2026 Grand Junction travel guide

Hiking and Fishing

“We have so many mountain ranges that surround us,” says Rebecca McKenna of Colorado West Slope Fly Fishing, which she co-owns with her husband, Jake. “You can start in the high desert, and then drive 45 minutes and you’re in pine trees surrounded by bodies of water with moose, bear and elk. Grand Junction is a great location for exploring all different types of terrain and climate.” 

Perhaps the most famous nearby example, and located about 30 minutes from downtown, is the Colorado National Monument. 

“It’s like the red rocks of Moab,” says McKenna, a Grand Junction native. 

Indeed, the Colorado National Monument is home to trails ranging from a quarter of a mile to 14 miles. Or take the 23-mile drive throughout the park, where, along with its striking red rocks, one might spot bighorn sheep and plenty of other high-desert critters. If you want to stay in the park and enjoy the stargazing, check out the Saddlehorn Campground. 

In town, people can take advantage of the 28-mile paved Grand Junction Riverfront trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. There’s also Grand Mesa, the largest flattop mountain in the world and home to miles of trails as well as skiing in the wintertime. 

Or, check out over 50 species of protected animals and plant life at ​​​​​​Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) area is home to 210,172 acres and, of course, miles of hiking trails. 

For those who want to take a load off and try their luck fishing, a rafting adventure might be in order.

“We offer float trips on the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers as well as trips on various lakes and reservoirs, including in the Grand Mesa,” says McKenna. They have been guiding all over the Western Slope since 2022.  “We also have permits to state parks like Harvey Gap and Rifle Gap, as well as access to a private ranch that has good lakes and fishing.” 

As for what you could expect to catch? McKenna notes there are rainbow trout, brown trout, cutbows (a mix between a rainbow and cutthroat trout), blue head suckers, carp, and other fish in the many bodies of water that are available.

Additionally, the Gunnison River is “home to some gold medal fishing waters,” according to Ball, who serves as director of communications for The Gear Junction in Grand Junction.

Along with guided trips from West Slope Fly Fishing, you can also look for options from companies like Western Anglers, which offer everything from fly fishing casting classes to full-day float trips. 

Or, purchase a fishing license through Colorado Parks and Wildlife and explore the nearby rivers and reservoirs on your own. 

Rafting and floating 

Depending on the time of year, it gets hot in Grand Junction. And so finding a way to cool off is an absolute must. 

Thankfully, “the Colorado River runs right through the heart of Grand Junction,” says Ball. “It’s a lovely, easy little day float. You can do anything from one hour to eight.”