Welcome to our Grand Junction Relocation Guide! Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or planning a move, here you’ll find everything you need to know about life on Colorado’s Western Slope. From local neighborhoods and schools to dining, outdoor recreation, and community events, this category is your guide to making the most of Grand Junction — whether you’re visiting, relocating, or simply curious about what makes this city special. Live your vacation in Grand Junction!

Summer Weather in Grand Junction

The summer weather in Grand Junction can get hot, but not too hot!

I wrote a post called Grand Junction Weather that summarizes the seasons we experience. It outlines the varying temperatures in the Grand Valley (which includes Fruita, Grand Junction and Palisade). I also wrote one called Winter Weather in Grand Junction. Now it’s time to give you some insight on summer weather in Grand Junction.

Before we came to Grand Junction the first time, we didn’t even know Colorado had high desert. We thought it was all about that great “Rocky Mountain high” that John Denver sang about. (You can connect with nature in the John Denver Sanctuary in downtown Aspen, CO. Cool place!)

How Does Summer Weather in Grand Junction Compare to Other Cities?

If you live in Phoenix, it’s hot. Temps well over 100°F during the long summer, sometimes 115°F or higher! Phoenix is significantly warmer with temperatures rarely dropping below 80°. Summer weather in Grand Junction is hot, but it’s not too hot. Because of the lack of humidity 95°F feels like 88°F to us. It’s not so hot that you want to stay indoors all day during the summer. And we don’t get dust storms or monsoons like Phoenix, AZ.

What about Texas? Texas is hot too. Austin, has a humid subtropical climate with long, hot summers, and mild winters. Texas gets a lot more rain than we do. Severe thunderstorms and flooding occur. A temp like 95° in Austin, TX feels like 106° because of the humidity. Florida and the southeast in general are similar, with lots of humidity.

How about St. Louis? Summers are also hot, with highs in the lower 90’s, but the humidity makes it feel even hotter (heat index values can reach up to 102°F). And the Midwest gets tornados. We don’t get a lot of severe weather here. The risk of a tornado in Grand Junction is much lower than in the rest of the state of Colorado and elsewhere. I had to research to see if there ever has been a tornado here. I found an article written in 2023 that said there have been a total of 10 tornados in Mesa County. That’s very, very low!

No hurricanes or extremely volatile storms. I rarely hear thunder or see lightening. We do get some wind, occasional hail, and we need to be mindful about fire restrictions during the summer to avoid forest fires.

It’s a Dry Heat

Peach Street Distillers Corn Dip and Chips and Drinks

Peach Street Distillers Corn Dip and Margaritas

I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase “but it’s a dry heat” from those of us who live in a high desert environment. I understood what people were saying before we visited but I didn’t really appreciate it until we spent more time in Grand Junction and western Colorado. We would do an activity outside during the summer and I wondered why I wasn’t sweating. I was, it was just evaporating so quickly that I didn’t notice. That’s why everyone here says to drink plenty of water. You don’t realize you are losing water because you don’t get sweaty just walking around like you do in more humid environments.

Because the summer temperatures are comfortable, we like to dine outside whenever possible. Many of the local establishments have outdoor patios or rooftop decks. Some are in the sun while others offer shade. Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade are all very dog friendly. You’ll often see water bowls for dogs along the sidewalk and on restaurant patios.

If you feel warm, try some outdoor water activities like floating down the Colorado River, boating at Highline Lake State Park, or fishing up on the Mesa.

Overnight Temps Drop

Because Grand Junction is in the desert, it cools off at night. For example, in August it might get to 95°F during the day but that’s from about 2pm to 5pm. In the morning, we start out in the 70’s between 7am to 9am. A great time to have your morning tea or coffee outdoors. And after the sun sets our overnight lows are in the 60’s. We often sit outside after dark comfortably. We don’t wake up and say it’s hot right away, because it’s not. Mornings and evenings are very different than midday because we are in the desert. And if you are in the shade vs the sun makes a big difference too. We really do enjoy the summer weather in Grand Junction, day and night.

Bugs, what bugs?

Island Lake on the Grand Mesa taken near the boat launch and campgrounds

If you live in the Midwest, when you read the line above about us sitting outside comfortably after dark you probably laughed, right? You thought the mosquitos would carry us away! We don’t really have mosquitoes in Grand Junction. Maybe there are some by the Colorado River or other small creeks and streams. But in general, we don’t see them. Now, if you go up on the Grand Mesa, they have mosquitoes there because they also have 300+ lakes in the forest. That’s 45 minutes southeast of us. So we do bring our bug spray when we go up there during the summer until about mid-September. After the first frost, no bugs up there either.

My point is, if you are searching for a new place to live, keep reading about Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and Mesa County here on the western slope of Colorado. Consider moving to Colorado.

If you want a mild climate and all four seasons, move to Grand Junction. If you want to downhill ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon, move to Grand Junction. If you want to sell your snow shovel and snow blower and be done with icy conditions, move to Grand Junction. If you want to experience around 300 days of sunshine per year, move to Grand Junction. If you want to live in a place that offers outdoor activities and recreation year round, you guessed it, move to Grand Junction! And that goes for Fruita and Palisade too!

Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients. If you are 50+ you might also like my post called Retire in Grand Junction: Your grandkids and kids will thank you, and my post about not waiting, semi-retire in Grand Junction. We will welcome you with open arms.

Ready to look for homes in Grand Junction, Palisade or Fruita, here’s how you get started!

Coming for a Visit? Let me give you a tour!

Michelle and Paul Aspelin at Peach Street Distillery in Palisade, CO

Dining outside at Peach Street Distillers in Palisade, CO

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving clients since 2001

Grand Junction Real Estate Expert
Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Living in Durango CO vs Grand Junction

I’ve had several people call that are comparing living in Durango CO vs Grand Junction when they are researching moving to Colorado. Both Grand Junction and Durango, Colorado, offer appealing lifestyles in our very scenic western Colorado, but they cater to slightly different preferences. And when you are moving, I understand you want the scoop in comparing the two cities before buying a house in Colorado.

Here’s my comparison across lifestyle, housing costs, outdoor activities, retirement appeal, and access to mountain biking, an airport and healthcare. Let me know what specific questions you have. Call/text me anytime 612-306-9558.

If you have a topic you’d like me to write about, send me an email.

Get notifications about new posts and watch my short videos on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

Housing Costs

Grand Junction:
- Generally GJ is more affordable than Durango which is great for budget-conscious buyers and retirees and the general population.
- Median home prices (as of late 2024) hover around $375K–$425K.
- More housing inventory, including 55+ communities and urban or suburban developments. I have relationships with several local home builders and insight into new communities that are being developed, like Redlands 360.
- Lower property taxes compared to many Colorado resort towns. Read my post about Property Tax incentives for seniors in Grand Junction.
Durango:
- More expensive, with median home prices often $500K–$600K+, driven by the fact that it’s considered a resort town.
- Limited space for expansion keeps housing inventory tight.
- Attracts wealthier second-home owners, which can inflate prices.

Outdoor Activities

Grand Junction:
- A beautiful gateway to the Colorado National Monument, the Grand Mesa, and the Book Cliffs (mountains surrounding the Grand Valley).
- Year-round golfing, biking, hiking, walking, river rafting and floating, plus quick access to world-class desert and alpine trails.
- The Grand Mesa offers fishing, camping, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling and plenty of resorts and rustic cabins and an alpine forest just 45 minutes away.
- Nearby Palisade wine country offers a quaint downtown, wine tours and fantastic farmers markets in summer.
- Fruita is just 10 minutes away and offers an abundance of trails for mountain biking, hiking and trail riding on your horse or ATV. (McInnis Canyons Conservation area is spectacular!)
- Close to Utah’s red rock country and more mountain biking, hiking and jeeping in Moab, just 90 minutes away. Read my Top Day Trips post.
- Grand Junction is a place where desert-meets-mountain. It’s about 4 hours to Denver or Salt Lake City, UT.
Animas River Durango area

Durango:
- Surrounded by the stunning San Juan Mountains—excellent for hiking, backpacking, and skiing.
- Purgatory Resort offers accessible skiing and snowboarding.
- More snow-based recreation, excellent for winter sports lovers.
- Summer activities like white water rafting, tubing, and kayaking on the Animas River.
- Home to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a scenic tourist ride!
- The closest major city to Durango, Colorado is Albuquerque, New Mexico, about a 3.5-hour drive south.

