THE GRAND MESA Exit 49 FALL Fall is one of the most popular times of the year to visit the Grand Mesa as a kaleidoscope of color paints the slopes and shoreline. Golden aspens contrast against the dark green pine trees -making for the perfect backdrop for photos. The recommended route is to drive up Lands End Road, which opens in June depending on the snowpack. This route consists of a switchback dirt road that features a waterfall named Kannah Creek Falls, and a natural spring where you can fill up your water bottle with fresh alpine water. The waterfall is located about 750 feet after the spring when going up the Grand Mesa on Lands End Road. At the top is Lands End Observatory are spectacular views that reach over 70 miles away to the La Sal Mountains of eastern Utah and the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The city of Grand Junction and the Colorado River can be seen closer in the foreground. This vantage point provides the perspective of how large the mesa is and how abruptly it drops off to the valley below. WINTER Just like the rest of Colorado, the Grand Mesa transforms into a winter wonderland. With an average of 250 inches of snowfall a year, the Grand Mesa serves up endless winter fun. Downhill ski or snowboard at Colorado’s friendliest and affordable ski resort, Powderhorn Mountain Resort . Explore miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the machine-groomed trails managed by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council (GMNC). Snowshoers are limited to certain GMNC areas and are encouraged to walk on the sides of the groomed trails. For those looking for some good old-fashioned family fun, check out Old Powderhorn sledding hill. The Grand Mesa also offers miles of snowmobile trails, so if you prefer an adrenaline-filled snow adventure, load up the sleds, grab your helmets and be sure to check the avalanche report before gassing up the machines. Rentals are available at several lodges on the Grand Mesa. 970.256.4060 | VisitGrandJunction.com | 13
Grand Junction Official Visitor Guide Grand Junction Official Visitor Guide: Page 13
