Grand Junction Travelers Love These Colorado Summer Escapes

Western Colorado summers can sizzle, but they can also be surprisingly short. Some of the Western Slopes' most spectacular destinations are at their best right now.

From the towering sandstone canyons of Colorado National Monument to the turquoise waters of Blue Lakes beneath Mount Sneffels, Western Colorado is home to landscapes that draw visitors from around the world. Here are ten destinations worth a weekend this summer.

LOOK: 10 Western Colorado Places You Need to See This Summer

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

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Why Western Colorado Is Built for Summer Adventures

Grand Junction's Legendary Serpent’s Trail Hits 105 Years — TSM GJ WA

Western Colorado offers an unmatched combination of mountain escapes, desert landscapes, scenic byways, and cooler high-elevation retreats. Visitors can explore hundreds of lakes atop Grand Mesa, hike through alpine terrain near Telluride, or enjoy the red-rock scenery of Colorado National Monument, all within a few hours' drive.

Which Western Colorado Destinations Top Most Bucket Lists?

Summer adventure seekers in Colorado are often headed to the Maroon Bells, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Hanging Lake, or the Blue Lake Trails over Telluride before fall arrives. These places are often at the top of travel wish lists thanks to their iconic scenery, geology, and proximity to world-class recreation opportunities.

The Colorado Trail's Best Western Colorado Sections

10 Western Colorado Places You Need to See This Summer — Canva

Sections of the Colorado Trail that cross the Western Slope near the San Juan Mountains might be the most scenic places you can visit during the summer months. If you want your summer road trip to deliver alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and panoramic views of 13er and 14er mountains. Sections of the Colorado Trail on my own bucket list include the Molas Pass and Collegiate West routes, which are ranked by many to be among the most scenic sections the trail has to offer.

LOOK: 100 Photos: What Summer Fun Looks Like In Western Colorado

We asked you to share your favorite photo from your phone that captures the summer of 2022 on the Western Slope. Scroll on to enjoy over 100 images showing friends, families, and beautiful landscapes only found here in Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

KEEP COOL: Grand Junction Pools and Splash Pads

When Grand Junction temperatures climb into the 90s and triple digits, families start looking for affordable ways to stay cool without leaving town. Fortunately, Grand Valley residents have several options, from the Olympic-sized Lincoln Park-Moyer Pool to the lazy river at the Fruita Community Center and the free splash pad at Dos Rios Park.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

NEXT: Colorado’s Top Towns for Conservative Family Living

If your view of Colorado is shaped mostly by Denver’s growth and progressive policies, you’re only seeing part of the picture. Head to towns like Fruita or Rifle, and you’ll find close-knit communities, busy local events, and a strong sense of independence. Take a look at Colorado’s more conservative-leaning areas based on voting data from roadsnacks.com.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

Source: 10 Beautiful Colorado Places Worth the Drive This Summer

Filed Under: Colorado Outdoors, Around Colorado

Categories: Articles, Colorado News, Colorado Local