Lifestyle & Community

Grand Junction:
- Larger population (~65,000), with more healthcare options and shopping (REI, department stores and mall, Target, and three hospitals).
- A bit more urbanized, more infrastructure and services with a growing arts and food scene.
- Conservative-leaning politically, though varied across age groups.
- Less of a tourist hub, so a steadier year-round pace.
- Colorado Mesa University with ~10,000 students and community education classes for the community.
Durango:
- Smaller (~20,000), more intimate, and community oriented.
- More outdoorsy and liberal-leaning culture.
- Strong college-town vibe (Fort Lewis College up on the hill), with seasonal tourists.
- Tight-knit feel due to much lower population, with more second-home owners and seasonal residents.

Retirement Appeal

Grand Junction:
- Popular with those working and retirees due to affordable living, dry climate, and medical facilities (see healthcare below).
- More age-friendly services and communities (see Why Retire in GJ post that includes info about CMU courses for retirees at a reduced rate).
- Milder winters than Durango – less snow, more sun.
Durango:
- Beautiful place to live and retire if your budget allows living in a resort mountain town.
- Winters can be harsh for those not acclimated to snow and altitude (~6,500 ft).
- Higher cost of living can be a barrier.

Walkability

Grand Junction:
- The downtown core (beautiful pedestrian-friendly Main Street area) is walkable with restaurants, breweries, galleries, theater, and a variety of shops.
- Outside downtown, it’s more car-dependent, especially in North Grand Junction and newer developments along the outskirts.
- Mixed-use neighborhoods are growing.
- Public transit is available and bike lane/trail connections are numerous.
Durango:
- More walkable, especially in the historic downtown area.
- Strong pedestrian and bike culture with trails that connect many parts of the city.
- Smaller footprint makes walking feasible for more daily activities.

Mountain Biking Access

Grand Junction:
- One of the top desert mountain biking destinations in the country.
- Lunch Loops, Kokopelli Trail (Fruita to Moab, UT), and 18 Road in North Fruita are world-famous and very close. Plus, let’s not forget all the trails in McInnis Canyons Conservation Area and the newer Palisade Plunge from the top of the Grand Mesa!
- Trails range from beginner to technical desert singletrack.
- Easily accessible from town—many riders pedal to the trailheads from home in certain neighborhoods. Read my guest post from a local mountain biker.
- Year-round access and variety in the Grand Valley, some go up to the Mesa during the warmer summer months for a cooler climate for riding.
Durango:
- Also excellent, especially for alpine terrain lovers.
- Horse Gulch, Telegraph Trail System, and Colorado Trail are directly accessible from town.
- Terrain is steeper and more forested than Grand Junction.
- More high-altitude riding, which limits accessibility during snowy months.
- Biking is best in summer/fall months.

Airport Access

Sign near the GJT airport

Grand Junction:
- Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) is just 10–15 minutes from downtown GJ, Fruita or Palisade.
- Offers direct flights to Denver, Phoenix, Dallas, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles (Orange County) and San Francisco.
- Small but efficient regional airport—very convenient and reliable. Read about our GJT Airport Experience – no waiting at the curb!
Durango:
- Durango–La Plata County Airport (DRO) is about 20 minutes from downtown.
- Also offers direct flights to major hubs like Denver, Dallas, Phoenix, and seasonal options.
- Slightly fewer flights and destinations than GJT, but still good. Snow may cause delays.

Healthcare Access

Grand Junction:
- Known for strong healthcare infrastructure for our size.
- Home to Family Health West in Fruita, Community Hospital, renowned St. Mary’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center (Level II trauma center) that serves communities within 2 hours of the Grand Valley, plus the Grand Junction VA Medical Center.
- Broad network of specialists and clinics—highly rated.
- The best healthcare hub between Denver and Salt Lake.
Durango:
- Primary provider is Mercy Regional Medical Center, a quality full-service hospital.
- Fewer specialist options locally, so more complex care may require travel to Grand Junction or Albuquerque, NM (3.5 hours away).
- Good for routine and emergency care, but limited depth in specialties.

Grand Junction vs Durango Comparison Chart

Factor	Grand Junction	Durango
Housing Costs	✅ More affordable, more inventory	❌ Higher real estate prices
Outdoor Activities	✅ Desert & alpine variety	✅ Mountain & snow-based fun
Lifestyle	✅ More urban conveniences	✅ Quaint, outdoorsy vibe
Retirement Appeal	✅ Budget-friendly, mild	❌ Costly but scenic
Walkability	✅ Very walkable downtown, bike lanes available	✅ Very walkable, compact downtown
Mountain Biking Access	✅ Year-round, world-class desert trails	✅ High-alpine trails, seasonal access
Airport Proximity	✅ More direct flights, easy access (GJT)	✅ Good airport, slightly fewer flights (DRO)
Healthcare Access	✅ Strong hospital system & specialists	❌ Fewer specialists, limited complex care

Final Thoughts

Choose Grand Junction vs living in Durango CO if you value overall affordability, accessibility to national parks, more housing options, year-round riding/golfing, and all the typical suburban amenities and small-town charm. I compared just a few topics. There’s more to learn about living in Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade, so keep reading!

The last time I was in Durango I noticed a lot of trucks, SUVs, campers and trailers going down the main road. Hardly anyone drives a sedan in Durango. I guess with more snowfall, everyone wants 4×4 or at least all-wheel drive, LOL!

Grand Junction is ideal if you are working in person or remotely, retired, semi-retired or consider yourself an active adult who wants a variety of terrain and opportunities with strong medical support. You want a place your friends, children, and grandchildren want to come visit because there’s so much to do! Read my post that explains how important this can be.

At Molas Pass just north of Durango

Call/text me at 612-306-9558 if you are coming into town and want to connect with me. I’d be happy to show you around Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade to help you compare the Grand Valley to Durango, or buying a house in Colorado communities you may be considering.

Experience the Grand Junction Lifestyle!

PAUL ASPELIN, your Grand Junction Real Estate Expert
REALTOR®, GRI, SRES®, CNE
Connect with me on LinkedIn
Licensed in Colorado – Serving Mesa County
Learn more about how I work with my clients

Live Your Vacation Every Day… Move to Grand Junction!

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Grand Junction

Moving to the Redlands | Grand Junction

Moving to the Redlands area of Grand Junction

I have out-of-state clients who are considering moving to the Redlands area of Grand Junction. So, I shared with them the many attributes about this region of Grand Junction. The way I see it, I figure more people moving to Grand Junction, Colorado might be interested in learning what I shared after listening to my clients list of “must-haves”.

When I have clients coming to Grand Junction from out of town, I like to meet in person and give them a tour. We usually only have a couple of hours because they are busy scouting out everything this fantastic community has to offer.

I tailor each tour to their interests, where they might be working, and which communities might make the most sense to buy a house. In my most recent client tour, we went to several locations, and I explained different features and benefits. We drove through the Monument, and he was mesmerized. We looked down on the Redlands from above and it made a strong impression. The views are spectacular!

Why not live at the base of the Monument? Moving to the Redlands area of Grand Junction seemed like the perfect fit, and for good reason, here’s why.

#1 Bike to Work

Downtown Grand Junction Sculpture

My client wanted to bike to work in downtown Grand Junction. No problem. Grand Junction is a bikeable community. There are trails that run along S. Camp Road and you can cross the Colorado River on Redlands Parkway or Broadway (Hwy 340).

