Grand Junction, Palisade, Fruita | COME TO LIFE 23-mile Rim Rock Drive or take a ranger-led tour. In the summer, hook up with Western Colorado Astronomy Club to see the Milky Way above the canyons. For a tour of the world’s second largest concentration of natural rock arches, Rattlesnake Canyon within the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area is a special spot for those willing to earn it — it’s reached via rough 4x4 drive and moderate hike. Serious mountain bikers will want to add an extra day to explore the trails around Fruita, arguably the best network of singletrack in Colorado. The town is also popular for ATVers who love desert trails, while rock crawlers find vast and varied terrain in the North Fruita Desert area. Numerous outfitters can set you up with maps and info on the best trails. In summer, cheer on your favorite riders at the Rimrock Rodeo or jam out at Civic Center Park downtown. POWDERHORN MOUNTAIN RESORT WINTER FUN FAMILY-FRIENDLY POWDERHORN MOUNTAIN RESORT IS LOCATED ON THE GRAND MESA. Skiers, riders and snowtubers see something more like the Grand Canyon than the typical alpine view. Allow Ski Patrol Ski Along to be your own personal guide to the mountain, or explore 50 kilometers of cross-country trails that are maintained by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council. Then end your day’s adventure by staying at one of the base area’s tiny homes. Stay & Play Options Clifton , Collbran , Fruita (page 183), Grand Junction (page 184), Loma , Mesa , Palisade (page 186), Parachute , Rangely (page 186) Life tastes good here all year long . COLORADO . COM 159