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Grand Junction is surrounded by majestic beauty that is unique to Colorado and is famous for the one and only, Nature's Trifecta. This natural wonder is a combination of three contrasting and unique geographical landscapes that can't be found anywhere else in the world! They include Colorado National Monument, known as the mini Grand Canyon; the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world bursting with over 300 alpine lakes; and Rattlesnake Arches, the second-most natural arches in the world. Grand Junction is proof that Mother Nature really does play favorites!
Colorado National Monument
Just 10 minutes from Downtown Grand Junction stands the majestic Colorado National Monument. As part of the National Park System, Colorado National Monument is often referred to as a mini-Grand Canyon. Discover over 43 miles of hiking trails and scenic overlooks and vistas – all without the crowds. For a truly surprising experience, stop at the Upper Ute Canyon View, walk to the left of the "mummy" and yell “cowabunga.” We promise you will not be disappointed. The Colorado National Monument offers 27 hiking trails that can be enjoyed year-round (7 easy, 14 moderate, and 6 difficult trails). There is also year-round camping at Saddlehorn Campground, perfect for stargazing where you can see actual galaxies. Spring is in bloom, so desert flowers add an extra pop of color to the desert landscape.
Grand Mesa
The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-top mountain in the world bursting with over 300 pristine alpine lakes and is only a short 45-minute drive from Grand Junction. Hike among the wildflowers in the spring with waterfalls cascading down the steep cliffs. As summer approaches, the Grand Mesa is an easy respite from the high noon heat that Grand Junction sometimes experiences. Hiking, fishing, stand-up-paddleboarding, mountain biking and OHV riding are all popular sports during the spring, summer, and fall seasons on the Grand Mesa.
Rattlesnake Arches
Colorado has arches! Rattlesnake Arches is the second-largest concentration of natural arches in the World and is located at Rattlesnake Canyon in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. There are 35 natural arches all within one mile of each other, with two ways to access them. The first is a 15.5-mile roundtrip hike on the Pollock Bench trail and the second is a shorter route on the Upper Trailhead accessed from Glade Park, which is the recommended route. However, the Upper Trailhead route does require a 4-wheel drive and high clearance vehicle so plan accordingly. For detailed directions to Rattlesnake Arches, click here. The Visitor Guide also has a very helpful resource, including a map and opening dates of both trails. If you’re looking to stay overnight in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, you can reserve campsites at Recreation.gov. There are also first-come first-served spots available separate from the reservations.
For more ways to experience Grand Junction, check out the Official Grand Junction Adventure Guide.