Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction and Fruita, Colorado

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Grand Junction Area Spotlight

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!
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There are lots of cool places in and around the Grand Junction area that I wanted to share. In this post I put the spotlight on a few of our favorite places or experiences, in no particular order. The main image on this post was taken on the Waterfowl Trail in the Connected Lakes State Park near downtown Grand Junction. I have a video about it on my Live Your Vacation Facebook Page.

Send me an email if you have any suggestions of places you think we should check out or you are curious about.

Parade of Lights (December)

Parade of Lights in Fruita CO - Xcel Energy truck covered in lights

Parade of Lights in Fruita

Our first Parade of Lights was officially in Fruita when we were staying there for 3 weeks during our Living in Grand Junction Experiment. It’s way too cold in Minnesota to attend a parade like this so it’s something we look forward to each December. Before the Grand Junction Parade of Lights starts, we head over to Mainstreet Bagels to get some authentic hot chocolate. Typically, we are joined by our daughter and son-in-law to enjoy the floats. It’s not too cold but you do want to wear a hat and gloves. Hot cocoa helps too!

Fruita Visitor Center

There is a Visitor Center in Grand Junction off Horizon Drive near the airport, but it’s just not as good as the Fruita Visitor Center. The GJ location went through a transition recently so they didn’t have as many brochures during that time. But the Fruita Visitor Center is always well stocked with information and volunteers to share their experiences. On one visit, we met a gentleman who lived just a couple of miles from where we grew up in Deephaven, MN. I sometimes stop in there to pick up guides, maps, and brochures for my visiting clients. I encourage you to go there yourself. We discover something new every time. They have information about all of Colorado, not just the Grand Junction area.

Colorado River Bridge

We often find ourselves visiting the bridge over the Colorado River in Las Colonias near Camp Eddy. We visit in the spring to see the rush of the winter snow melt. We go in the summer and fall to check on the water levels and watch the people float by. Sometimes we walk around the nearby Butterfly Pond. Michelle’s sister and brother-in-law stayed at Camp Eddy for 3 weeks in October. They loved being so close to the river and the Colorado Riverfront Trail. Read my post about the cons of living in the Grand Junction area where I mention the goat heads on the Riverfront Trail and how to avoid a flat tire on our bike.

Downtown Grand Junction

Realty ONE Group office on Colorado Ave in downtown Grand Junction

Realty ONE Group Western Slope office on Colorado Ave in Grand Junction

We enjoy walking downtown Grand Junction from end to end. We have many favorite shops and restaurants downtown and would be happy to meet you in any location downtown! Sometimes when we are running errands, we just drive through downtown to see what’s going on. We like the Sunday Farmers Market in Palisade the best, but we attend the Thursday evening Farmers Market in Grand Junction several times a year. Parking is easy, drive to Colorado Avenue, just a block off main street. We primarily park in the lot behind the Rockslide Brewery. The lot is free after 4pm and on weekends. Keep a couple of quarters in your vehicle in case you need to pay for parking. It’s very reasonable. My Realty One Group Western Slope Real Estate Office is on Colorado Avenue, and I frequently pay to park in the area. Let me know if you have question about the parking apps.

Mesa County Libraries

We are constantly researching the area and we read business and marketing books as a hobby. We’ve been to the Fruita, Grand Junction, Clifton, Orchard Mesa, and Palisade Libraries. Libraries are a great resource for the community. Read my post about Mesa County Libraries and the Friends of the Mesa County Libraries. I even started a Little Free Library in Las Colonias. We visit it often to make sure it’s still filled with books, and Michelle usually finds one for herself.

Colorado National Monument Favorite Stops

Paul Aspelin standing near the top of the Serpent’s Trail in the Monument

Take the Fruita (west) entrance into the Colorado National Monument. Just before the Visitor Center, turn left at the Saddlehorn Campground. At the “Y” in the road, veer left and follow the loop around to the parking spaces in front of the Book Cliffs View. Walk out about 50 feet for some incredible views. There are a few short trails nearby, one leads to the Visitor Center. It’s one of our favorite spots to bring guests and it’s typically not crowded.

Another favorite is Otto’s Trail. It gives visitors a chance to stretch their legs and get emersed in the canyons of the Monument. A stop at the top of Serpent’s Trail is another great spot but there are only 4 parking spaces so it’s not always available when you drive by. If you can stop, walk for about 50 yards down the trail and enjoy the view! Serpents Trail is the original road to get to the top of the Monument. It’s a great hike, but a lot of elevation gain. Watch for big horn sheep, mostly along the western side of Rimrock Drive through the Monument.

