4-Day Family Adventure: Off-the-Path Outdoors in Grand Junction, Colorado
Grand Junction, Colorado
4 days
About Grand Junction, Colorado
Discover the natural beauty of Grand Junction, Colorado, nestled between the majestic Rocky Mountains and the desert mesas. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Explore the Colorado National Monument's stunning red rock formations, hike through the Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-top mountain, or bike along the Kokopelli Trail. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the region's renowned vineyards and wineries. Downtown Grand Junction boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and the historic Avalon Theatre. Experience the local cuisine, with farm-to-table restaurants serving up fresh, regional produce. Grand Junction is a year-round destination, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, and rafting, golfing, and fishing in the warmer months. Come and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and friendly atmosphere of Grand Junction, Colorado.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Adventure at the Grand Mesa
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat top mountain. Here, you can enjoy activities like fishing, hiking, or just enjoying the view.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch at the Grand Mesa. The area is known for its beautiful picnic spots with stunning views.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Grand Mesa further. You can take a scenic drive, go for a hike, or try your hand at fishing in one of the many lakes.
Dinner
Head back to Grand Junction for dinner. Opt for a restaurant that offers dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Evening
Spend the evening exploring the local shops and boutiques in downtown Grand Junction. You might find a unique souvenir or gift.
Day 3
Prehistoric Journey and Outdoor Activities
Morning
Visit the Dinosaur Journey Museum in Fruita, a short drive from Grand Junction. Here, you can learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this area.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch in Fruita. The town has a number of eateries offering a variety of cuisines.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. The area offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
Dinner
Head back to Grand Junction for dinner. Try a restaurant that specializes in Colorado's famous green chili.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Avalon Theatre in downtown Grand Junction. The theatre often hosts concerts, plays, and other performances.
Day 4
Botanical Beauty and Relaxing River Walk
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a butterfly house.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch in a restaurant in Grand Junction. Try a dish made with Palisade peaches, a local specialty.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park. You can go for a swim, have a picnic, or take a leisurely walk along the river.
Dinner
For your last dinner in Grand Junction, choose a restaurant that offers a view of the stunning Colorado landscape.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy a concert as the perfect end to your adventure-filled vacation.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Colorado National Monument
A stunning red rock canyon with panoramic views, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
2Grand Mesa
The world's largest flat top mountain offering outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.
3Dinosaur Journey Museum
A museum that tells the story of the history of life in western Colorado and surrounding areas with real fossils, cast skeletons, and robotic reconstructions of dinosaurs.
4McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
A vast, rugged landscape spanning more than 123,000 acres of high desert country. Popular for hiking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle use.
5Avalon Theatre
A historic theatre and a major landmark in Grand Junction, offering a variety of entertainment including concerts, films, and special events.
6Western Colorado Botanical Gardens
A beautiful garden featuring a variety of plant species, butterfly house, and a tropical rainforest.
7James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park
A series of five sections that follow the Colorado River providing a variety of water and land-based recreational activities.
8Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra
A professional orchestra that performs a variety of concerts throughout the year, from classical to pops.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Rocky Mountain Oysters
A unique delicacy in Colorado, Rocky Mountain Oysters are actually deep-fried bull testicles. They are a must-try for adventurous eaters visiting Grand Junction.
Colorado Lamb
Colorado is known for its high-quality lamb. In Grand Junction, you can find it prepared in various ways, from roasted to grilled.
Palisade Peaches
Grand Junction is located near Palisade, which is famous for its juicy and sweet peaches. They are a must-try during the summer season.
Elk Sausage
Elk is a common game meat in Colorado. In Grand Junction, elk sausage is a popular local dish, often served with sauerkraut or in a bun.
Green Chili
A staple in Colorado cuisine, green chili is a spicy stew made with pork and green chilies. It's a favorite comfort food in Grand Junction.
Trout
Colorado is known for its freshwater fish, and trout is a local favorite. In Grand Junction, you can find it grilled, smoked, or pan-fried.
Colorado Craft Beer
Colorado is famous for its craft beer scene, and Grand Junction is no exception. There are many local breweries producing a wide variety of beers.
Palisade Wine
Grand Junction is located in Colorado's wine country. The local wines, especially those made from grapes grown in nearby Palisade, are a must-try.
Bison Burger
Bison is a lean and flavorful meat that's popular in Colorado. In Grand Junction, a bison burger is a tasty alternative to a traditional beef burger.
Chokecherry Wine
Chokecherry wine is a unique local product of Grand Junction. It's made from chokecherries, a type of berry native to Colorado.
Colorado Whiskey
Colorado is known for its high-quality whiskey. In Grand Junction, you can find local distilleries producing a variety of whiskeys.
Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are a staple in Colorado cuisine. In Grand Junction, they are often served as a side dish or used in soups and stews.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Grand Junction, Colorado is from late spring to early fall, specifically between May and October. During this period, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the national parks. The vineyards in the area also have their wine tasting events during this season. However, if you're interested in winter sports, late November to early March is the ideal time to visit.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Grand Junction. There are several car rental companies available at the Grand Junction Regional Airport and throughout the city. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Grand Junction. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or if you're planning to go out for the evening. Simply download the app, request a ride, and a driver will pick you up and take you to your destination.
Biking
Grand Junction is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. You can rent a bike from one of the local bike shops or bring your own. This is a great way to enjoy the city's beautiful scenery and get some exercise at the same time.
Public Transportation
Grand Valley Transit (GVT) operates a public bus system that serves Grand Junction and the surrounding areas. The buses run on a regular schedule and cover most parts of the city. This is an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around.
