For outdoor lovers, Colorado is a fantastic choice for an elopement, if only because it has such a diversity of landscapes. Couples can exchange vows atop sandstone canyons in Colorado National Monument just minutes from Downtown Grand Junction. – HGTV Grand Junction, Colorado, offers unique spring adventures like skiing at Powderhorn, exploring Colorado National Monument, and enjoying its growing wine scene. It’s a quieter, affordable destination with excellent spring weather – WGN CHICAGO The Colorado Plateau is America’s greatest natural playgound, shaped by the Colorado River over millions of years. Base out of Grand Junction, for Colorado National Monument, surrounded by top-notch hiking, mountain biking trails, campsites, and wineries. – OUTSIDE ONLINE Grand Junction is a dream come true for families who love both great food and adventure. On some 1 million acres of public lands, hiking and biking trails and ATV tours abound. After you return from the fun activities, Grand Junction’s charming downtown welcomes you with tasty, affordable eats at family-friendly establishments. – GOOD HOUSEKEEPING Instead of the Grand Canyon, visit Colorado National Monument, part of the same Colorado Plateau with similar stunning sandstone formations. It offers the beauty of iconic parks like the Grand Canyon and Arches but with far fewer visitors. – NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Grand Junction in western Colorado is known as the state’s fruit capital. Beginning in April, you can see cherry blossoms, plus peach and apricot blossoms, for a profusion of pink and white. Since it’s Colorado, the fruit orchards have beautiful mountain backgrounds. – USA TODAY Detour to Grand Junction, Colorado, where mountains, rivers, canyons, and forests converge. Explore “Nature’s Trifecta”—Colorado National Monument, Rattlesnake Arches, and Grand Mesa—alongside hiking, biking, and a vibrant downtown with art, breweries, and farm-to-table dining. – BOSTON GLOBE Old Gordon Trail, once an 1880s toll road, climbs 1,600 feet through slick rock, cacti, and pinyon-juniper trees. Nearby Rattlesnake Canyon Arches Trail offers a remote high-desert trek through stunning sandstone arches and Mars-like formations. – CONDE NAST In 2023, Arches National Park drew 2.4 million visitors, while McInnis Canyons’ Rattlesnake Arches saw 300,000. Reaching this hidden gem requires a tough hike or off-road vehicle, with guided tours available. – AFAR VisitGrandJunction.com
Grand Junction Official Visitor Guide Grand Junction Adventure Guide: Page 25
