With its miles of cattle ranches and fruit orchards, the Grand Valley once had a reputation among Coloradoans for being—how to put this diplomatically?—well, boring. But that rep is on the outs these days as day-trippers from Denver and Boulder drift west along Interstate 70 to discover a drop-dead gorgeous valley that’s a mini Napa-meets-Boulder-meets-Moab.
The trio of towns here—Palisade, Grand Junction, and Fruita—have it all. Vineyard-striped wine country? Check. World-class mountain bike trails? Check. Great food, shopping, and shows? Check, check, check. And you’ll have it to yourself now that summer crowds are gone, with the bonus of cooler temps. Here, our guide to a slam-dunk Grand Valley weekend.
Located approximately 10 miles northwest of Grand Junction, the City of Fruita features some of the most varied outdoor recreation opportunities in the state of Colorado. With quick access to the Colorado National Monument, the Book Cliffs, and the Colorado River, you’re sure to find something fun to do outside during your stay. If you’re a resident, you probably know that in addition to all the tourism and recreational opportunities here, Fruita is a great place to live and raise a family. The small-town feel, combined with larger-town amenities, make Fruita unique.
Located just a few hours west of Denver, Colorado’s Grand Valley sits amid one of the most beautiful outdoor playgrounds in the country. Comprised of Grand Junction, Palisade and Fruita, the landscape here is dramatically different from anywhere else in the state, surrounded by rivers, canyons, mesas and mountains to explore. There’s no shortage of adventures to experience. Hike the Colorado National Monument, ski the world’s largest flat top mountain, bike 1,500-plus miles of singletrack, explore nearly 3,000 square miles of mostly public lands, tee off at award-winning golf courses, climb more than 150 routes, and recreate on the storied Colorado River, all in one day. And, when the sun sets, visitors can sip locally crafted libations at one of 23 area wineries, breweries or distilleries, dine at nationally recognized restaurants, shop at charming boutiques and enjoy exciting nightlife and arts and cultural programming.
The Grand Valley – Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita
You may be coming for a bike race but you’ll soon discover this is a destination for your entire clan! Peaches and apples right from the tree. Local wines, beers, and produce for you foodies. The dinosaur museum, lakes, rivers and swimming pools for the kiddos. Downtown shopping and entertainment for all. Not to mention the world class, hiking, biking and scenery throughout the valley.
Local Hotels
Restaurants
Breweries & Wineries
Regional Airport