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Grand Junction in the Fall (Complete Colorado Travel Guide)


Located in Western Colorado, Grand Junction is a burgeoning outdoor destination that is perfect to visit during the fall. From colorful foliage, to pumpkin patches, to desert adventures, fall in Grand Junction has it all. Families, couples, and outdoor adventurers will all have a memorable experience during a trip to Grand Junction in the fall.

As a Grand Junction local, I look forward to fall every year. Not only are the temperatures finally starting to cool off, but the area is brimming with fall festivities and foliage. Visiting Grand Junction during October and early November is the perfect time to take advantage of the gorgeous weather and fall adventures. This article shares my insider tips for visiting Grand Junction in the fall!

Overlooking a golden aspen forest and lake on the Grand Mesa near Grand Junction in the fall.
Fall on the Grand Mesa.

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Where to See Fall Colors in Grand Junction

Despite being located in a desert, Grand Junction has a surprising amount of fall foliage. Grand Junction sits between roughly 4,550-4,600 ft., which is outside of the range for Colorado’s famed aspens to grow naturally, but there are plenty of other tree species around the city that change colors during the fall. The most prominent fall foliage in Grand Junction comes from cottonwoods, which grow near waterways and turn vibrant yellow during the fall.

The best place to see fall colors within Grand Junction is by heading down to the Colorado River where the cottonwoods grow. You can also find other colorful tree species throughout the urban forest, including box elders, oaks, and ashes. Not only do these trees put on a show in the fall, but they also provide ecosystem services to the community including cooling, carbon sequestration, and stormwater runoff reduction. 

If you’re looking for colorful aspens near Grand Junction, either head up to the Grand Mesa or visit Glade Park. The drive up to Glade Park through Colorado National Monument is closer to Grand Junction, but the Grand Mesa provides more robust fall foliage and scenic views.

A smiling couple walks through a grove of golden aspen trees during the fall.
All smiles on the Grand Mesa.

When to See Fall Colors in Grand Junction

Fall in Grand Junction is usually a slow burn. Trees around town begin changing in September, but peak fall colors usually don’t occur until late October. Weather conditions like drought and cold snaps can effect the timing of the fall foliage.

The aspens on the Grand Mesa typically peak in late September with prime colors often lingering into early October. Fall colors on Glade Park follow a similar pattern.

Woman sits on a rock at sunset surrounded by golden aspen trees on the Grand Mesa in Colorado.
Sunset on the Grand Mesa.

What’s the Weather Like in Grand Junction in the Fall?

The weather in Grand Junction in the fall is usually warm and pleasant. It still feels like summer throughout September and early October with temperatures reaching into the 80s & 90s (F), but things typically cool off into the low 70s-60s by November.

Most days in Grand Junction are sunny, but the area typically sees at least a couple moody, rainy fall days. Snow during the fall is uncommon, however there was a big snowstorm around Halloween a couple of years ago, so anything is possible!

Woman wearing all black with a plaid flannel around her waste and brown knee-high boots stands in a pumpkin house at Studt Farm in Grand Junction.
Pumpkin picking at Studt Farm.

How to Get to Grand Junction

Driving to Grand Junction

Grand Junction is approximately 4 hours from Denver; 4 ¾ hours from Colorado Springs; and 4 hours from Salt Lake City. Grand Junction is located in the Grand Valley in Western Colorado, which is also home to the towns of Palisade, Fruita, Loma, and Mack. 

From Denver: To get to Grand Junction from Denver just head west on I-70. You’ll pass through mountain towns like Silverthorne, Frisco, and Vail on your way, which are perfect stops if you need to grab a bite to eat or stretch your legs on a quick hike.

From Colorado Springs: The fastest way to get to Grand Junction from Colorado Springs is to take I-25 north to Denver, then take I-70 west to Grand Junction. You can also get to Grand Junction from Colorado Springs by taking U.S. 24-U.S. 285-U.S. 50. After arriving in Montrose, continue heading north on U.S. 50 to Grand Junction. This route adds approximately 30 minutes to the drive, but could save you time when traffic on I-70 is bad.

