A Visitor's Guide to Hiking In Grand Junction Colorado
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Colorado National Monument: Where the Best Hiking in Grand Junction, Colorado Happens!
Grand Junction, Colorado, located on the western slope of the state five hours from Denver, is a town full of sites to see.
Grand Junction’s beautiful mountains and mesas are truly awe inspiring!
Home to Colorado National Monument, one can view dinosaur fossils that have been found in the area, stunning sandstone arches and Colorado's largest "flat-top" mountain. In addition to its unique landscape features, visitors are able to travel through the peach country of Palisade or explore incredible biking and hiking trails (especially early in the morning when it's cooler).
Don't forget to pair your outdoor ventures with a stop at some of Grand Junction's locally produced vineyards and restaurants.
With such an array of activities and sights located within close proximity to each other, hiking in Grand Junction Colorado is sure to provide adventure seekers with an unforgettable experience!
Perfect for a quick getaway or a longer vacation, head to this trio of towns to explore Colorado National Monument hiking trails, sip some wine from one of the 25+ vineyards, stand up paddle board (SUP) on the Colorado RIver, and drink some great beer.
HIking in Grand Junction Colorado is a year round activity!
Hiking in Grand Junction Colorado
There is so much hiking in Grand Junction Colorado. Today’s journey takes us to Colorado National Monument, a hidden reliac on the Colorado Western Slope within minutes of Grand Junction’s downtown.
Do you have to pay to see Colorado National Monument?
Yes, as part of the Colorado National Park and Monuments registry, you’ll need a pass to get in. Buy an annual National Park Pass for $80/year or simply pay the one time entry fee of $15/vehicle.
FEE FREE DAYS:
Get free entrance into the Colorado National Monument 5 days a year - including Martin Luther King, Jr. and Juneteeth.
PSSST! Did you know if you have a 4th grader, your entire family can get FREE into ANY national and state park? Learn about the Every Kid Outdoors Pass.
Are reservations required for the Colorado National Monument?
Nope! At this time you can come and go as you please. In fact, many local runners use the paved road winding through the park for some great uphill workouts.
Park Hours: Open 24 hours day/year round
Hiking Grand Junction Colorado National Monument should be high on your TO DO list!
Table of Contents
Top 5 hikes in Colorado Monument
Monument Canyon and Wedding Canyon
Liberty Cap Trail
Coke Ovens
Canyon Rim Trail to Window Rock
Lower Monument Canyon
Rattlesnake Arches Trail
Grand Mesa Hikes
Mesa Top Trail to Flowing Park Reservoir
Palisade Plunge
Grand Junction Hops - Restaurants and Breweries
Where to Stay in Grand Junction
Palisade and Fruita Hops
Colorado National Monument
John Otto, a simple miner, discovered the awesome mesas and rocks of Colorado National Monument while working on nearby pipelines.
"I came here last year and found these canyons, and they felt like the heart of the world to me".
Public photo from CO National Monument Visitor Center
Falling in love with this land, he created the main access road - Rim Rock Drive - with his own hands.
So devoted to this park, his wedding to artist Beatrice Farnham took place at the base of Independence Monument.
Unfortunately she didn’t love it quite as much as he did and less than a year later, said “good bye” and headed back home, leaving John to tend to his park as a single man.
But thanks to Jim and his infamous wedding, we can walk this spectacular trail to Independence Monument, one of a few must do Colorado National Monument hikes!
Our Five Favorite Hikes in Colorado National Monument
With so many things to do in Grand Junction, make the Colorado National Monument your first stop! Twenty-five hiking trails, varied in difficulty and mileage, offer a special insight into this often missed national park.
But first, check out our summer hiking in Grand Junction Tips!
LAYER UP - Mornings hiking in Grand Junction Colorado are often chilly but it gets hot real quick.
Save the souvenir cotton t-shirt for post hike bragging rights. NO COTTON! You want wicking fabric. Try one of our favorite sunshirts!
HYDRATE HYDRATE HYDRATE. Did we mention it gets hot here? Bring at 1L water for every hour or 90 minutes you are out hiking.