Palisade Sweet Spots

Clark’s Distillery at Sunset looking at Mt. Garfield

Outside of Grand Junction, we visit Palisade the most. We always enjoy the Sunday Farmers Market, and we have some favorite restaurants if you are looking for recommendations. One of our favorite spots is to sit outside in the Adirondack chairs at Clark’s Distillery and watch the sun set over the Colorado River. The setting sun makes the Book Cliffs glow. They have great food and a variety of beverages. Another spot to sit and soak up the view is at the Colterris Winery. The winery is at the far eastern edge of Palisade on N. River Road. You are at the base of the Book Cliffs and the Grand Mesa, peering into the De Beque Canyon. Most days there is a gentle breeze due to the micro-climate of this area. It’s very peaceful.

I’ve got a few more favorite spots. I usually mention them when I give clients a tour. If they are interested, I add them to the itinerary. Some are quick stops, overlooks, high points, special views, and unique features to point out. As a CMU alumni parent, we always enjoy pulling into the parking lot at the Outdoor Program building and watching the students walk about campus. You can get breakfast at the CMU Library building nearby. I have a post with some tips for CMU parents if your child is considering attending this fabulous Western Slope University.

Do you have a favorite spot in Grand Junction, Fruita, or Palisade? Send me an email and we will check it out!

Move to Grand Junction and Live Your Vacation Every Day!

Text/Call 612-306-9558 with your questions about living in Grand Junction.

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Learn more about me and how I serve my clients.
Serving Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and all of Mesa County.
Licensed in Colorado.

© 2025 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com. Copyright protected. All Rights Reserved.

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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. I shared with them the many attributes about this region of Grand Junction. 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

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

© 2025 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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Things to Do in Grand Junction CO: Easy Hikes

Guest post written by Michelle Aspelin

We could come up with a list of a hundred things to do in Grand Junction CO. Would a long list of ideas convince you to move to Grand Junction? Possibly. But we like to write about our own personal experiences while living in Grand Junction to provide you with a deeper perspective.

When the weekend comes, what do you want to do? I’ll share some of our favorite places. Of course, there are more things to do in Grand Junction CO, so read Paul’s posts for ideas. I put some links at the bottom of this post.

You can go on a scenic drive any day of the week for as long or short as you want. You can be warm in the valley yet ski up on the Grand Mesa. When exploring a new area, we love going for a short drive after dinner to see what we can discover.

I like to get books from the Mesa County Libraries or buy them from the Friends of the Mesa County Libraries book sales. A lot of what we do in Grand Junction is because I read about it in a book and wanted to see it in person.  I also follow a lot of local businesses tourism pages on Facebook and I see what events they are promoting.

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

Walk Around Town

Because of a Facebook post, one weekend we went to The Milky Way in Palisade.  They had a birthday promotion of 50% off and we had never been. Great food and drink, cute place with small indoor seating and more outdoor seating in the backyard. We ran into a friend while there! After that, we walked around town and went into local shops, art galleries, and the Palisade Library. We cruised through books for purchase (building in the back of the library) and ended up checking out a few books from the library.

See my post about our Divide Road and Unaweep Canyon Experience.  A special overlook I learned about by reading a book from the library!

During the summer we go to Palisade every Sunday for the fabulous farmer’s market. (Fruita and Grand Junction have farmers markets too.) Since it’s winter now, we’ve been missing it! When we go to Palisade, we always take the Scenic Fruit & Wine Byway as we make our way home. Sometimes stopping at a winery, distillery, or the pie shop for a slice of pie or ice cream.

The same goes for walking around downtown Fruita or Grand Junction. Always a fun activity with things to see, places to shop, and great food and beverages. We bought a sign about adventures to hang on our wall from a local shop in downtown GJ while we were waiting to be seated at a local restaurant next door.

Adventure Sign and USA map

Hiking for Beginners

Best Easy Day Hikes in Grand Junction and Moab book coverBefore we moved here, friends of ours in Minnesota gave us a book called Best Easy Day Hikes in Grand Junction and Fruita by Bill Haggerty, a Falcon Guide®. It has been very useful. If you are new to hiking, I highly recommend it. These easy/short hikes can be done in a morning or afternoon, or pack a picnic lunch and make it an all-day activity.