From Salt Lake City: To get to Grand Junction from Salt Lake City head south on I-15 to Spanish Forks. From there, continue driving south on U.S. 6 over Soldier Summit. Stay on the highway through Price and the Utah desert until you reach a junction with I-70. Fill up your gas tank or recharge in Green River before continuing east on I-70 to Grand Junction.

Flying to Grand Junction

If you’re looking to fly to Grand Junction, there is a regional airport right in town. While the proximity to Grand Junction is convenient, flights into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) are currently limited to Denver, Dallas, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles (seasonal). 

Find flights to Grand Junction:

Rent a car to visit Grand Junction:

Looking over the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway with a large grove of golden aspen trees.
View of the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway.

Recreate Responsibly in Grand Junction

Please do not carve into the aspen trees. Not only does this hurt the tree, but it also makes it more susceptible to disease and fungus. Because an entire grove of aspens share a single root system harming one tree hurts them all. It’s also worth noting that aspens are uniquely vulnerable to climate change, and many groves in the areas are suffering from long term impacts of drought. Please treat the trees respectfully so they can continue to thrive with vibrant fall colors!

Grand Junction is a very dog-friendly city and fall is a great time to visit with your furry friend. Trails in Colorado National Monument are NOT open to dogs, but all other hiking and mountain biking trails around Grand Junction are (with that said, some hikes are more suitable for dogs than others). Grand Junction is one of the best places to hike with your dog in Colorado during the winter and spring.

Black dog in a stand of golden aspen trees.
Dogs love visiting the Grand Mesa during the fall.

Trails in Grand Junction see a lot of love during the fall, so it’s important for everyone to do what they can to minimize their impact on the local environment. Here’s a refresher on the 7 Leave No Trace principles to help keep Grand Junction beautiful:

  1. Plan ahead and prepare.
  2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. 
  3. Properly dispose of waste. This includes packing out all of your trash as well as pet and human waste!
  4. Leave what you find.
  5. Minimize campfire impacts.
  6. Respect wildlife. 
  7. Be considerate of other visitors. 

The member-driven Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics teaches people how to  enjoy the outdoors responsibly. This copyrighted information has been reprinted with permission from the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org.

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5 Best Hikes in Grand Junction in the Fall

Grand Junction has a wide variety of desert hiking trails that are easily accessible right from town. Most of the hiking in Grand Junction are either in Colorado National Monument or on BLM land. Trails in Colorado National Monument are closed to mountain bikes and dogs. Trails on BLM land are dog and mountain bike friendly, except for trails that enter the Black Ridge Wilderness in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, which is closed to mountain bikes. For hikes that take you through fall foliage, head up to the Grand Mesa or Glade Park. Make sure that you dress appropriately for a fall hike in Colorado!

Here are 5 of my favorite fall hikes in Grand Junction:

Monument & Wedding Canyon Loop

If you only have time for one hike in Colorado National Monument, I recommend completing the Monument & Wedding Canyon Loop. The trail will take you through a red rock canyon providing breathtaking views of Independence Monument, which is Colorado National Monument’s most iconic feature. While you won’t find many fall colors along the trail, you will get to experience some of Grand Junction’s finest desert hiking.

The trail up Monument Canyon is very well maintained, however the trail through Wedding Canyon is considered “primitive.” This means that the National Park Service does not maintain it, so it’s relatively rocky, steep, and narrow. Make sure to keep an eye out for bighorn sheep along the trail!

Location: Colorado National Monument

Trailhead Location: Google maps

There are no bathrooms at the trailhead.

Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy-moderate. The dirt parking lot is fairly small, but has some overflow parking available (some spots require high-clearance to get over rocks). 

Distance: 4 ½ miles

Elevation Gain: 765 ft.

