WATER ACTIVITIES Float, Raft & Splash: GRAND JUNCTION’S WATERS 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. COLORADO RIVER @GRANDMOMENTSMEDIA 22 | VISIT GRAND JUNCTION OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE THIS PAGE: INSTAGRAM/@GRANDMOMENTSMEDIA.