Western Colorado Ideal Location Reopening Soon [VIDEO]

Before temperatures get too hot, and before bugs get too thick, make a point to visit the awesome Wild Rose Picnic Area on the Grand Mesa. It's easy to get to, offers beautiful scenery and features, it's free, and it's re-opening soon!

As of May 1, the BLM will open the gate on Lands End Road, making access to this and other sites on the Mesa available to the public for the 2016 season. First stop - the Wild Rose Picnic Area.

The Wild Rose Picnic Area on the Grand Mesa comes loaded with barbecue pits, tables, restrooms, and ample parking. Okay, that's the man-made stuff. On the nature side, it features incredible streams, amazing scenery, and in some areas, a canopy of tree cover.

This location is always awesome (with the exception of deep winter) but is at its best with cool temperatures and a light rain. Right here, right now, Western Colorado offers both.

To find the area, just head East out of Grand Junction on Highway 50. Turn heading North on Kannah Creek Road, and continue until you reach Lands End Road. Just stay on Lands End, and it will take you directly to the turnoff.

Travel time comes in at about an hour and a half round trip. You'll see everything from trucks to compact cars making the drive, so don't worry, the road can be managed by most any make of vehicle.

Gates open May 1. Take advantage of the current conditions in Western Colorado, and visit the Wild Rose Picnic Area on the Mesa.