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated Hike Time: 2-3 hours

Permits/Fees: The trailhead is located outside of the entrance booths at Colorado National Monument. Technically a federal recreation pass (including the America the Beautiful Pass) or $15 hiker fee is required, but there’s no place to make a payment at the trailhead.

Dog-Friendly: No

Mountain Bikes: No

AllTrails Link 

Woman stands on a rock looking at Independence Monument in Colorado National Monument.

Connected Lakes Loop

The trail system at Connected Lakes State Park could more aptly be described as a walk than a hike, but it’s an easy and kid-friendly opportunity to see fall colors right in Grand Junction. Roughly half of the trails around the park’s signature lakes are paved, while the other half are gravel. The trails are wide with plenty of room for biking or passing other people.

Connected Lakes is next to the Colorado River, so there are plenty of cottonwood trees around to get your fall foliage fix in. It’s a great option if you’re looking to go on a quick scenic walk or run in town. You can also paddleboard and kayak on the lakes, but swimming is not permitted.

Location: James M. Robb Colorado River State Park- Connected Lakes Section

Trailhead Location: Google maps

There is a pit toilet at one of the parking lots.

Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. There are a couple of parking lots that you can park in. The park rarely gets crowded, however there are occasional track meets on Saturday mornings during the fall and spring.

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation Gain: 15 ft.

Difficulty: Very easy

Estimated Hike Time: 1-1 ½ hours

Permits/Fees: Colorado State Park Pass or $10 daily admission fee

Dog-Friendly: Yes. Dogs must be kept on-leash.

Mountain Bikes: Yes, but the trail is more suitable for gravel bikes.

AllTrails Link 

Woman runs on a gravel path next to a lake surrounded by golden cottonwood trees at Connected Lakes in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Devils Canyon Loop

If you want the red rock canyon views that you find in Colorado National Monument, but have your dog with you, then head to the Devils Canyon Loop in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. The area has a complex system of trails, but the hike through Devils Canyon takes you on a scenic hike past mining ruins from the days of yore. 

Most of the trees along the trail are junipers, but there are a few cottonwoods scattered throughout where you can see fall colors. Devils Canyon Loop enters the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness so mountain bikes and drones are not permitted.

Location: McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area

Trailhead Location: Google maps

There is a pit toilet at the trailhead.

Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. There is a large parking lot at the trailhead. There’s also additional parking located nearby.

Distance: 6.7 mile lollipop loop

Elevation Gain: 675 ft.

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated Hike Time: 2 ½-3 hours 

Permits/Fees: None

Dog-Friendly: Yes. Dogs must be kept under control.

Mountain Bikes: No

AllTrails Link 

Black dog in a puddle in Devils Canyon.

Crag Crest Trail

If you’re looking for a classic Colorado fall hike through golden aspens, head up to the Grand Mesa to hike Crag Crest Trail. Crag Crest is designated as a National Recreation Trail and takes hikers through a forest and up to the main attraction- Crag Crest. Crag Crest is a narrow ridge that provides 360° views of Western Colorado and dozens of lakes on the Grand Mesa. There are a few sections of the trail next to steep dropoffs, but the trail is well maintained and easy to navigate.

While the entire loop is roughly 10 miles long, you can also hike it as an out-and-back to the top of Crag Crest. This shaves a few miles off of the hike, but still allows you to see the best views along the trail.

Location: Grand Mesa National Forest

Trailhead Location: Google maps

There is a pit toilet at the trailhead.

Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy.

Distance: 10 mile lollipop loop

Elevation Gain: 1,550 ft.

Difficulty: Moderate-difficult.

Estimated Hike Time: 4-5 hours

Permits/Fees: None

Dog-Friendly: Yes. Dogs must be kept under control.

Mountain Bikes: The beginning of the trail is open to mountain bikes, but bikers will have to continue on the Cottonwood Trail instead of riding up to Crag Crest.