#2 Access Bike Trails from Home

Check. There are numerous trails that run through neighborhoods, along roads and into the Colorado National Monument. Plus, quick access to the very popular, vast network of trails in the Lunch Loops. And, continuing along Broadway can get you into the trails in Fruita in the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area and the Kokopelli Trail. More on Biking in Grand Junction.

#3 A Place with a View

Of course! You can’t help but get exceptional views from every window in your home when you live in the Redlands. Yes, there are many other neighborhoods in the Grand Valley with views, but there’s just something about being snugged up to the base of the Monument that can’t be beat. The sun sets just a little earlier, offering cooler temps earlier in the evening in the hot summer months.

After our tour, his heart was set on moving to the Redlands area in Grand Junction. Here are some more reasons to consider moving to the Redlands.

Looking for a golf course community

Redlands Mesa Golf Course as viewed from Redlands 360 neighborhood.

Even if you don’t golf, some people like living in a golf course community. Going to the Club House to meet friends for lunch, planned events, and comradery. There are two courses in this area, Redlands Mesa Golf Course and Tiara Rado, a public golf course. If you are a golfer, be sure to check out my post that showcases all of the golf courses in the area. And I know I’ve said this before, but it’s worth mentioning, people golf year-round in Grand Junction, even during ski season!

Build a New Custom Home

I represented new construction buyers in the Redlands 360 Easter Hill neighborhood.

Starting on the east side near Monument Road and S. Camp Road, there are many defined neighborhoods with homesites available to build your custom home. As you move west along Broadway, the area gets a bit more rural with larger lots and more space to spread out. The Soaring Eagle neighborhood stands out here with a unique community space for neighborhood residents.

I will help guide you through the ins and outs of building a home here, specifically about the soil conditions and foundation building systems required. I mention this in my article called the Cons of Living in Grand Junction. How the lot price may not be really be the lot price.

I also have a post about how I helped clients build a new home in the Easter Hill neighborhood in the new Redlands 360 planned community. A very cool concept that will be under development for several years with spectacular views from this higher elevation within the Redlands.

Home Prices in the Redlands

As with the entire Grand Valley, homes come in all shapes and sizes, built in the early 1900’s to today. The Redlands Community Center, originally the Redlands Country Club, is a significant historical structure, dating back to 1921, and is listed on the Colorado Historical Society Register. So, yes, there are older homes in this area as well as pockets in the Redlands with homes built during the 60’s and 70’s with a certain style that appeals to many people.

Most likely, you will pay a premium to live in the Redlands area of Grand Junction. Whether you buy an existing home or build from scratch, this high-demand area can be more expensive, but oh so worth it!

There’s more to know about moving to the Redlands area in Grand Junction, so call me if you want to talk. And no, it’s not its own city, just an area, like North Grand Junction is just an area too. Fruita and Palisade are independent cities from Grand Junction.

And if you aren’t sure where you want to live exactly, read my post about Just Getting Here where I outline what it’s like to move to another state, I get it!

Call or Text me at 612-306-9558

Move to Grand Junction… We’ve been waiting for you!

moving to the Redlands area in Grand Junction means you can walk this Monument Trail anytime, from your doorstep!

Hiking Monument Canyon trail

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Grand Junction Real Estate Expert

Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Fruita, Grand Junction, Local or Nearby Attractions

More Than Redlands Mesa Golf Course in Grand Junction CO

More than the Redlands Mesa Golf Course in Grand Junction CO

I know that “Redlands Mesa Golf Course” is the second most popular search term on the Internet for golf courses in Grand Junction CO. But there are several more that deserve exploration and a tee time reservation.

Redlands Mesa Golf Course

Redlands Mesa Golf Course photo taken from above on a trail from Redlands 360 neighborhood

While it’s commonly called Redlands Mesa Golf Course its official name is the Golf Club at Redlands Mesa. Either way, it was voted the #1 Golf Course in Colorado by several sources. It’s located in the area commonly known as “the Redlands” by the locals. You can read my post about the Redlands community that sits at the base of the Colorado National Monument and offers the new Redlands 360 planned community development. Mesa County Residents (with ID) will receive a 30% Discount on greens fee rates!

Course description from their website…

“Perhaps Golf Digest sums up the course best, ‘Positioned beneath the slopes of jagged buttes south of Grand Junction, Colorado, in the shadow of the towering pink and red sandstone face of the Colorado National Monument, Redlands Mesa is like playing golf along the bottom of the Grand Canyon, with a couple of sojourns to the Garden of the Gods thrown in.’ The Golf Club at Redlands Mesa is a spectacular course that occasionally overwhelms the senses in its grandeur. Over one-third of our 500 acres is part of our sprawling, world-class golf course. You’ll discover stunning, dramatic vistas throughout, as well as 11 elevated tees and 37 bunkers. Our unique hole shaping ensures challenges for all skill levels on this championship-grade course.”

Even if you don’t golf, from experience I recommend you go to the club house Ocotillo Restaurant + Bar that’s perched over the course for a delicious iced tea, lemonade, cocktail or ice cold brew. The views are outstanding as well as the food. Schedule a meetup there just for fun! Of course, the course is top-notch as well. Watch for golf carts as you drive through this beautiful golf community. Golfweek and USA Today readers voted Redlands Mesa as the BEST Golf Course in Colorado! World-class golf that’s scenic, fun, and challenging. They offer clinics and lessons, multiple leagues, tournaments and offer a great venue for weddings and parties of all kinds. You can learn about membership, rates, book a tee time and more on their website https://redlandsmesa.com.

Tiara Rado Golf Course

The city of Grand Junction operates two local golf courses, 18-hole Tiara Rado and the 9-hole Lincoln Park Golf Course. Tiara Rado is in the Redlands area as well, right at the base of the Monument.

“The Tiara Rado golf course is challenging for golfers at all levels, with four tee locations, numerous water hazards, and a short but naughty moat hole. It has an 18-acre practice area, golf cars, pull carts, lessons, rental clubs, and a full-service pro shop. Tee times may be made seven days in advance by calling (970) 254-3830.”

Visit this joint website to book a tee time and learn more about both city golf courses.

Lincoln Park Golf Course

The most searched for golf course in Grand Junction is the Lincoln Park Golf Course just off North Ave. near the Grand Junction VA Medical Center and Stocker Stadium. This city golf course location offers a wonderful walkable 9-hole course to test your golf skills, with smooth-rolling, subtle breaking greens. Lincoln Park Golf Course has six sets of tees. They have a full-service pro shop as well as a snack bar. Lincoln Park also offers golf carts and pull carts for rent. Appointments are available for PGA Professional lessons. You can book your tee time online at the website above. Carts may not be allowed during winter months.

Chipeta Golf Course

The Chipeta Golf Course encourages golfers to “enjoy golf again.” On their website they describe it as “an 18-hole, executive course (par 59) with picturesque views of the Grand Mesa, Bookcliffs, Uncompahgre Plateau and the Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction, Colorado.” It’s a well-maintained course that welcomes golfers of all skill levels. They have leagues and lots of golf events throughout the year. They have season passes and a rewards program. You can book a lesson and your tee time on their website https://www.chipetagolf.com.

Bookcliff Country Club

Yes, there is a Grand Junction golf country club, Bookcliff Country Club, a country club with casual character. And where “Bookcliff” is spelled as one word, unlike the series of desert mountains and cliffs that make up the mountain range itself, that name appears as two words, Book Cliffs, on official maps. Strange, I know. But not as strange as our fractional street names, don’t get me started on that!

Bookcliff Country Club is the only full-service private club on the Western Slope. They provide outstanding facilities, programs, services and family-oriented activities of a typical country club. You can golf, play pickleball or tennis, workout in the fitness center and then relax in the spa or swimming complex before you enjoy a meal on one of their clubhouse decks.

“Bookcliff Country Club offers an 18-hole championship, par 71 golf course, originally designed by Henry Hughes, that wanders through a parkland setting with beautiful views of Western Slope’s Bookcliff Mountain Range and Colorado’s largest flat top mountain, The Mesa; also home to our closest ski resort. Thanks to our multiple neighboring mountain ranges the Grand Valley and Bookcliff Country Club are blessed with a minimal annual snow fall and on average we can offer golf amenities year round.” Woohoo, golf year-round!

