Celebrate This Week’s Snow With These Awesome Grand Junction Hikes

Western Colorado snow lovers rejoice! It looks like Mother Nature is going to be good to us this week with several days of snow (hopefully). Does this mean we're all going to be stuck indoors? Not likely. Some Grand Junction trails are at their best with new snow.

The Audubon Trail is paved and well maintained. Even under snowy conditions, the trail is level and mostly clear. Do be careful, though, since some icy conditions do exist.

Little Park Road and Bangs Canyon can be a little rough in the snow. The trails are well marked, and most remain visible even in heavy snow. There are several hikes to choose from. Like always, even in the best of conditions, watch your step.

You will notice signs on Little Park asking people to avoid trails when muddy. Hiking and biking under those conditions can damage the trails.

This will be the perfect week to hit my favorite area trail, Gunny Loop. This is a simple trail under any conditions. It conveniently located off of Little Park Road. The trail can offer a challenge or two with fresh snow, but the concerns are minimal. It does, however, offer the ultimate payoff. I was born and raised in Grand Junction, and I'm thinking the location pictured below might just be my favorite spot in the world.

I used to hike this spot at least once a week with my dog. When he died, I spread some of his ashes next to the rock at far right (about halfway up the photo.)

Now for the spot many would consider the cream of the crop. The trail itself is a real dud, but its namesake is awesome, especially in the winter. The Old Kiln Trail is just past the Mica Mine trailhead on the way to Glade Park. Keep your eyes open for the Old Kiln Trail sign. It's on the north side of the road, about a quarter-mile or so west of the Mica Mine parking area.

For some, this is an awesome time to hit the trails. Temperatures are low, the scenery "wow" factor is high, and traffic on the trails is at a minimum. Be one of the few to take advantage of the magnificent outdoor fun Western Colorado offers this week and hit the trails.