Consider using a water bladder to easily access water without having lug a bottle the entire hike.
GAITERS keep little rocks out of your shoes. It’s a pain to stop constantly and shake those puppies out!
Get a good pair of HIKING SHOES OR BOOTS. Many of these trails are very rocky! It’s nice to have that protection cushion for your toes!
Take a deep dive into beginners hiking tips and what to wear on a Colorado hike. It will save you precious time, a headache and maybe even your life!
OUR GO-TO GEAR FOR COLORADO HIKING TRAILS IN 2024:
We love the Osprey Sirrus Hiking Daypack for women, or the Stratos version for men, for carrying water, layers, and snacks on Colorado day hikes
Lightweight, versatile Hiking Poles built for a full day’s send on the trail — hike longer and stronger
2L or 3L Water Reservoir — This affordable reservoir is easy to fill
Patagonia Torrentshell - a true waterproof rain jacket and fantastic layering piece
Nano Puff Jacket - our favorite for 3 seasons in Colorado
Smartwool Glove Liners - the best all season gloves for those high altitude hikes
Salomon hiking shoes - waterproof, comfy and hard working for any type of hike
Sunrise on Monument Canyon Trail
Monument Canyon and Wedding Canyon
Mileage: 7.2 miles Route: Lollipop Elevation Gain: 961’
At the trailhead parking lot, just off Hwy 340W, decide which way you want to hike. Counterclockwise takes you up and over boulders and loose rock to the main trail. Clockwise starts you along a fence that separates the park from private homes. If you choose the latter option, you’ll have shade for most of your hike. It’s a steady but minimal uphill clockwise.
You’ll find yourself hiking across the canyon floor with great red rocks on either side. Head out in the morning and beautiful large shadows dance alongside you as the hike winds around shrubs, up rocky hills and opens to the canyon floor. The rocks are stridated with red, oranges, yellows and whites. It’s easy to see why John Otto chose this way for his wedding march.
While the terrain is rocky, the views are stellar. You’ll feel dwarfed by the ginormous rocks.
CoHH TIP! Colorado National Monument hikes, particularly this one, has quite a few miles but is kid friendly as long as they have snacks, water and encouragement. However, the elevation Grand Junction Colorado sits at, 4,646’, requires some extra effort. Be prepared to huff and puff a bit throughout the park.
TH Directions: I70 W to exist 28 following 24 Rd. Continue onto Redlands Parkway to CO 340W/Broadway. Left on Fawn.
Liberty Cap Trail
Mileage: 10 miles (up to 12.9 mile depending on how many detours you take)
Route: Out and Back Elevation Gain: 2,004"‘
The first 2 miles are a steady uphill as you ascend the cap hiking in Grand Junction Colorado National Monument. For the next 5 miles or so, you’ll be hiking in the monument. Depending on the direction you take will determine your views - you will have a stellar picture of the Grand Valley on this hike.
Once you get to Liberty Cap, enjoy a gradual climb through the forest. 4 challenging miles and the rest is moderately easy.
Plus hiking in Grand Junction or at least within a few minutes of it gives you easy access to an ice cold brew or ice cream cone minutes from the trailhead!
CoHH TIP! You can turn this into a loop by adding a 3 mile road walk over to Ute Canyon.
TH Directions: I70 W to exist 28 following 24 Rd. Continue onto Redlands Parkway to CO 340W/Broadway. Left onto Wildwood Drive. Stay on Wildwood Drive for 1/2 mile or so. TH is on the right.
The Coke Ovens are truly a feast to behold!
Coke Ovens
Mileage: 1 mile Route: out and back Elevation Gain: 173 feet
A perfect family hike, Coke Ovens Trail got its name from the coke shaped ovens. These ovens were used to transform coal into coke, a fuel that produces little to no gas when burned.
The main star in these formations is EROSION. These formations got their name because of the unique eroding of two layers: Kayenta formation layers were worked away by the elements, exposing the Wingate formation beneath it.
You’ll begin the hike going down so save those gummy bear treats for the way up. Hiking in Grand Junction Colorado on this trail takes you around the rim of the canyon. You will be up close and personal with the formations with many photo opportunities along the way.
