Grand Junction Official Visitor Guide - Grand Junction Official Visitor Guide
Float, Raft & Splash: Grand Junction's Waters
2026-09-24 04:24:57
Grand Junction’s hundreds of lakes and miles of rivers are perfect for a bounty of aquatic pursuits. In fact, the area is a watersports haven for whitewater rafting, stand-up paddleboarding, floating, fishing and much more.
RUBY-HORSETHIEF CANYON
For those who like to go with the flow, visit the 25-mile stretch of the Colorado River that runs from Loma, Colorado to Westwater, Utah. The Ruby-Horsethief section of the river is calm with occasional mild rapids encased in magnificent red-rock canyons. Bring your camera to photograph bighorn sheep, bald eagles and the canyons that envelop you as you float down the river. Want to leave the gear and planning to someone else? Book a memorable day trek with Rimrock Adventures.
Find more splash-worthy adventures at VisitGrandJunction.com/WaterActivities
GRAND MESA NATIONAL FOREST
The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-top mountain in the world, boasting more than 300 lakes and 3,600 miles of tributaries overflowing with fantastic trout fishing and water sports. Try Bull Creek Reservoirs (#1 and #2), which offer opportunities to catch rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout. If you enjoy motoring across smooth-as-glass water, check out Sunset, Griffith or Glacier lakes. But if you want to explore in a canoe or kayak, visit Forty Acre Lake, Kitson Reservoir or Rimrock Lake, where the paddling is pristine since motorized boats are prohibited.
JAMES M. ROBB COLORADO RIVER STATE PARK
This 35-mile park stretches like a strand of pearls, with each section specifically designed to cater to distinct interests. Stop first at Island Acres, best if you’re traveling west on I-70. Take a swim in the lake amid the area’s distinct landscape of ribbed plateaus. This area is also home to Colorado’s Wine Country, and Palisade Cycle & Shuttle, offering relaxing ways to soak in views of the growing region. If you’re looking for a river launch, the best location is Connected Lakes. It’s an idyllic spot for boats and rafts and offers a pier for those looking to do a little warm-water fishing.
HIGHLINE LAKE STATE PARK & MACK MESA LAKE
Located half an hour from Downtown Grand Junction, Highline Lake State Park’s two lakes have plenty of room to enjoy soaking up some sun on the convenient swim beach or glide across the water on a relaxing kayak excursion. Head to Mack Mesa Lake for paddleboarding and cold- and warm-water fishing. If you’re looking for an SUP tour, check out Grand Junction Adventures lessons, rentals and SUP yoga.
COLORADO RIVER
The stretch of the Colorado River that runs through Grand Junction flows primarily at Class I or II rapids, creating ideal conditions for calm, scenic floats by paddleboard, kayak, or raft. The river offers a relaxing way to experience the landscape from a different perspective. Always check current river conditions and wear a properly fitted PFD.
If fishing is more your speed, contact Western Anglers Fly Shop or Colorado West Slope Fly Fishing before heading out on the water. Their expert staff can recommend prime river spots or connect you with experienced guides for a day of tight lines. A guided trip helps anglers of all skill levels better understand the river while enjoying some of western Colorado’s most scenic waters.
Chasin’ Waterfalls
Grand Junction may have a high desert climate, but don’t let that fool you. Explore Lands End waterfalls on the Grand Mesa or Big Dominguez Canyon waterfalls on No Thoroughfare Canyon Trail for sparkling cascades.
Did You Know?
Since it’s rare for so many lakes and reservoirs to be found so close together at such a high elevation, the Grand Mesa is a true treasure. And the national forest’s 10,000-foot altitude means cooler temps in the summer, making the 300 lakes a stellar retreat from the heat.
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