AllTrails Link

Woman sitting on a rock overlooking a blue lake on the Grand Mesa.

Turkey Flats Loop

Most of Grand Mesa National Forest is located on the Grand Mesa, but there’s a small tract located on Glade Park that provides scenic fall hiking. The aspens along the Turkey Flats Loop aren’t quite as vibrant and plentiful as they are on the Grand Mesa, but the area is less heavily trafficked and closer to town.

While the initial trail from the parking lot is easy to follow, completing the full Turkey Flats Loop involves traveling over backroads and can be difficult to navigate. Make sure to download or carry a map before hitting the trail!

Location: Glade Park in Grand Mesa National Forest

Trailhead Location: Google maps

There are no bathrooms at the trailhead.

Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. The trail tends to see an uptick in traffic during the fall, but it typically isn’t very crowded. If the main parking area is full there are plenty of other places to park in the vicinity (the trail can also be accessed from other side roads).

Distance: 9 miles for the full loop, but you can make the hike shorter by doing an out-and-back.

Elevation Gain: 1,150 ft.

Difficulty: Moderate if you complete the full loop.

Estimated Hike Time: 3-4 hours

Permits/Fees: None

Dog-Friendly: Yes. Dogs must be kept under control.

Mountain Bikes: Yes

AllTrails Link 

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Best Scenic Drives for Fall Colors in Grand Junction

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway

The premier scenic drive to see fall colors near Grand Junction is the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway. This 63-mile drive connects the small towns of Mesa and Cedaredge taking leaf peepers over the Grand Mesa through fiery fall foliage.

The Grand Mesa is home to over 300 lakes and you’ll pass quite a few while driving the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway. There are two main pull offs to take in sweeping views of the aspens as you look out towards the Grand Valley with plenty of other places to stop for photos along the way.

woman in orange floral dress stands on a rock with a golden aspen forest behind her.
Stopping for photos along the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway.

Lands End Road

Lands End Road is an alternative way of driving up to the top of the Grand Mesa. The dirt road begins in Kannah Creek, south of Grand Junction, and switchbacks up the side of the Grand Mesa through aspen forest. At the top of the switchbacks lies the Lands End Observatory, an old ranger station with epic views of the Western Slope.

While Lands End Road is well maintained and can be driven by passenger cars, there are a few sections with steep drop offs, so be sure to keep your eyes on the road!

A smoky fall sunset on Lands End Road on the Grand Mesa in Grand Junction.

Divide Road

Divide Road is one of Colorado’s best kept secrets when it comes to the scenic drives to see fall colors. The road goes over the Uncompahgre Plateau, which is south of Grand Junction, and begins off of CO-62 in Unaweep Canyon. While the road isn’t technically in Grand Junction, it’s close by and worth making a detour for. 

Divide Road winds through an aspen forest, so it’s perfect for viewing fall colors. Because of its somewhat remote location, it’s not heavily trafficked like other popular scenic fall drives in Colorado. The entire road is over 70 miles long, but you don’t need to drive the entire length to see stunning aspens.

If you take a scenic drive along Divide Road from Grand Junction, plan to be out for at least half of the day. Also be sure to fill your gas tank before leaving town!

Woman wearing a white dress kicking her leg out in the middle of a dirt road surrounded by golden aspen trees in Colorado.

Tour of the Moon Scenic Byway

The Tour of the Moon Scenic Byway takes you from Grand Junction to Fruita past otherworldly landscapes. The drive takes you through the Redlands and over Colorado National Monument’s Rim Rock Drive, which has numerous scenic pull outs to take in the unique rock formations and sweeping views of Grand Junction. While fall colors along the Tour of the Moon Scenic Byway are fairly minimal (shrubs along the rim of Colorado National Monument provide some pretty foliage), it’s the most scenic drive you’ll find in Grand Junction.

A winding road through Colorado National Monument.