TH Directions: I70W to exit 19 (US6/Fruita). Follow 340 E to Rimrock Road. Turn right on Monument Road continuing onto Rimrock Road (This is a toll road.) TH will be on the left.
Canyon Rim Trail To Window Rock
Mileage: 1.8 miles Route: out and back Elevation Gain: 246’
CoHH TIP! Word of caution before beginning this hike. There are several steep drop offs without railings as you traverse the trails. Keep an eye on little kids!
You’ll start at the Park’s Visitor Center. Make sure to carve out a bit of time to read about this geological masterpiece of a park.
A pleasant walk along the rim, you’ll have stunning views of the rock formations as you hike. It’s a great starter hike to get a feel for the park. Combine this hike with one of the others listed here for a longer day in the park.
If you have to pay to park, like you do here, take advantage of all the entire day in the Colorado National Monument.
TH Directions: I70W to exit 19 (US6/Fruita). Follow 340 E to Rimrock Road. Turn right on Monument Road continuing onto Rimrock Road (This is a toll road.) TH will be on the left.
Lower Monument Canyon
Mileage: 6 miles Route: Elevation Gain: 4,700’ to 6,140’
Starting at the trailhead for Wedding Canyon Trail, you’ll find yourself hiking along a fenced subdivision. Stick with it. Once you get pass this area, the views open up as you start climbing up.
This trail converges with several others in the park, meeting up at Independence Monument where ‘ole John Otto had his doomed wedding ceremony.
A relatively easy hike, you will probably come across some big horn sheep, at least a dozen colored lizards and even a fun pancake rock to do some photo shoots.
A fun hike with little elevation makes this a great family excursion! Rocky Mountain Hiking Trails does a stellar job detailing each portion of this trail including several spurs to take.
The entire Monument Trail, linked below, is almost 12 miles. You’ll see signs to just do the lower route.
TH Directions: I 70W. Take exit 19 (US6/Fruita), heading south to just beyond mile marker #5, roughly 2.1 miles past the junction to the road leading into Colorado National Monument.
Rock Rim Drive
Glade Park Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81507
If you have time for more hiking in Grand Junction, we highly recommend heading to the Colorado National Monument for sunrise or sunset to take in the majesty of this expansive rock.
Rock Rim Drive, a 22.4 mile route takes you along the rim of the canyons. Watch out for bikers, ambitious runners (yep, early mornings seem to be their scene) and motorcycles.
GIve yourself at least 2 hours to take in the views at various pull outs along the way. While most of the pull outs have great views, our favorites were Grand View, Artist’s Point and Independence Monument View.
FREEBIE MUST DO HIKE!
Hiking in Grand Junction Colorado is a stunning affair. If you have the time, fortitude and are physically fit, add an extra day to hike Rattlesnake Arches. A mesmerizing foray into desert hiking, this almost desolate hike takes you to many stunning arches that rival Utah’s mighty five!
Below is a detailed plan for tackling Rattlesnake Arches. When we did this hike, our first day was fraught with deep frustration trying to find the trailhead. Learn from our mistakes, read below and follow our lead.
We will not lead you astray!
Valley floor view on Rattlesnake Trail
Rattlesnake Arches Trail
MIleage: 14.3 miles (we clocked 15+miles) Route: Out and Back Elevation: 2,542’
Trail Details
Trailhead: Pollock Bench Trailhead in Fruita, CO
Directions: CO 340W. Take a left to Kingsview Road. Continue on to Horsethief Canyon Road. TH will be on your left.
Just minutes from Grand Junction and Colorado National Monument lies the local’s hiking crown jewel: Rattlesnake Arches Trail.
This trail winds through miles of desert beauty, landing you at THE ARCHES.
Yep, we said ARCHES! Utah isn’t the only place that boasts amazing awe inspiring natural arches.
Sure, Arches National Park is about two hours from Grand Junction. BUT why endure that drive and tangle with hundreds of tourists when you can have these amazing views to yourself? Hiking in Grand Junction, especially on this trail, gives you views with very little people. Win/Win in our book.