The average play time for a round of 18 holes for a foursome is around 3.5 to 4 hours. Pull and electric golf carts are available for rent, but the use of a cart is not mandatory as the course’s parkland design appeals to the golfer who enjoys walking. The country club is near the Grand Junction Airport off Horizon Drive near G Road. Learn more about tournaments, leagues and membership on their website https://www.bookcliffcc.com/Home

Last, but certainly not least…

Adobe Creek National Golf Course in Fruita

Adobe Creek National is on 18 ½ Road near I-70 between Grand Junction and Fruita, technically in Fruita. Described on their website as “Three Nines set among breathtaking views! The Grand Valley’s only 27 Holes Golf Course with the Colorado National Monument in the backdrop.” They offer lessons, leagues, and events and “encourage you to enjoy the game of golf – with friends, over a beverage, with laughs and stories.” Adobe Creek National Golf Course offers year-round golf on three different nine-hole courses – The Mesa, The Monument, and The Desert.

Their website offers Daily Deals when you book your tee time online at https://www.adobecreekgolf.com. You can also join their Green Bucks Club to earn money back when you pay to golf. The course is a wonderful venue for weddings and all sorts of events and parties.

Adobe Creek National Golf Course specializes in creating fun golf outings of any size. They can create outing packages with various challenges like longest putt, longest drive, etc.

Golf in Palisade

No, I didn’t leave out Palisade. The closest regulation golf course to Palisade is the Chipeta Golf Course, it’s also near Orchard Mesa. If you want to golf in Palisade, you can try out the Riverbend Disc Golf Course located along the scenic Colorado River in Riverbend Park. Grand Junction has multiple disc golf courses to discover and enjoy.

Year-Round Golfing in Grand Junction

In case you haven’t heard the common phrase marketers use when describing the Grand Valley, it’s this… “You can ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon.” And I can tell you, that’s a true statement. Granted golfing in January can be chilly, but the strength of the sun here warms you as you hit the links on our mostly sunny days. Some area golf courses require you to walk during the months of December-February vs riding in a cart. I have a post about the Grand Junction weather with average monthly temperatures that you might also find interesting to read.

So, if you like to golf, or you have friends who might visit that like to golf, take your pick from these fine golf courses in Grand Junction and Fruita. The views and the experiences are spectacular. And if you’d like to live in a golf course community like the Redlands or others, let me know and I can set up a search of MLS listings in that area that meets your criteria. I focus on Grand Junction Real Estate as well as properties in Fruita, Palisade, Loma, Mack, Orchard Mesa, and even on the Grand Mesa!

Why you might want to Retire in Grand Junction – Your Grandkids Will Thank You!

Move to Grand Junction, we are waiting for you!

Check out my custom license plate!

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Grand Junction, Local or Nearby Attractions

Grand Junction Train Station

When someone says Grand Junction Train Station, they could be talking about the Amtrak Train Station where you can hop on the California Zephyr line. Or they could be thinking about the Grand Junction Union Depot. The Union Station Depot was built in 1906 by the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad, just one year after Grand Junction became a town. First, I’ll share with you about the functionality of riding the train, then what’s happening at the historical depot in town.

This post about the Grand Junction Train Station and the Grand Junction Union Depot was a suggestion from some wonderful relocation clients I met from St. George, Utah. If you have an idea for a post, please send a text to 612-306-9558 or send me an email.

The Revival of Rail Travel from Grand Junction

Grand Junction Amtrak Train Station next to Pufferbelly Station Restaurant

In recent years, Grand Junction has seen a resurgence in train travel, thanks to the Amtrak California Zephyr line, which runs from Chicago to Emeryville (near San Francisco). The train stops at the Grand Junction Train Station, providing a reliable and scenic way to travel through our picturesque Rocky Mountains. The Grand Junction Amtrak Train Station is located right next to the scrumptious Pufferbelly Station Restaurant on 1^st Street near Pitkin Ave in Grand Junction. Convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and somewhat close to the Museum of the West on Ute Ave., a popular place to visit to learn about the history of this area, including mining and train travel.

You can board the California Zephyr in Grand Junction and head west to Salt Lake City, Reno, and ultimately San Francisco. The westbound train leaves once a day in the late afternoon. Heading east, you can explore destinations like Glenwood Springs, Winter Park, Denver, Omaha, and Chicago. The eastbound train leaves mid-morning. The train ride offers comfort, stunning views, and a more leisurely pace of travel compared to flying, making it an attractive option for residents and visitors alike. We have friends who took the train to Denver from Grand Junction and thought it was spectacular! Bring snacks if you don’t get a ticket with dining access. Visit the Amtrak California Zephyr website for the route map, dining options and train schedule.

Fruita and Palisade

Grand Junction serves as the main train hub for the region. Fruita and Palisade do not have their own active train depots. Historically, both towns were served by rail lines, but these depots are no longer in use for commercial passenger travel today. If you are in Palisade, you can see the train whizzing by at a rather fast clip. When we stayed in Fruita for a month, it was the train whistles that we heard frequently and remember fondly.

Fruita and Palisade are a short drive from Grand Junction, making the Grand Junction Train Station easily accessible for those looking to travel by rail. Both towns are known for their local charm, including Fruita’s outdoor recreation opportunities and Palisade’s renowned wineries and orchards. Visitors and residents in the Grand Valley can enjoy the convenience of the Grand Junction Train Station while also benefiting from the quiet, scenic beauty of smaller towns.

You can learn more about living in Fruita and Palisade on this website.

Tips for Traveling from Grand Junction by Train

Grand Junction Train Station lobby for Amtrak

Amtrak Train Station Lobby

Booking Tickets: Amtrak offers easy online booking for the California Zephyr. You should book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Onboard Dining: There are several options for food like traditional dining and café options. Check the Amtrak website for details.
Planning Your Journey: If you’re traveling to nearby cities like Denver or Salt Lake City, check the Amtrak schedule for stops and timings. It takes longer to travel by train than by car, so plan accordingly.
Enjoy the Scenery: The train ride from Grand Junction is famous for its incredible views, including the Rocky Mountains, lush valleys, and expansive deserts. You’ll want to capture the breathtaking landscapes as you travel leisurely to your final destination.
Local Transportation: The Grand Junction Train Station is centrally located near downtown, making it easy to access a Grand Valley Transit bus or rideshare services to get to and from the depot.

Grand Junction Union Depot and the building next to it that was used for offices now houses local businesses and a nonprofit.

Grand Junction Union Depot: A Historical Hub of the Western Slope under Renovation

GJ Union Depot window artwork during renovations

The Grand Junction Union Depot stands as a historic gem on the Western Slope. The station served as a key transportation hub for over a century, bringing the town much needed supplies in the early days. Not only is it an architectural landmark, but it has also played a pivotal role in connecting the region to the rest of the country through rail travel. Let’s not forget that some mining towns in Colorado were first served by rail before roads were built.

The Grand Junction Union Depot is a large, impressive brick structure with elegant arches and intricate detailing. I can only image what it will look like when it’s fully renovated. Even though it’s no longer a major rail terminal, the GJ Union Depot is important to our community because it reflects our rich history and Western heritage. When you drive by, you can see the numerous murals by local artists that are on the plywood covering the window openings.

To see some amazing photos of the interior and exterior of the building, and read about the full history, visit the GJ Union Depot website or their Facebook page. According to the website,

“After 85 years of continuous service as a passenger and freight depot, the Grand Junction Union Depot had fallen into disrepair. In 1991, Amtrak vacated the grand depot and moved next door. GJ Union Depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992 and was recognized as one of Colorado’s Most Endangered Places in 2010 by Colorado Preservation, Inc. In 2016, the station was purchased by real estate developer and Grand Junction native, Veronica Sanchez and her husband Dustin Anzures. An adaptive re-use project is currently in design and seeking tenants.”