Fall Activities in Grand Junction

Fall brings seasonal activities and agricultural events to the Grand Valley. From festivals to traditional fall activities like pumpkin picking, there’s plenty to do during the fall. Here are some can’t miss activities to do in Grand Junction this fall:

Studt Farms

Studt Farms and Pumpkin Patch is the ultimate Grand Junction destination for traditional fall activities like pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and hay rides. Take advantage of the photo op at the iconic pumpkin house or have a blast sliding down Hay Mountain and hanging out at the petting zoo. Pets are NOT allowed at Studt Farms.

Dates: Opens September 30, 2023 

Cost: Weekends: $17. Weekdays: $12. Children under 2 are free. Some activities have additional fees.

Colorado Mountain Winefest

September 11-17 is officially Wine Week in the Grand Valley. There are wine themed events across the Grand Valley throughout September, including food pairing, tastings, and educational opportunities where you can tap into your inner vintner. The main event is the Colorado Mountain Winefest in Palisade.

Dates: Events from September 11-17. Colorado Mountain Winefest is September 16, 2023.

Cost: General admission: $75. Non-drinker: $25. VIP: $275 (plus fees).

Fruita Fall Festival

The Fruita Fall Festival is an annual community event to celebrate the magic of autumn. There are a number of events throughout the weekend, including live music, a parade, 5K, cornhole tournament, and the What the Fest Brew Fest, which allows you to sample local beers from around Mesa County. The Fruita Fall Festival is a lively time that is fun for everyone.

Dates: September 22-23, 2023

Cost: Free to enter, but some events have a fee to participate.

Moon Farm Pumpkin Patch

For a classic pumpkin picking experience, head to Moon Farm Pumpkin Patch in Fruita. Highlighted events at Moon Farm Pumpkin Patch this fall include a vendor fair on September 30 and trick-or-treating on October 28, 2023.

Dates: Opens September 23, 2023.

Cost: Varies.

Candle Kitchen GJ

Candle Kitchen GJ is a custom candle making experience where you can choose from a variety of scents to craft the perfect formula. While it’s open year-round, fall is a great time to visit because you can take advantage of yummy seasonal scents like pumpkin and autumn leaves. Whether you’re looking for a fun date night or a location to host a group event, Candle Kitchen GJ is the place to go.

Dates: Daily

Cost: Custom candles are $16-30 depending on the size of the jar.

Couple in front of a pumpkin house at Studt Farm in Grand Junction.
The pumpkin house at Studt Farms is one of the best places in Grand Junction to take fall photos.

Where to Stay in Grand Junction in the Fall

Hotels

Grand Junction has a variety of hotels and motels to stay at during your fall trip. Whether you prefer boutique hotels or want to stay at a familiar chain to take advantage of loyalty programs, you can find something that fits your needs in Grand Junction. Generally, hotel prices are very affordable with plenty of options under $100, making Grand Junction a great budget-friendly travel destination.

Top Hotels in Grand Junction:

The Hotel Maverick in Grand Junction at twilight.
Hotel Maverick

Vacation Rentals

There are a variety of vacation rental options around Grand Junction ranging from in-law suites to entire homes. Grand Junction makes a great basecamp for digital nomads looking for outdoor adventure due to its recreation access and proximity to popular destinations like Moab and Telluride. Whether you stay for a week or a month, you’ll find plenty to do in Grand Junction.

If you’re looking to stay close to Colorado National Monument, then look for a vacation rental in the Redlands. There are no hotels in that area of Grand Junction, so a vacation rental will provide the best hiking access.

You can find Grand Junction vacation rentals on VRBO.

Camping in Grand Junction in the Fall

Experience the magic of the desert after dark with a good old fashioned camping trip. Grand Junction offers a range of camping options including developed campgrounds and nearby dispersed camping, so you can choose your own adventure while exploring the desert.

Campgrounds in Grand Junction

Saddlehorn Campground. The Saddlehorn Campground is located near the Visitor’s Center in Colorado National Monument and provides some of the best views of Grand Junction. Reservations for the Saddlehorn Campground can be made in advance on recreation.gov.

