The Grand Mesa: Grand Junction's Winter Wonderland

It's winter in Grand Junction and some of us want some snow -- which doesn't stick around the Valley for too long. Good news for those who dislike snow, bad news for snow lovers! Don't fret snow lovers, we have some great snow just a short trip away.

The Grand Mesa is one of Grand Junction's and the Western Slope's killer features that offers some awesome activities -- especially during the winter! We're not talking about just skiing and snowboarding, there're all these other rad activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Sledding at Old Powderhorn

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Known by locals as "Old Powderhorn," the old Mesa Creek Ski Area just off the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway is a great place to go sledding. About three miles past Powderhorn Ski Resort on the south side of the road you'll see the parking area -- head up the trailhead and watch out for trees on the way down. Might as well take a lunch, some snacks and enjoy the day with the family.

Snowmobiling on Grand Mesa

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The Grand Mesa has nearly 200 miles of snowmobile trails, from the laid-back Land's End loop to some more experienced climbs. Don't have your own sled? You can find rentals and guides at Grand Mesa Lodge in Cedaredge, Mesa Lakes Resorts or Thunder Mountain Lodge in Cedaredge.

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Ice Fishing Mesa Lakes

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Ice fishing has been gaining popularity in Colorado and Grand Mesa is a great place to wet your line. Just a short trip up the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway and you'll be ready to hook into some of the best brookies, rainbows, browns, and cutthroats on the Western Slope.

Snowshoeing Grand Mesa Trails

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The Grand Mesa offers over 30 miles of groomed trails maintained by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council, including the Skyway, County Line, and Ward trail systems. Skyway and County Line are groomed for skating and traditional styles while Ward is groomed for conventional. Don't forget to take a trail map with you!

Grand Mesa Cross-country Skiing

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Nothing beats hitting the deep snow with a pair of snowshoes and the Mesa offers miles after miles of terrain to see. According to GMNC, some of the best snowshoeing can be found at Mesa Lakes and Griffith on the Mesa County side. Other great areas include the County Line and Ward areas. The GMNC does ask if you use the groomed cross-country ski trails to be courteous to skiers.

Explore the Grand Mesa's Hidden Overlooks on Colorado's County Line Trail

The hike around the Grand Mesa's County Line Trail features overlooks that are not found on any map. Check out the incredible overlooks waiting to be discovered by hiking back to the rear of the trail and following the old viewpoint markers.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

Take a Closer Look At This Western Colorado Landmark on the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway

You'll find this one-room structure on the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway shortly after you begin making the ascent up the Grand Mesa. It is located on the south side of Highway 65, at 4868 CO-65, roughly 1,600 feet after you turn off I-70.

What purpose did this building serve back in its day? According to an email from the Plateau Valley Historical Preservation Society:

"The little building is all that remains of an early day weigh station. The Frank Lewis family had a home there, provided food and lodging for travelers. He had to place bars over the windows to keep his supplies safe." - Anis Kelley, secretary - Plateau Valley Historical Preservation Society

Gallery Credit: Waylon Jordan