Another source of information is the Friends of GJ Union Depot whose mission is to support the preservation and rehabilitation of the historic GJ Union Depot. AmeriCorps NCCC has sent 9 young adult volunteers to work on the renovation for a full year!

Why Choose Grand Junction for Your Next Home?

If you are considering moving to Grand Junction, it’s an ideal choice due to the rich history, outdoor lifestyle, and the added convenience of train travel. Whether you’re commuting for work, traveling for leisure, or just wanting to explore the beauty of the Western United States, the Grand Junction Train Station is a gateway to adventure and exploration. By car we are just 4 hours from Salt Lake City or Denver. The Grand Valley offers an affordable cost of living, access to healthcare, and proximity to incredible nature and outdoor recreation. To learn more, read my posts about Things to Do in Grand Junction and reasons to Live in Grand Junction.

By choosing Grand Junction, you’re not just investing in a home – you’re gaining access to a unique and historic way to travel and explore the region. And you can become a part of the volunteer network that’s restoring the Grand Junction Union Depot!

Connect with me on LinkedIn

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Grand Junction, Palisade, Fruita and all of Mesa County
Text/Call 612-306-9558

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Grand Junction, Relocating to Grand Junction, Retire in Grand Junction

Retire in Grand Junction – your grandkids and kids will thank you!

What is there to do in Grand Junction Colorado?

A retired couple contacted me from Arizona. They wanted to know “What is there to do in Grand Junction Colorado?” They retired to Scottsdale many years earlier. Their children and grandchildren visited them when they first moved there, then the visits waned. They added a swimming pool, which worked for a while. As the grandkids got older, a pool and sunshine were no longer enough. The grandkids complained “there’s nothing to do.” They realized it was time to move to a place where everyone wanted to come visit, any time of the year, not just during spring break.

They like wineries. A relative recommended they consider Palisade, Grand Junction or Fruita. And so, their research began. They reached out to me because they found this website!

Keeping and nurturing relationships during retirement is important. I get it. So is the desire to live in a mild climate surrounded by lots of amenities, healthcare, and outdoor activities. While Arizona is a beautiful state, the Scottsdale/Phoenix area is very crowded and extremely hot in the summer. Why not consider an alternate retirement community that has all four seasons and endless opportunities for fun and personal growth? Consider retiring in Grand Junction, Colorado! Or Palisade, Fruita, Clifton, Orchard Mesa, or other communities within Mesa County. Collectively known as the Grand Valley.

Read my post about the weather. I post short videos and announce new website posts on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction. So be sure to follow me on Facebook to stay informed.

I helped a retired Minnesota client sell her townhome in Minnesota and she moved to Arizona. She didn’t last long. Too hot, not enough to do. After a visit here, she wondered, “Is Grand Junction a good place to live?” She now lives on a hobby farm in Fruita! Her adult daughter moved here too, and her son and his wife come to visit a couple times a year.

Retire in Grand Junction

Paul Aspelin on the Riverfront Trail along the Colorado River

Why retire in the Grand Valley? We have access to downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, year-round golf, tennis, and pickle ball. We have incredible hiking trails, extensive gravel/mountain/road biking opportunities, river boating and rafting, fishing, hunting, ATV trails and camping. Lots of parks and walking trails, including a zipline over the Colorado River! We are known for our fruit orchards, wineries, distilleries, and breweries. And all this is “in town.” Check out my Two-Day Itinerary post and Things to do in Grand Junction: Easy Hikes.

There are so many easy day trips from Grand Junction to incredible eye candy, hot springs, arches, canyons, lakes, mountains, resorts, public lands, and of course, Dinosaurs! So many things to do together with family and friends as you age. If you want to retire to a community where your family and friends want to visit you year-round, then the Grand Valley is your answer! Grand Junction is a basecamp with access to so much more!

More Than Just Outdoor Activities

Not only is this a beautiful and bountiful area naturally, with a fantastic climate and no humidity, there are other benefits that make Grand Junction and the surrounding communities a great place to retire to. In my opinion, here are just a few:

Low cost of living (and visiting) area
Easy access thanks to Grand Junction airport and connections via Denver and other cities
Warm weather activities
Winter weather activities
Close to diverse terrain like high desert, mountains, rivers, and lakes
Colorado Mesa University classes for 65+ and you can entice the grandkids to enroll
Many things to do right in Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade
Check out my day trips from Grand Junction post for ideas on what’s nearby that your kids and grandchildren will enjoy
Colorado is more centralized in the US compared to the SE like Florida – allowing you to reach so much more that’s only a day’s drive away

Grand Junction Living and Hosting Visitors

Snowshoeing on the Grand Mesa

Find a retirement home that’s convenient and easy to get to and your friends and family will want to come to visit you all year round!

It’s how they perceive the location that determines if they come visit. Grand Junction always has something going on for all ages and abilities!

When you purchase a home here, try to get an extra bedroom or two for visitors. It will encourage them to visit if they know they can save money by not needing to pay for a hotel. Having them stay with you gives you more opportunities to connect and share time with them.

We’ve hosted friends and family several times since we moved here. Based on their desires, we never run out of things to do or show them. Some have no interest in hiking, and that’s ok. We help our visitors adjust to the elevation before we go even higher to places like the Grand Mesa, Ouray, or Telluride. Some of our visitors fly right into GJT airport while others choose to fly into Denver and drive up and over the mountains to reach us. If they need one, car rentals are super easy at the Grand Junction airport.

We make sure we give them a list of suggested items to pack or have extras on hand like stainless steel water bottles, hats, sunscreen, and vitamin C (for high elevation days).

As our friends and family come to visit and get to know the area better, we hope someday they too might choose to move to Grand Junction like we did!

Consider starting new traditions in your new location. Invite everyone to come to you for a holiday spent at a mountain resort or discovering our nearby national parks! Make new memories. The opportunities are truly endless in Mesa County and beyond!

If you are considering a move and would like a tour of the Grand Valley, give me a call. I have several articles on this website about retiring in Grand Junction and things to do in the area. Look around the site and consider me your Grand Junction retirement real estate expert!

Be sure to get your kids and grandkids a water bottle for their trip to Grand Junction. Read my post about which water bottles we have, why we chose them, and where to get them locally.

Live Your Vacation Everyday when you Move to Grand Junction!

Text/Call me at 612-306-9558

Contact me directly regarding non-MLS listings.

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Licensed in Colorado

Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my real estate experience and how I serve my clients

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Fruita, Grand Junction, Local or Nearby Attractions, Palisade, Relocating to Grand Junction

Accolades for the Grand Valley

Accolades for Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and the Grand Valley region of Mesa County, CO

We are lucky to live where there are many accolades for the Grand Valley, Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and Mesa County. There are so many articles to choose from that support this, but I narrowed it down to one accolade for each community and some for Mesa County. Here are a few highlights of our amazing community starting with the most recent recognition for Grand Junction, CO.

When you move to Grand Junction, it’s like living your vacation every day. Follow my page on Facebook for short videos and post updates. Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

Charming Grand Junction Downtown

Downtown Grand Junction springtime!

Grand Junction’s fabulous downtown is #8 on the 2024 “10 Best” list of Charming Downtowns from USA Today. Here’s what they had to say:

“These 10 places with charming main streets — nominated by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best in the U.S. — offer more than just a road; these streets are living history, have a vibrant culture, and serve as the hearts of their communities.”

We couldn’t agree more! We were very impressed with the wide and wandering sidewalks, beautiful landscape, multitude of sculptures and art as well as lively dining options, boutiques, summer Farmers Market and so much more. Downtown is easily accessible and a true gem in the Grand Valley.

Here’s how USA Today summarized downtown Grand Junction.

“Celebrated for its vibrant, no-franchise downtown, Main Street in Grand Junction, Colorado boasts trendy art galleries, farm-to-fork dining, and fashionable boutiques. As a dynamic community hub, Main Street fosters a sense of engagement, with the historic Avalon Theatre hosting various events and a variety of street festivals and markets taking place year-round. Visitors enjoy the park-like atmosphere and the unique open-air art gallery of bronze sculptures.”