Season: March 27-October 16, 2023; April 1-October 23, 2024

Fees: $22/night

Rabbit Valley. Established campgrounds in Rabbit Valley are a new addition to the area. There are 5 campgrounds throughout the area that can accommodate different types of campers, from tents to vehicles up to 60 ft. Reservations for the campgrounds in Rabbit Valley can be made in advance on recreation.gov.

Season: Open through December 31, 2023

Fees: $20/night

North Fruita Desert Campground. If you’re coming to Grand Junction to mountain bike, then staying at the North Fruita Desert Campground is a no brainer. With ample access to some of the most flowy mountain biking trails in the Grand Valley, the North Fruita Desert Campground provides a convenient basecamp for adventure. Reservations can be made in advance on recreation.gov

Season: Open year-round.

Fees: $20/night

Dispersed Camping Around Grand Junction

If you’re looking for more privacy while camping then consider dispersed camping on public lands around Grand Junction. Dispersed camping is typically permitted in national forests and on BLM land, but certain areas have special restrictions. There are no amenities while dispersed camping so plan to be fully self-sufficient and be sure to pack out waste and leave your site better than you found it.

In recent years many of the dispersed camping areas around Grand Junction have turned into designated campsites and campgrounds (like Rabbit Valley and the North Fruita Desert). You’re going to need to drive out of town to find a reliable spot, but trust me, they’re out there! 

There is ample dispersed camping available on the Grand Mesa to take advantage of during prime leaf peeping conditions. Once you get off the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway you’ll find an intricate network of dirt roads that wind through Grand Mesa National Forest. Dispersed camping is permitted in the national forest, but be careful to respect private property in the area.

Woman in an orange floral dress and brown suede boots with a chunky heel runs down a dirt road lined with golden aspen trees on one of the best scenic drives in see fall colors in Colorado on the Grand Mesa.
There’s so much to explore on the Grand Mesa in the fall!

Where to Eat in Grand Junction

Grand Junction has a wide variety of dining options ranging from casual fare to high-end eateries. The following recommendations are based on my own experience dining in Grand Junction, and you can find other delicious restaurants depending on what you’re craving. I only included restaurants that are local to Grand Junction. You can find plenty of national chains and fast food options, but there are so many unique restaurants around town, in my opinion, there’s no need to eat at one.

For Brunch:

Dream Cafe. Whether you’re in the mood for classic breakfast fare or are looking to have a boozy brunch, Dream Cafe has you covered. Located on Main Street in downtown Grand Junction, Dream Cafe is one of the most popular restaurants in town for a brunch date. I highly recommend the cinnamon roll French toast for a decadently delicious start to your day!

Cafe Sol. Cafe Sol sources most of its organic ingredients locally and serves up a variety of fresh and tasty brunch options. The portions at Cafe Sol are hearty and satisfying, but the menu options remain true to the restaurant’s wholesome roots. I recommend having the Dutch baby pancakes, which are served hot and fresh in a cast iron pan. Cafe Sol also has a separate lunch menu with yummy salads and sandwiches.

An iced coffe, Dutch baby pancakes with potatoes, and a side of scrambled eggs.

For Coffee

Kiln Coffee Bar. Located on Main Street in downtown Grand Junction, Kiln is the premier local coffee house. Whether you’re in the mood for a pour-over or cold brew, you’re sure to get a tasty cup of coffee at Kiln. They even have a pumpkin spice latte during the fall to satisfy your inner basic witch!

For Baked Goods

Main Street Bagels. I grew up in New York, so I have high standards when it comes to a good bagel, but Main Street Bagels passes the test. They use locally sourced ingredients to make fresh bagels and pastries daily, including seasonal options throughout the fall (the pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are my favorite!). Main Street Bagels is the place to go for a coffee and breakfast sandwich on your way to the trail in the morning.

