You Should Walk The Audubon Trail This Week – Here’s Why

Have you walked Grand Junction's Audubon Trail lately? Why not? You should visit the trail this week, and here's why.

Take a look at the photo at top. I took that with my dumbphone last Saturday morning around 8 a.m. or so. While the Audubon Trail is always enjoyable, it's magnificent in fresh snow.

Yes, I am fully aware I'm starting to sound like a broken record. Why do I keep pushing people to visit this trail? Well, look at the snow in the photos. You'll see exactly one set of footprints. Again, these photos were taken after 8 a.m. on a Saturday. One would think there would be at least fifty sets of footprints by that time. This trail is not getting used nearly enough.

No doubt there are those who will say, "Hey, dummy, shut up. We don't want this trail getting overcrowded." Fair enough. I'm not looking to turn this thing into the Boston Marathon. I would, however, like to see this trail put to good use.

This trail really is a masterpiece. It follows the Redlands canal for miles. Ultimately, you wind up at the Colorado River. In between, nothing but tons of trees, horned owls, wildlife, and scenery.

What's so special about this week? According to the National Weather Service, the Grand Junction area can expect snow through Friday. That's at least four more chances for you to enjoy the trail as it appears in the photos above.

Word to the wise - Even though it really wasn't that cold on Saturday, there were several icy spots along the trail. Even in the snow, it's not uncommon for some to jog this trail. Walking or jogging, please keep an eye open for ice. With a fresh layer of snow, it can be hard to tell where ice might linger.

Be sure to use this trail, especially this week. I promise you will enjoy. You're looking at about an hour-and-a-half investment of time. If you park at the Safeway shopping plaza, you won't need a park's pass. Dress warm, grab a coffee, and enjoy.