When we hiked it, we passed one person the entire day! This hiking trail is a hidden treasure.
How to Get there
Way 1: The easy way - well, maybe not so much.
At around 2 miles from the actual 8 arches, the Upper Rattlesnake Trail is a great 4x4 or ATV option.
You will 100% need to check the weather - any rain will cause massive issues and a potential dangerous situation. It’s closed half the year because weather can play a major role on this road.
Still keen on knocking off walking miles for teeth chattering, backroad fun? Head here for more details.
Way 2: The local’s favorite way - hike it - yep, all 15+ miles of it.
Trust us, the effort you put into hiking will be rewarded with stunning canyon views. Start early to experience the awe inspiring sunrise over Grand Junction as you begin hiking up the hills from the trailhead (TH).
You need to prepare for this hike!
This is one hike you MUST carry a backpack and water. Essential hiking gear is critical if you run into any issues.
There are no water points along this trail.
The day we hiked it, we lucked out with a teeny tiny cloud blocking the sun for most of our trek. However, we still gulped through 5 liters of water each, wishing for more by the end!
If you’re new to the whole “backpack hiking gear” gig, check out our full blog post.
We take the guesswork out for you.
That said, Osprey has an amazing online tool that gives you the best pack size for your body style. Everyone comes in different shapes and sizes with unique and wonderful needs. Take this simple quiz and find out just what pack will work for you!
Sunrise near the trailhead of Rattlesnake Canyon Trail
Truly a spectacular way to start a hike, getting out before 5 am on summer days ensures most of the hike is done before the heat of the day hits. This trail has no water resources. Plan on carrying at least 4 liters of water.
LOCAL TIP! If you’re new to hiking in Colorado, check out some beginners hiking tips. Oftentimes you won’t feel sweaty, creating a false sense of hydration. Adding an electrolyte to water adds needed salt into your body. This particular hike is sun exposed. Hiking at the elevation Grand Junction Colorado sits sometimes keeps sweating at bay while still sucking hydration out of you at alarming rates. Learn how to stay hydrated on trail!
A water bladder or hydration reservoir is your best friend on the Colorado trail. There are many options. At minimum get a 1.5 L bladder. We are partial to Osprey as they fit perfectly in our favorite daypacks.
No matter what reservoir you choose, fill it and drink it. Every hour or so on a hot hike, consider taking an electrolyte. They are your BFF when it comes to altitude headaches and dehydration. We are a bit partial to Cliff Bloks margarita flavor.
Hey, who said you can’t party on the trail right?
The first mile of Rattlesnake Canyon trail
You’ll start going up - remember this is an almost 2,000 vertical elevation gain hike. Fuel and hydrate accordingly. A wide gray rocky path takes you to the top of the first mesa. As you’re hiking in Grand Junction, check out the city’s stunning views at this juncture.
Many social trails can lead you off course. Keep your map open and stay close to the mesa’s edge. You’ll be heading down into the canyon floor.
Local Tip! Download the COTREX or AllTrails app to your phone prior to the hike. This is one Grand Junction hike you’ll want to know your way. Consider purchasing a paper map at a local hiking store or REI for the most reliable routes.
To the right is where you came from. Note trail winding down to the left, taking you to the canyon floor.
Around mile 3, you’ll have completed your first mesa summit and descent, taking you deep into the canyon floor. Walk along a relatively flat trail for a while and enjoy the moment and the shade. This is one of only a few areas of the hike where the sun isn’t radiating down on you.
CoHH TIP! Hydrate and fuel when it’s cool out. You might not feel hungry but your body will thank you around mile 10. This was key for our Grand Canyon Rim to Rim to Rim hike. Your tummy can get rumbly real quick when you’ve failed to fuel.
If you find yourself needing a bathroom break, make sure to follow hiker protocol. Carry out in a WAG bag or dig a cathole, making sure that any paper products you use are taken out with you. Don’t bury toilet paper!
There is not much worse than bolting to a shrub, quickly digging a cathole and hoping no one sees you. Trust us, we know!
