction, Colorado, is made up of natural parks where outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, and trekking are popular. Feel the Grand Junction breeze as you stay active. Be sure to bring clothing suitable for outdoor adventures. When you visit, make the most of the great outdoors!

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Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Grand Junction, Colorado! 6 Recommended Tourist Spots