We are working our way through the list of short hikes in the book. Here are the ones we’ve done so far. We have enjoyed all of them for different reasons. I recommend you get the book for full details. We’ve done other great hikes too, like the Palisade Rim Trail and Miracle Rock in Glade Park to name a few.

  1. Mica Mine (BLM Bangs Canyon) – The trail is at the bottom of the canyon, so it’s cooler here in the summer. You cross the riverbed sometimes, so be aware it may have water in it. It was very low when we were there. Mica is a shiny, flaky mineral.
  2. Dominguez Canyon hike Michelle Aspelin dipping toes in Gunnison River

    Dominguez Canyon hike Gunnison River

    Dominguez Canyon (BLM Dominguez Canyon Wilderness) – This is south of Grand Junction near Whitewater off Hwy 50. A great drive and hike. We saw some old cow cabins and dipped our toes in the Gunnison River.

  3. Devils Kitchen (Colorado National Monument) – This hike prompted me to get the All Trails app on my phone because it wasn’t very well marked towards the end. Everyone says, “Stay on the trail.” but how do you do that when it’s not marked? The hike was great, steep at the end but we went inside the “devil’s kitchen” area. Not sure if that was ok, but others were there too. We saw a big horn sheep on that hike.
  4. Monument Canyon (Colorado National Monument) – We’ve done the first part of this one a couple of times. It’s a 5-mile loop. You are likely to see big horn sheep here, especially nearing dusk. It’s a steep trail but there are steps. Amazing views of the canyon and Independence Monument.
  5. Dinosaur Bones near Fruita

    Dinosaur Bones near Fruita

    Dinosaur Hill (near CNM entrance in Fruita) – It’s good to learn about the history of the area, dinosaurs include. This was good, no bones to see, just informative signs.

  6. Fruita Paleontological Area (McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area)– We saw dinosaur bones here, a great hike with many more trails in this area, like to an old cabin. Seeing the cabin is still on our list. There are lots of bones to see in nature in Moab too.
  7. Trail Through Time (BLM Rabbit Valley) – It was very windy the day we went but still great to see actual dinosaur bones “in the wild” still stuck in the rock. There’s a cool campground up high that overlooks Rabbit Valley, and you can see all the way to the La Sal Mountains in Utah. This trail is near the Utah border.
  8. Coal Canyon Trail (BLM Book Cliffs Wild Horse Range) – We drove this one during the time of year when driving is allowed. We didn’t get out and hike. This is where you can see wild horses. It was cool to see ribbons of coal in the rock as we drove by. The wall with coal is so close you can touch it as you slowly drive by. The gates into Coal Canyon Road are closed to vehicles from December 1 through May 31 during the foaling season and for wildlife protection.
  9. Mesa Lakes Lodge Lake Loop

    Mesa Lakes Lodge Lake Loop

    Mesa Lakes Area Trails (Grand Mesa National Forest) – We have done this a few times with friends and visitors. Trails go through the woods and around small lakes. Mesa Lakes Lodge is there, that’s where we park and get some appetizers inside when we are done. We went snowshoeing here in the winter. You can ice fish too. Bring bug spray in the summer months.

  10. Colorado Riverfront Trail (Colorado River) – This is one of our favorite walks. We usually park in Las Colonias near the bridge and Camp Eddy campground. We had family stay at Camp Eddy for a month, two thumbs up! We cross the Colorado River or just walk down the trail towards the boat launch, beach, and lazy river. The zipline is here too that goes over the river. This trail can take you all the way to Palisade or Fruita too! Good for walking or biking.

To wrap it up, there are a lot of great things to do in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and the surrounding communities. These are just a few. You can read a post about each city to learn more. You might enjoy Paul’s post about which water bottles we have, why we chose them, and where to get them locally.

If you are considering a trip to the Grand Valley and maybe moving here, Paul would like to show you around the area and maybe schedule a few properties to show you in person while you are here. Connect with Paul.

Other posts you might enjoy as you find things to do in the Grand Valley.

Two-Day Itinerary in Grand Junction, Why Move to Grand Junction

Golf Courses in Grand Junction

Why Move to Fruita

Why Move to Palisade

Follow us on Facebook: Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction

Guest post written by Michelle Aspelin

© 2025 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com and Michelle Aspelin Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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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 3rd and 4th 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

“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 12th 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

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

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!

Connect with me on LinkedIn

Text/call me with your questions! 612-306-9558

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

© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com. Copyright protected. All Rights Reserved.

 

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