Traverse rocks and climb, sometimes with your hands on canyon walls. Between miles 4 and 5 ascend 600 feet scaling the canyon walls, perhaps causing a few hair raising moments. Breath deep, get a firm hold, and hoist yourself up the canyon walls.
This section is the tricky to navigate and requires reaching and pulling. If you are leary of heights, this will be the hardest part of the hike. It’s a relatively short stretch and worth it to get up and over.
This is the part of the hike where your shoes shine or let you down! Small rocks, large ridges and jagged granite make this part of the hike challenging if your feet aren’t properly attired.
If you’re searching for the right Colorado hiking footwear, we’ve taken the guesswork out for you. The right or wrong pair of hiking footwear will make or break your time on the trail.
Rest for a bit and look around. So many of the rocks resemble curious desert creatures and household items. We enjoyed naming the rocks as we moved forward along the canyon floor.
As with most hiking near Grand Junction, there is so much to take in. While this is a long hike, take time to soak in the varied ecosystem. Unlike high altitude hikes in Colorado, this area has unique rock colors, desert like plants, colorful lizards and snakes. While we’re not fans of that latter catatory, it’s truly a gift to explore such a diverse area of Colorado.
Large rock you’ll hike around. On the other side lies the 8 amazing arches!
Around mile 5 you’ll level out, approaching the final segment before you arrive at the arches.
After cresting a final hill (watch for cairns along the way, they help tremendously), you’ll see a gigantic rock. Spend the next mile (a little less) walking alongside this behemoth. You might be tempted, like us, to find a way over the rocks. DON’T DO IT!
Some have and declare, at least on All Trails comments, that it was sketchy at best, dangerous at worse.
LOCAL TIP! Trails are created for the hikers enjoyment. Trails also do a pretty darn good job of protecting the natural ecosystem, if hikers stay on them. While it’s tempting to go off trail in an exploration expedition, please pause and think. Local habits can be disrupted, animal homes destroyed, flooding from eroded paths along with a host of other issues occur when off roading. Practice basic trail etiquette.
Do the work and hike on! You’re almost there. As soon as you round the corner, around mile 6ish, the arches make themselves known. Yep, you’ll run smack dab into a line of 8 amazing arches.
This was of course, our favorite part of the trail. The arches continue for around a mile or so, snaking along a ridge of impressive canyons to your right.
Take your time and lots of pictures. It’s the reason you climbed boulder walls, endured exposed trails and got up so dang early after all!
COHH Tips to conquer Rattlesnake Arches trail
Bring water and a lot of it! We each carried 4 liters and could have used at least one more a piece. There is not water sources anywhere on this hike.
Start early. Most of the hike has no shade with small pockets of scrub oak and low lying shrubs along the way.
Download the trail map on your phone. All Trails has pretty decent directions with a few points that can lead you astray. That said, it’s better to have some semblance of a trail vs. nothing at all.
Stay alert! Portions of the trail, particularly between miles 4-6 include steep bouldering. This is a great time to conquer your fear of heights however young children might struggle. As reasonably tall people, mid 5’ range, we did a lot of reaching and pulling of ourselves up ledges.
Hiking shoes are a must. The terrain is very rocky for most of the hike. Whether you’re a low top boot wearer or an ankle high support shoe hiker, we got your covered with our favorites.
Wear a lightweight form fitting backpack and stock it well. Not sure what to put in your pack? We devoted an entire post to favorite snacks, essential gear and how to pack your backpack for a long day hike.
Our Outdoorsy gift guide has CoHH favorite hiking gear. We are firm believers in buying quality for long term wear and tear. Colorado altitude hiking is a blast if you are prepared.
Wildflowers along Mesa Top Trail
Hiking Near Grand Junction - The Grand Mesa
We’d be remiss to leave out Grand Mesa, this Colorado western slope gem. In Colorado miles, it’s literally like you’re hiking in Grand Junction Colorado. For visitors, plan on around an hour drive from Grand Junction. When the temperatures rise on the trails at Colorado National Monument, hiking near Grand Junction is the perfect reprieve.