Here’s the link to the full article. https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-main-street

I wrote a post about Grand Junction being #1 Best City to Move to in Colorado, so check that out too!

Fruita, CO Awarded the Colorado Downtown Excellence Award

Outdoor Dining Plaza in Fruita

What a great award! This plaza space is right near one of our favorite places to dine in Fruita, the Hot Tomato!

“On April 4, 2024, the City of Fruita was awarded the Colorado Downtown Excellence Award for Pop-Up Innovation by Downtown Colorado Inc. (DCI) for the Mulberry Plaza and gathering space. This award celebrates excellence in Colorado downtowns and commercial districts, and the City of Fruita is excited to receive this recognition on a state-wide scale. Downtown Colorado Inc. is a non-profit, membership association committed to building better communities by providing assistance to Colorado downtowns, commercial districts, main streets, rural communities, and town centers.” – City of Fruita

Palisade Sunday Farmers Market is a Winner

Can’t get enough peach pie – this time with strawberry rhubarb. Peach with cherry is delicious too!

Here’s another “10 Best” award from USA Today. This time it’s for the Best Farmers Market! Although Palisade’s quaint downtown is certainly worthy of praise too.

Palisade Sunday Farmers Market comes in at #7, and deservedly so. We can’t wait for the Farmers Market season in the Grand Valley and the market in Palisade is tops for several reasons! To find the best farmers markets, they asked a panel of experts for nominations. Then, their readers voted for their favorites over four weeks. Here’s what USA Today had to say…

“Palisade Sunday Farmers Market, sponsored by the town, is open from June to October. It features items from local artisans and crafters as well as local produce and wines. Be sure to check out the live music and spend some downtime on a shaded, comfortable bench nearby.”

While this sounds nice and all, it’s a bit too generic. I wonder if they have really been to Palisade Sunday Farmers Market because it’s about so much more than that. Food trucks, fresh coffee, baked goods while you shop. I’ve tasted wine and got a shot of bourbon at 10am. They don’t even mention the famous Palisade Peaches, a weekly purchase for us. You just gotta go in person. Such a lovely downtown to host the Farmers Market. And the local shops, restaurants and galleries are fantastic too!

Mesa County Libraries National Nomination

We love libraries! You can read our posts about Mesa County Libraries and how I got the Las Colonias Little Free Library in Grand Junction, near the Colorado River and Butterfly Pond.

Libraries do great work, and we are excited about this nomination. We will check back to see if they won! National Medal winners will be announced in late May 2024. Here’s what they posted on the Mesa County Libraries website:

“The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced on March 27, 2024, that Mesa County Libraries is among 30 finalists for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. Mesa County Libraries is the only institution in Colorado to be selected as a finalist for this award. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. For 30 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.”

What an amazing honor to be nominated! We are so proud of our local library system. Here’s the full post on the library’s website: https://mesacountylibraries.org/2024/03/mesa-county-libraries-named-finalist-for-2024-imls-national-medal-for-museum-and-library-service

Best Place to Visit for Adventure

https://www.visitgrandjunction.com/blog/post/the-36-best-places-to-visit-in-the-us-for-adventure

North Fruita Desert

Outside named Grand Junction as one of the “36 Best” places to visit in the US for adventure. Of course, we think it’s #1! The link above takes you to the full article. Here’s a quick summary.

“Grand Junction was honored to be mentioned as the base camp for one of Outside’s 2023 Travel Awards. The Colorado Plateau was awarded the “Public Land Winner” and Grand Junction was highlighted as the top destination for travelers hoping to explore this award-winning area. The Grand Junction area is surrounded by over 1.6 million acres of public land, so it’s no surprise that adventure travelers were encouraged to base their adventure out of Grand Junction.”

Follow the link and learn more about the whole Colorado Plateau area, it’s quite amazing. We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful and diverse area. The article even calls out one of our favorites, Camp Eddy, and of course, the Colorado National Monument. A favorite place for adventure right in our backyard!

Speaking of adventure…the Outdoor Program (OP) at Colorado Mesa University is one of the reasons our daughter chose to attend this fantastic university. They were at the college fair at her high school in Minnesota and we are forever grateful to have discovered this amazing human scale university, as they like to be called. So, I will end with this one amazing accolade for Colorado Mesa University, though there are many things to be proud of when it comes to CMU.

Colorado Mesa University

Zion CMU Outdoor Program Trip

U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges ranks colleges and universities by several different factors and creates many “best of” lists. They have ranked Colorado Mesa University #5 in Top Public Schools and #20 in Regional Colleges West. Their website describes in detail how their rankings are calculated, data sources, eligibility, and the criteria they used.

The article does a great job of highlighting CMU in a way that allows readers to easily compare colleges and universities on things like admissions, cost, academic programs, and campus life. Read More. It’s important to know what the student wants in a college.

CMU is an accredited university that has so much to be proud of. They have amazing academic programs for students of all ages. Their vision: “CMU aspires to be a Human Scale University that serves as a model of the world we want to create —a world where people aspire to love, extend dignity, choose courage, demonstrate humility, develop resiliency, celebrate curiosity, and use power for good.”

Zion Canyoneering CMU Outdoor Program Trip

Their Outdoor Program is outstanding. It’s a way for students to enjoy the weekends and time off outside the classroom. Students can participate in outdoor recreation, take group trips and rent equipment at super low rates. Our daughter climbed her first 14er in the first month of her freshman year! And a memorable group to Zion National Park to learn canyoneering. She has amazing stories and memories.

I encourage you to look at the CMU website first and absorb as much as you can. Then, you have to do a tour in person to fully grasp the welcoming culture at CMU. My daughter got to do an extended “CMU Experience” in 2018 before she decided for sure to attend. Although we knew her mind was made up before she attended this extended tour experience. She just wanted another trip to Colorado! We get it. We fell in love with the area too! That’s why we moved here. Let me give you a quick tour of the campus even if you don’t have students attending college. It’s an amazing asset for the Grand Valley!

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Mesa County
Licensed in Colorado

Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Grand Junction, Relocating to Grand Junction

Moving to Colorado? GJ Ranked #1 in Survey

Moving to Colorado?

I just love it when the media reconfirms our decision about moving to Colorado. We looked at several small towns in Colorado and Arizona, but just kept coming back to Grand Junction, CO. We discovered the Grand Valley when our daughter wanted to do a college visit to Colorado Mesa University in 2017.

I’ve seen Grand Junction in the media since our initial discovery. It has been making more and more “top lists” and “best of lists”. Below is a link to a USA Today Homefront article titled “Moving to Colorado?” that lists the 5 best cities, according to their 2024 survey. And low and behold, Grand Junction is #1 for best cities to move to in Colorado! Beating out #5 Longmont, #4 Ft. Collins, #3 Littleton and #2 Loveland. Now their criteria were cities with a population of 40,000 or more, so Palisade and Fruita didn’t qualify for this comparison.

I post short videos and announce new website posts on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

(Click photo to enlarge)

The Research

The research team at Homefront ranked 22 cities in Colorado across 16 different quality-of-life metrics. They considered livability factors like activities, walkability and quality of schools. They looked at life expectancy, health care and safety (crime and severe weather). And economic variables like housing affordability and unemployment rates.

They cited that more than 260,000 people moved to Colorado in 2022. And their research shows that Colorado ranked as more affordable than Texas, Florida and California. I can understand California but was surprised about Texas and Florida.

What they say about Grand Junction

Here’s how they start the description of the best city in Colorado: “Grand Junction might just be Colorado’s best-kept secret. This city has incredibly diverse landscapes — mountains, rivers, canyons, deserts and forests — as well as affordable housing.” They went on to say:

“Grand Junction is the second-most affordable place for prospective home buyers and the third-most affordable for renters. Additionally, homeowners here enjoy the lowest annual homeowner’s insurance premium, likely thanks to the area’s tame weather.” Ahh, ok, that’s probably why we rank better than Florida. Their homeowner’s insurance rates keep climbing due to natural disasters. No hurricanes or tropical storms here, thank you!