Main Street Bagels in Grand Junction in the fall.

Homestyle Bakery. If you’re looking for a traditional bakery with donuts, cookies, cakes, and pies, then head over to Homestyle Bakery. Everything is baked in-house daily, so once something is gone, it’s gone! Donuts are some of the most popular items, so be sure to arrive early for the best variety.

For Pizza

Pablo’s Pizza. Located on Main Street in downtown Grand Junction (with a second location in Fruita), Pablo’s Pizza serves up some of the best pies in Grand Junction. You can choose from a huge variety of unique pies, like the Brie-yonce, Thai-ger Heat, and Spudstacular!, or you can put your creativity to the test and build your own.

The Hot Tomato. If you’re in Fruita, then head down to The Hot Tomato for some of the best pizza in the Grand Valley. This local’s favorite offers specialty pizzas, build your own pies, and local brews. Come early because The Hot Tomato can get crowded, especially when the weather is nice!

For a Post-Hike Burger & Fries: 

Handlebar Taphouse. Located near the popular Lunch Loops trail system, Handlebar Taphouse serves up tasty burgers and local beers and ciders. Order at the counter and find a seat inside or upstairs on the rooftop patio. There are always good vibes and good eats at Handlebar Taphouse!

Ale House. Ale House is conveniently located in central Grand Junction. The menu features a wide variety of cuisines, including burgers, pastas, pizzas, and specialty entrees. If your go-to chain restaurants include Applebees or TGI Friday’s, you’ll love Ale House (same type of food, only fresher). Be sure to sit outside to take advantage of the nice fall weather and possibly hear live music.

For Chinese Takeout:

EC’s Asian Station. For the best Chinese takeout in Grand Junction head to EC’s Asian Station. While EC’s Asian Station is pricier than other Chinese restaurants in Grand Junction, they cook up classic dishes with fresh ingredients, so it doesn’t leave you feeling bloated and bogged down. My husband and I are frequent flyers at EC’s and it never disappoints!

For a Nice Dinner

Devil’s Kitchen. Located on the top floor of the Hotel Maverick, Devil’s Kitchen combines upscale ambiance with fresh and flavorful dishes. Dine al fresco and time your reservation with the sunset for stunning views of the Grand Mesa and Colorado National Monument.

Chicken dinner at Devil's Kitchen in Grand Junction.

Bin 707. Owned by James Beard Award nominated chef Josh Nirenberg, Bin 707 offers a cosmopolitan dining experience in the heart of downtown Grand Junction. Bin 707 (just “Bin” to locals), serves up high-end seasonal Colorado cuisine with a seemingly endless drink menu. Seating is first-come, first-serve so arrive early on the weekend.

For Italian Food:

Citrolas Italian Restaurant. Located right off of I-70 near the airport, Citrolas is a cozy hole in the wall restaurant that serves up authentic New York-style Italian cuisine. The food at Citrolas is hearty and delicious, with a wide range of classic options to satisfy every palate.

For Something Sweet

Graff Dairy. For delicious homemade soft serve ice cream, hit the drive through at Graff Dairy. Graff Dairy serves up cones, shakes, and a variety of other tasty treats. Don’t be dismayed if the line is long, the ice cream at Graff Dairy is worth the wait!

Vanilla soft serve ice cream with rainbow sprinkles in a cone.
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Where to Shop in Grand Junction

Grand Junction has a bustling Main Street and downtown area with an expansive list of stores and boutiques. You can also find big box stores and a mall in the I-70 business district area of Grand Junction. The most recent big additions to the Mesa Mall include Dillard’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and HomeGoods.

Here are just a few local shops in downtown Grand Junction to visit during your fall trip:

Woman in an orange floral dress dances on a dirt road surrounded by golden aspen trees on the Grand Mesa in the fall.

Enjoy Your Trip to Grand Junction in the Fall!

Other Colorado Fall Adventures You May Enjoy:

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