This area boasts skiing in the winter, along with well groomed cross country and snowshoe trails. Summer months are filled with mountain bikers and hikers.
Mesa Top Trail to Flowing Park Reservoir
Mileage 14.6 miles Elevation gain 1,046 ft. Route type Out & back
How to Get There: From Grand Junction, take I70 East. Take exit 49 to merge onto CO-65 N. Turn right onto Forest Rd 1151B. The Trailhead will be on your left.
We got up to the trailhead late, around 10 am. However there was still plenty of parking, particularly for RVs, ATVs and horse trailers. The drive to Grand Mesa is stunning as you make your way up the mountain winding through wide paved roads.
NOTE! There are restrooms at the trailhead.
While this trail is used year round, the best times, in our opinion, are summer months - late June through early September. Bring bug spray and water - both will be needed on this hike!
The trail starts in a meadow, then continues past a small lake and through a wooded area and eventually along the the edge of a beautiful overlook just at the 3rd mile mark.
Views of lakes from our lunch spot
Keep in mind you’ll gradually head downhill until the turn around point, then back up. No portion is very steep which makes for a moderate hike!
Views of ponds, large lakes, wildflowers, and lush meadows interspersed with pine trees make hiking in Grand Junction tolerable. (Because an hour counts as in Grand Junction right? wink)
Palisade Plunge
Mileage: 14.3 miles Elevation gain: 826 ft Route type: Point to point
How to Get There: From Grand Junction, take US-50 E to F S Rd/Lands End Rd. Drive to F S Rd. Destination will be on your right.
This is a favorite mountain biker’s trail. However, hiking near Grand Junction should include low elevation and stunning views right?
There are conflicting reports about mileage for this trail. Depending on where you start and where you stop determines your distance. While that seems to be a no brainer, take a gander on All Trails and enjoy the reviews and corrections.
We were short on time so only hiked a few miles along the trail. Sandy areas with some tight spots made it disconcerting for me, a person who hates heights! You do have stunnings views of Grand Junction and Palisade throughout the hike.
If you’re a hiker and biker, consider gearing up and riding this hiking trail!
Grand Junction Hops
With so many things to do in Grand Junction, our first stop after a hike is always a cold brew. We only recommend places we’ve been to and these happen to be CoHH favorites.
The Goat and Clover Tavern
336 Main St #104, Grand Junction, CO
Irish charm meets the Old West at the Goat and Clover Tavern. This brewery restaurant features great European beer like Guinness and Magners cider along with local microbrew favorites.
Order a side of the cauliflower buffalo wings. Even though you might not be vegetarian, these are a stand out crowd favorite. Great service and solid A+ food!
Octopus Coffee
759 Horizon Dr, Grand Junction, CO
At CoHH, we are a mixed bag of food preferences. Maybe you can relate? Some like meat while others are all about the veggies. Octopus Coffee meets all those needs with great brewed coffee, a myriad of milks to throw in (oat, coconunet, almond, soy, regular) and an abundant breakfast menu.
Why the strange name? Do they serve octopus? Nope. The owner wanted it to stand out and it sure does. Get the I Love Bacon breakfast sandwich to fill you for a long day of hiking. Or, if you’re like some us, the vegan burrito in a cup does the trick!
Handlebar Crafted Burgers and Beer Taphouse
417 Monument Rd #1, Grand Junction, CO
Beers on tap? Check! Homemade sauce bar? Check! Customer created burgers? Check! Salads with options? Check.
Yep, they’ve got it going down at the Handlebar. With the menu printed on the back wall, make your own sandwich or get one already designed to perfection. Their sauce game is strong friends. Order fries and try them all. We loved the homemade garlic aioli.
The Taco Party
126 S 5th St, Grand Junction, CO
This trendy hipster place in downtown Grand Junction is an experience from the moment you walk in the door. The establishment creates a rotating menu of custom tacos ranging from vegan specials like the cauliflower spicy pepper taco to their 15+hour barbacoa.
The guac and homemade chips is truly a unique delight! Popped amaranth grain with fresh sliced chilis takes it from elementary to college level pretty quick. While a bit pricey, we think each taco is worth the money!