“While Grand Junction has the second-lowest median income in our study, its lower cost of living balances the scale. It has the third-lowest percentage of rent-burdened residents and typical home values are six times the median income, which places Grand Junction above average compared with other Colorado cities we ranked.”

Yes, I’ve noticed the lower cost of living for sure. Colorado mountain towns are ultra expensive. Nice to visit, but hard to buy a home and work there.

Way to go Grand Junction for being one of the best cities in Colorado! You can read the full article about Grand Junction as well as the other cities in the top 5. Here’s the link about the article. Move to Colorado, we did!

Curious about our local weather? I have written 3 posts on the subject you might find useful. Summer weather, winter weather, and all the seasons and varying temps post called Grand Junction Weather.

Moving to Colorado!

Text/Call 612-306-9558

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients

Get Started!

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert

Fruita, Grand Junction, Relocating to Grand Junction

Living in Grand Junction Experiment

Guest Post by Michelle Aspelin

Before Paul and I made a decision, we wanted to do a Living in Grand Junction Experiment. We already had an idea of what living in Grand Junction might be like, but we wanted to really test it out first before we decided. Our daughter started attending college at Colorado Mesa University (CMU) in the fall of 2019. We had visited the area two times before we drove here from Minnesota to move her into her dorm room.

We visited her in October 2019 for Parents Weekend. After she had returned to class, we were sitting outside of the CMU library with our bagels and drinks from the café inside. It was a warm fall day with the sun warming us at our outdoor table. Paul said, “I could see us living here after we retire.” We were surprised at the thought as we were only in our late 40’s. With that thought in the back of our minds, we continued on with our life in Minnesota. Read our post about Tips for CMU parents.

Maybe Arizona?

In the fall of 2021, we drove our second daughter to Arizona to start her college experience. We realized that we didn’t need to hurry back to Minnesota after we got her settled. It was the start of being “empty nesters” for us. We made several stops in small towns on our way back to “check them out”. Might we live in Arizona? Visiting places like Sedona and Flagstaff were terrific. We didn’t realize Arizona had such a diverse environment. It’s not all hot desert in Arizona! We enjoyed the mountains too.

How about Southern Colorado?

On that same trip in 2021 we stopped in Grand Junction for a few days, giving it more consideration. When it was time to go, we drove south. Stopped in Delta, Montrose, Ridgway, and we were totally in awe of Ouray. Drove the Million Dollar Highway (whoa!) to Silverton. Stayed in Durango to give it some consideration. Then we continued east to Pagosa Springs and NE to Salida and through Denver. With each stop, pondering the question, “Could we live here?” Our online research continued. More visits to see our kids. And then we planned an experiment.

Living in Fruita Experiment

Parade of Lights in Fruita, CO

One year we drove to Moab, Utah for Thanksgiving with family and friends. We were there for several days and loved the experience. We went back again two years later but decided to extend the trip in order to do an experiment. Took the long way back from Moab via Gateway and on to Telluride, stunning mountain town. Took the free gondola up to see Mountain Village, magical! However, housing is ultra expensive! Then, we made it to Fruita, CO.

By this time, we had a better idea of what living in Grand Junction might be like, but what about Fruita? We rented a very cute 2BR/1BA home for 3 weeks, just a block off Aspen Avenue (the main street). We wanted to see what it would be like living in Fruita, Colorado. We shopped at the (very busy) grocery store. Found more great dining places. Experienced some downtown activities like the Parade of Lights in December. Went to the Visitor’s Center several times to learn more from the locals (always recommend this).

We drove into Grand Junction to see our daughter and visit more stores, dining and other places. During this trip we also drove on the other side of the Grand Mesa to consider Cedaredge and Paonia. We investigated Rifle and went to some of the wonderful parks there. Paul loved seeing them ice fishing in Rifle Gap State Park’s 350-acre reservoir!

During our Living in Fruita Experiment, we found we liked the charm of the small town of Fruita but kept driving to Grand Junction on a regular basis. They aren’t far apart, 15-20 minutes, depending on where you are going. But the experiment was useful. It helped us decide that we wanted to move to Grand Junction, not Fruita. If you have the opportunity, try an experiment like this in the city you might consider moving to. Act as if you already live there. See how it feels. We have fond memories of the train whistles as they passed through Fruita. Read our post about the Grand Junction Train Station to learn more about train travel to and from Grand Junction as well as the historic Grand Junction Union Depot.

Researching Grand Junction and Mesa County

We continued to read articles and do research online. I used the “Find Places to Live” feature on niche.com to compare cities on a dozen different categories like cost of living, schools, jobs, crime, health care, night life, etc. FYI, Grand Junction is ranked the #2 place to live in Mesa County. We researched income taxes, property taxes (so low in Mesa County!), sales tax, government and civic entities, nonprofits, local businesses, and community involvement. We joined Facebook groups, followed business Facebook pages and made connections on LinkedIn.

It was time for a lifestyle change. We were young-ish, we didn’t retire when we moved to the Grand Valley. We started connecting with business professionals in the community when we visited. Our Living in Grand Junction Experiment was like we were “dating” Grand Junction. I can do my job from anywhere, I make websites and work from home. Paul easily transitioned his real estate career from Minnesota to Colorado and is loving it!

The Living in Grand Junction Experiment

While our experiment of living in Fruita, CO was a concise 3 weeks, our Living in Grand Junction Experiment was longer and more drawn out. Visiting several times, learning more, experiencing more, researching more, asking “What if…” oh so many times. We were thankful for our experiments.

When we weren’t visiting Colorado, we were preparing our home for sale. Doing updates and minor repair work, donating or selling most of our items, and mentally preparing ourselves for the cross-country move. You can read more on this website, like Paul’s post, Living in Grand Junction – What I learned in the First Three Months. If you are considering moving to Grand Junction, check out Paul’s post called Why Move to Grand Junction? It includes sections on the various housing types as well as a description of the area.

Hopefully you will be inspired to do an experiment of your own! Paul would be happy to show you around Mesa County and answer any questions you have about moving to Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade or anywhere within Mesa County. Paul Aspelin 612-306-9558 or send him a note on the Contact page.

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

Paul posts short videos and we announce new website posts on our Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

Guest Post by Michelle Aspelin
growyourmindshare.com
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn

by Michelle Aspelin

Fruita, Grand Junction, Local or Nearby Attractions, Palisade

Two-Day Itinerary for Grand Junction Visit

Charm and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or someone seeking a laid-back weekend getaway, Grand Junction has it all. I’ve curated this itinerary for you based on my experiences. It’s for an unforgettable long weekend in the Grand Valley, exploring the cities of Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and more. Knowing what I know, this is how I would plan out the perfect weekend for first-time visitors coming to the Grand Valley.

Get updates about places we go and things to see when you follow my Facebook page: Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

Day 1: Arrival and Grand Valley Exploration

Accommodations

Your Grand Valley adventure begins with choosing the perfect place to stay. Whether you prefer a familiar chain hotel near the airport or downtown, a cozy Airbnb in Fruita, or a romantic bed and breakfast in Palisade, the Grand Valley welcomes you with diverse options. Each city offers its unique charm, and accessibility is never an issue. You can even stay in a tiny house or Airstream right on the Colorado River at Camp Eddy RV Park! Beautiful views and peaceful location.

Morning Energizer at Kiln Coffee or Sweet Coloradough

Start your first day with a visit to Kiln Coffee on Main Street, between 3^rd and 4^th street in downtown Grand Junction. Immerse yourself in the local vibe and savor a cup of expertly brewed coffee. If you’re a donut fan, Sweet Coloradough now has a location in Grand Junction on North Ave. between 12th and 14th Streets near the CMU campus. Try the croughnut, a cross between an 11 layer croissant and a doughnut. Oh, and at Sweet Colorado, you can get coffee, breakfast and lunch sandwiches too! They offer crazy boozy drinks at their Glenwood Springs location!