Taxi
Taxis are available in Grand Junction. You can hail a taxi on the street, call a local taxi company, or book one through a smartphone app. This is a convenient option if you prefer a private ride and don't want to worry about parking.
Walk
Grand Junction's downtown area is pedestrian-friendly with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. This is a great way to explore the city, enjoy the local atmosphere, and get some exercise.
Driving
If you have your own vehicle, driving is a convenient way to get around Grand Junction. The city is easy to navigate with well-marked roads and ample parking. However, be aware of the local traffic rules and regulations.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Grand Junction, Colorado as a first time visitor
1
Grand Junction is located in western Colorado, in the United States.
2
The city experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters.
3
The average summer temperature ranges from 90-100°F (32-38°C), while winter temperatures can drop to 16-43°F (-9-6°C).
4
The city is known for its wineries, so consider trying some local wines.
5
Grand Junction is located at an elevation of about 4,593 feet (1,400 meters), so you may experience altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and take it easy for the first few days.
6
The city is relatively small, with a population of around 60,000 people.
7
The local time zone is Mountain Standard Time (MST).
8
The city is served by Grand Junction Regional Airport, which offers flights to several major U.S. cities.
9
Public transportation is available, but renting a car is the best way to get around and explore the surrounding areas.
10
The city is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
11
Grand Junction is home to Colorado Mesa University.
12
The city is surrounded by vast public lands, including the Colorado National Monument and the Grand Mesa.
13
The local economy is driven by healthcare, education, and tourism.
14
The city has a low crime rate compared to other U.S. cities of similar size.
15
The cost of living in Grand Junction is lower than the U.S. average.
16
The city has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and a performing arts center.
17
Grand Junction is known for its peaches, so try some if you're visiting during peach season (late summer).
18
The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Colorado Mountain Winefest and the Grand Junction Air Show.
19
The city has a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
20
Grand Junction is a great base for exploring other parts of Colorado, including Aspen and Telluride.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)
Shorts (1 pair)
Pajamas (1 set)
Sweater or jacket (1)
Swimsuit (1)
Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)
Sandals or flip-flops (1 pair)
Hat or cap (1)
Sunglasses (1 pair)
Gloves (1 pair)
Toiletries
Toothbrush (1)
Toothpaste (1 small tube)
Deodorant (1)
Shampoo and conditioner (travel size)
Body wash or soap (travel size)
Razor (1)
Shaving cream (travel size)
Sunscreen (1)
Lip balm with SPF (1)
First-aid kit (1)
Prescription medications
Hand sanitizer (1 small bottle)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport or ID
Wallet with credit/debit cards and cash
Health insurance card
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Maps and guidebooks
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone with charger
Camera with charger
Headphones
Portable power bank
Adapters and converters
Laptop with charger (optional)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks and water bottle
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable shopping bag
Umbrella or raincoat
Notebook and pen
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Ziplock bags for organization
Weather Conditions
Grand Junction, Colorado, is known for its diverse climate, ranging from hot summers to cold winters. Therefore, it's essential to plan your visit according to the weather conditions you prefer. During the summer months (June through August), temperatures can reach highs of around 90°F (32°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the national parks. However, it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear sun protection due to the intense heat. The winter months (December through February) in Grand Junction can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to around 23°F (-5°C). If you're planning a winter visit, pack warm clothing, as snowfall is common, making it a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The shoulder seasons - spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) - offer more moderate temperatures, ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). These periods are ideal for those who prefer milder weather. The fall foliage is particularly beautiful, and spring is a great time to see the wildflowers in bloom. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Grand Junction is located at a high elevation, so it's important to take time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activity for the first day or two, and consume foods high in potassium. Lastly, always check the local weather forecast before heading out for the day, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Enjoy your visit to Grand Junction!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 4° / -9° | January is the coldest month in Grand Junction, with snowfall common, so pack warm clothing. |
February | 7° / -7° | February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow, but temperatures start to rise slightly. |
March | 12° / -3° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures rising and snowfall decreasing. |
April | 17° / 1° | April is a mild month, with temperatures comfortable for outdoor activities. |
May | 22° / 6° | May is a pleasant month, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. |
June | 29° / 11° | June is the start of summer, with hot temperatures and long, sunny days. |
July | 33° / 16° | July is the hottest month in Grand Junction, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city. |
August | 32° / 15° | August is still very hot, but temperatures start to decrease slightly towards the end of the month. |
September | 26° / 9° | September is a comfortable month, with mild temperatures and less crowds. |
October | 18° / 3° | October sees the start of fall, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. |
November | 10° / -2° | November is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping and the chance of snow increasing. |
December | 5° / -7° | December is a cold month, with snowfall common, so pack warm clothing. |
Did you know?
Places near by Grand Junction, Colorado
Colorado National Monument
A stunning red rock canyon with panoramic views.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
A deep, steep-walled canyon carved by the Gunnison River.
Moab
A city known for its dramatic red rock landscape, including Arches National Park.
Telluride
A former Victorian mining town in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, now a popular ski resort.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
A diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, conifer and aspen forests, alpine lakes, and tundra.
Denver
The capital of Colorado, known for its vibrant arts scene, multitude of craft breweries, and high-altitude sports.
Aspen
A ski resort town in the Rocky Mountains known for its high-end restaurants and boutiques.
Rocky Mountain National Park
A national park with majestic mountain views, varied climates and environments, from wooded forests to mountain tundra.
