What can you do outdoors in Grand Junction? The real question is what CAN’T you do?

The Grand Valley (which includes the span from Palisade in the East to Fruita in the West) continues to draw plenty of attention due to its incredible outdoor lifestyle. The majestic desertscape all around, mountains to the east, skiing at Powderhorn, mountain biking in Fruita and rafting the Colorado river, there is very little lacking when it comes to outdoor adventures around the Grand Valley.

The Grand Junction outdoor lifestyle continues to gain attention and press not just on a local level, but on a national level as well. The New York Times included Grand Junction in their 52 Places to Travel list in 2023. 

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/travel/52-places-travel-2023.html

The cat is out of the bag with the desirable outdoor lifestyle that can be afforded in the Grand Valley, and Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade, and the surrounding areas continue to increase steadily in value. 

The Grand Junction outdoor lifestyle and the Grand Valley have SO much to offer.

What comes to mind when you think of outdoor lifestyle? Maybe you envision a place with mountains, snow sports, hiking trails, world class mountain biking, rivers, lakes, water sports, cobalt blue skies, fresh air, killer views as far as the eye can see…and oh ya, no traffic?! Well here it is in Grand Junction and its surrounding areas. I wouldn’t believe it myself, except that I’ve lived it for the past 10 years. Full disclosure, I always have a twinge of guilt when I see people out biking, hiking or doing the outdoor things, and I’m hiding indoors binge watching something totally not worthwhile. But judgment aside, it really is an ideal place to take advantage of the great outdoors.

Some of my favorite places to explore the Grand Junction outdoor lifestyle opportunities when I’m not hiding indoors feeling guilty:

The Colorado National Monument

Whether you’re riding your bike, hiking, going to the visitors center to buy cactus candy, or just driving through, the National Monument doesn’t disappoint. Full of cliffs, spires and very unintimidated herds of bighorn sheep, the Monument is a visual spectacular of the valley’s expansive desert landscape. FYI, dogs aren’t allowed on trails in the Monument, even if you try to dress them up as bighorn sheep. 

More info: https://www.nps.gov/colm/index.htm

Independence Monument/Wedding Canyon Trail

This is my all-time favorite local hike. It’s 5 miles of feeling small next to towering bands of sandstone. You’re ultimately rewarded with a front and center encounter with Independence Monument, one of the National Monuments iconic rock formations. So, lace up your trail runners, bring some water and a snack and hit the (very) dusty trail. 

More info: https://www.gjhikes.com/2012/05/independence-monument.html 

Powderhorn Mountain Resort

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be a promoter of snow, which was always a little too cold and wet for this fair weather girl. But, here I am singing its praises. Our “little” neighborhood mountain draws skiers and snowboarders from local and distant locations. There’s a variety of terrain and, as my husband has said, “the best powder he’s ever skied.” And he’s skied lots of powder. Additionally, the lift tickets are fairly budget friendly (in comparison to other resorts), and the friendly neighborhood atmosphere is a twitter with laughter, smiles, and chit chat on the outdoor deck next to the lodge’s restaurant/bar. Side note, I’m not a huge fan of the gravy-smothered poutine, but the pickle fries are to die for.

FYI, Powderhorn turns into a downhill bike area in the summer, and lift tickets are available for purchase to take you and your favorite two-wheeled pal to the top. 

More info: https://powderhorn.com

To all my fellow Grand Valley-ites, let me know what your favorite outdoor activities are in this beautiful place we get to call home. 

Want to learn more about Grand Junction outdoor lifestyle opportunities?

DM me directly with any questions you have about what the Grand Valley has to offer!

 

Happy adventuring,

Alanna

Alanna Spees, REALTOR®
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