“Moon Rock” on The Ribbon Trail in Bangs Canyon. Overlooking Grand Junction and Palisade. You can see Mount Garfield in the distance, the Book Cliff Mountains

Hiking Adventure to “Moon Rock”

For an active start, hike just the beginning 15-20 minutes of the Ribbon Trail in Bangs Canyon Management Area to witness the panoramic views from what locals affectionately call “Moon Rock.” The short hike offers not only stunning vistas overlooking the city but also a glimpse of the valley’s diverse landscapes. It’s popular with mountain bikers. You won’t believe what you see as the trail opens. Don’t hike the full trail, it’s 7 miles and strenuous. To get there from Grand Junction, take Broadway over the Colorado River to Monument Road then D Road and a few more turns to the trailhead. See The Ribbon Trail trailhead for info and complete directions.

Palisade Sunday Farmers Market and Winery Trail

If you are here on a Sunday in the summer, head to downtown Palisade for the legendary Farmers Market. It is voted one of the top markets in the country. If it’s peach season (July/August), you’re in for a treat. Explore the downtown shops and consider renting a mountain bike for the Palisade Plunge if you are a risk taker. Alternatively, follow the Scenic Fruit & Wine Byway and indulge in the region’s emerging reputation as the next Napa Valley. Palisade and East Orchard Mesa offer 26+ wineries and the renowned Palisade peaches. Learn more by reading my post about Palisade. Palisade has many agritourism opportunities too. Visit the farms, orchards and vineyards for unique experiences.

Late Lunch in Downtown Grand Junction

Return to Grand Junction for a late lunch at Main Street Bagels. Order the peach smoothie when in season – a true local delight. Experience the charm of one of the cutest downtowns you’ll ever shop in. Afterward, head to Los Colonias Park for a zipline adventure, a stroll on the bridge over the Colorado River, and visit the Butterfly Pond.

Main Street Bagels Springtime

Rim Rock Drive at the Colorado National Monument

As the afternoon turns into evening, embark on a 23-mile adventure along Rim Rock Drive in the Colorado National Monument. You’ll need a National Parks pass or can purchase a day pass at the entrance. The drive is particularly enchanting just before dusk, with big horn sheep making an appearance near Fruita. Allow 90 minutes for the average visit to truly experience the monument, including short hikes at pull-offs like Grand View, Monument Canyon Overlook, and Cold Shivers Point. I recommend starting at the East Entrance in Grand Junction off Monument Drive, about 10 minutes out of town. Drive towards Fruita. The Visitor Center is in Fruita, near the West Entrance.

Two Day Itinerary for Grand Junction Visit includes the Colorado National Monument - East Entrance sign

Colorado National Monument East Entrance in Grand Junction, Colorado

Dinner in Quaint Fruita

Time your exit from Rim Rock Drive to coincide with dinner in Fruita. Fruita, CO is a charming town, often considered the mountain biking capital of the world. We discovered The Hot Tomato restaurant on one of our first trips to the area and highly recommend it! Legendary pizza, great calzones and salads and an impressive craft beer selection. Despite the likely wait, locals will tell you it’s well worth it. Outside dining available. Learn more about Fruita.

Day 2: Campus Stroll, Grand Mesa Exploration, and Evening Indulgence

Morning at Dream Cafe in Downtown Grand Junction

On your second day, bypass the hotel breakfast and head to Dream Cafe in downtown Grand Junction. If you’re lucky enough to secure an outdoor table, savor a delicious breakfast against the backdrop of the perfect Grand Valley mornings we are known for.

Self-Guided Tour of Colorado Mesa University

After breakfast, head down North Avenue to 12^th Street to the Colorado Mesa University (CMU) campus. Take a self-guided stroll through the breathtaking campus. The University buildings are unique, many with rooftop seating for study time or gatherings. The state-of-the-art Hamilton Rec Center is a good place to see. The Maverick Bookstore in the University Center is a great stop to shop and there’s dining options, a Starbucks and a student game room with a bar called The Point. Locals value having this institution at the heart of Grand Junction. You can stay at the Hotel Maverick and dine at Devil’s Kitchen located on the top floor that overlooks campus and provides incredible views of the Monument. Both offer opportunities for hospitality students studying at CMU.

Lunch Options

Lunch choices near CMU Campus include Kannah Creek Brewing Company or the Ale House.
For downtown Grand Junction options consider Trail Life Brewery, Rockslide Brewery, or Pour Fellows.

Grand Mesa Overlook near the Grand Mesa Visitor Center

The second pull-off, after Powderhorn Mountain Resort and before the Grand Mesa Visitor Center

Grand Mesa Adventure

Island Lake on the Grand Mesa taken near the boat launch and campgrounds

Next, hop on I-70 East to Exit 49 past Palisade to get on CO-65 and explore the Grand Mesa. “The Mesa” is the world’s largest flat-top mountain with 300+ lakes and beautiful forests. A stop at Powderhorn Mountain Resort offers spectacular views. In the warmer months mountain bikers utilize the chair lifts. If visiting in September/October, witness the breathtaking fall colors.

Plan on 3 hours of drive time if you do the loop that brings you thorough Cedaredge and Delta. If you don’t have that much time, you can drive to the Grand Mesa Visitor Center just past Powderhorn and turn around. That will make sure you get to one of the most breathtaking pull-offs. If you have more more time, drive to Island Lake, Grand Mesa Lodge, then turn around. (Note: Island Lake boat launch and campground will be closed 2025 and 2026 for repairs and upgrades)

Read my post about Living in Grand Junction – What I learned in the First Three Months. The Visitor Center isn’t always open, and it may not have toilet paper, so be prepared. Learned this from experience. You can also read my post about what it’s like to live on the Grand Mesa.

Cattlemen’s Bar and Grill in Loma

Wrap up your Grand Mesa adventure with a meal at Cattlemen’s Bar and Grill in Loma. Take I-70 West just past Fruita, it’s worth the drive! Voted Best of the West Steakhouse and Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant in 2021, this place offers hand-cut steaks, prime rib, hearty burgers, a large salad bar, warm rolls, and a well-stocked bar. The restaurant’s commitment to serving ranchers, cowboys, soldiers, and anyone with a healthy appetite ensures a satisfying end to your day. It’s delicious and reasonably priced. There are options besides steak, including vegetarian entrees. Ask me about another great bar and grill in Grand Junction CO!

Petroglyphs on “Wall Street” in Moab, Utah

Day Trips

If you’ve never seen dinosaur tracks out in the open, petroglyphs, or a quintessential mountain town, then please read my post Top Day Trips from Grand Junction. There’s a lot to do in the region surrounding Grand Junction. And if you are flying here, read my tips in the Grand Junction Airport experience post.

Visit and Play Like a Local

You will see a lot of language in tourism content about “leave no trace”. It means to respect the land and waterways, put all trash where it belongs, leave things the way you found them in nature, etc. In the Grand Valley, we also ask that you “play like a local” and help us keep our vast array of amenities clean and ready for the next person. Respect the local residents as well as the land and water when you travel through our beautiful Grand Valley. Care for Colorado Leave No Trace Principles

That’s a Wrap

Grand Junction is a destination that seamlessly blends natural wonders, historical charm, and outdoor adventures. The itinerary I laid out for you ensures you experience some of the best that the Grand Valley has to offer. Come with an open heart and leave with unforgettable memories of the Grand Valley’s unique charm and warmth. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a food enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, the Grand Valley has something for everyone. If you have more time to play, read my post about golf courses in Grand Junction.

Once you’ve fallen in love with the Grand Valley and it’s time to consider relocation, just give me a call. I would be happy to create a personal itinerary that includes touring homes and some other special sights if you are considering living in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade or anywhere in Mesa County.

Taken at Cold Shivers Point on the Colorado National Monument

Live Your Vacation Every Day When You Move to Grand Junction!

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Paul Aspelin, Realtor®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and all of Mesa County Colorado.

by Paul Aspelin, Relocation & Listing Expert