Gelato Junction
2511, 449 Main St, Grand Junction, CO
You know we can’t leave a town without at least one ice cream recommendation! Gelato Junction is the perfect ending to any day in this old west city.
With a multitude of ice cream and gelato flavors, even vegan options, there is a cold treat for anyone! We loved the double chocolate vegan flavor; creamy from the first bite. The triple chocolate brownie was a culinary delight.
Where to Stay in Grand Junction
VACATION HOMES IN Grand Junction
Looking for the comforts of home? Reserve a vacation home for your crew in and around Grand Junction.
Or consider camping with a twist. Rent an RV near the Western Slope and glamp with Colorado’s grand mesa in your view!
Don’t want to drive a big RV? Have your RV set up at your destination. We love all the options with Outdoorsy, the AirBnB of RV rentals.
SAVE $50 OFF YOUR NEXT OUTDOORSY RV RENTAL
Use our exclusive promo code “COHH50” and save $50 OFF your next RV rental.
Fruita and Palisade Hops
For those unfamiliar with the Western Slope’s claim to fame, Palisade peaches and wine, we need to get you on the right path ASAP.
Trust us when we say from around end of July to beginning of September, you’ll want to know the best places and prices for those peaches, liquors and bottles of wine.
All of Colorado goes into hyper mode, ordering and buying as many Palisade peaches as they can. The vineyards, 20 or so, are available year round. However, summer months mean live music, samplings and winery visits.
Palisade Peach Shack
451 Wine Valley Road, Palisade, CO
Located a few minutes drive off I 70W, this is the perfect stop as you enter Palisade. Decorated with old farm charm, they have the best peach mini pies and jars of canned preserves.
The best part, in our opinion, is the soft churned peach ice cream. Not too sweet and loaded with pieces of fresh peaches, this is one of the most refreshing treats this side of Colorado.
Okagawa Farm Stand
281 29 Rd, Grand Junction, CO
This locally owned quaint farmer’s market houses produce grown on the Western Slope. Boxes of fresh gown tomatoes (yum!) and peaches are some of the best priced items in town.
The only downside to Okagawa Farm is finding it - Google maps can lead you astray.
Directions CoHH version: Plug in the address on google maps and follow it until Unaweep road. Take a right onto Unaweep road. Continue until Fall Creek turning right. Left onto Snyder Creek Drive and a right onto Arrasta Ct. You’ll see signs on the right taking you to the farm location. You’ll snake through a neighborhood - yep, you’re going the right way.
While your there, grab a bottle of Pear Blossom’s famous locally made jalapeno hot sauce. Rich with flavor and the perfect amount of heat, this hot sauce will be your favorite!
Note! Hours posted online are not accurate.
Correct Opening Hours: Sunday 10-4, Monday-Saturday 9-5
Palisade Vineyards and Wineries
With over 20 wineries in this area, there are an abundance of amazing wines to drink.
Keep in mind that in fall and winter months, many of the tasting rooms are closed or have extremely limited hours. It’s best to call as the websites, we found, are not always updated.
Mason La Belle Vie
3575 G Rd, Palisade, CO 81526
Wineries and tasting rooms always have an air of romance about this. Mason La Belle Vie’s location is no exception. A beautiful outdoor patio decorated with twinkling white lights and fire pits creates the perfect date. We loved the four glass wine flights paired with a simple yet tasty cheese board.
For more options and reviews, Two Roaming Souls has a comprehensive review of their favorite wineries in Palisade.
We love exploring Colorado’s Western Slope.
The drive to western Colorado is stunning with rich canyon views and looming mountains. There are some pretty stellar spots along the route to make a true memorable road trip.
Colorado National Monument, Mesa Verde National Park and Black Canyon of Gunnison are all within a few hours of Grand Junction. Check out more details and hikes at Colorado’s Four National Parks
Make a stop at Glenwood Springs Geothermal Hot Springs. At just under $30/day this is a great way to unwind after some great hikes!
Let us know your favorite hikes and hops in this area in a comment below.
