Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Grand Junction, Colorado
Grand Junction sits at the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison rivers, surrounded by high desert terrain that makes for genuinely varied hiking year-round.
100 spotsUpdated weeklyFree to access
View on mapHiking · 100 spots
Grand Junction sits at the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison rivers, surrounded by high desert terrain that makes for genuinely varied hiking year-round. The 294 listed trails in and around the city range from flat, paved multi-use paths like the Riverside Parkway MUP and the Riverfront Trail at Corn Lake to more technical canyon routes like No Thoroughfare Canyon and the narrow squeeze of Lemon Squeezer Trail. Beginners and families tend to gravitate toward Miramonte Trail, which is rated easy, while hikers looking for something with more elevation and exposure can step up to Eagle's Wing Trail at moderate difficulty. The Old Spanish Trail and Price Ditch Trail add historical context to the landscape if that matters to you. What makes Grand Junction practical for hikers is the sheer density of accessible trailheads close to town — trails like 1st Street Trail and the 6 & 50 Trail put you on dirt within minutes of downtown. Summer heat is real here, with temperatures regularly pushing past 95°F in July and August, so the trail network rewards early risers. Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons, and mild winters mean many lower-elevation routes stay hikeable most of the year.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time of year to hike around Grand Junction?
March through May and September through November are the sweet spots. Daytime temperatures sit in the 60s and 70s, the desert vegetation is at its best in spring, and fall brings clear skies and cooler canyon air. Summer hiking is doable but demands very early starts — most experienced locals are back at the trailhead by 10 a.m. from June through August.
What gear should I bring for a day hike here?
Sun protection is non-negotiable — hat, sunscreen, and UV-blocking layers matter more here than in most Colorado destinations because the high desert offers almost no shade on many trails. Carry more water than you think you need; a minimum of 1 liter per hour is a reasonable baseline in warm weather. Sturdy trail shoes with good grip help on rocky surfaces like those found along No Thoroughfare Canyon Route, though well-maintained paths like the Riverside Parkway MUP are fine in athletic shoes.
Are there easy trails suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes, several. Miramonte Trail is listed as easy and works well for newer hikers or families. The Riverfront Trail at Corn Lake and the Riverside Parkway MUP are flat, accessible routes close to the river that are good for all ages and fitness levels. These trails also tend to have parking and amenities nearby, which helps when hiking with kids.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Dogs are permitted on many trails in the Grand Junction area, but rules vary by land management unit. Trails on Colorado Canyons National Conservation Area land, which includes No Thoroughfare Canyon, generally require dogs to be on leash. Check the specific trailhead signage before you go, and always carry water for your dog — the rocky, sun-exposed terrain heats up fast.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike these trails?
Most trails in the immediate Grand Junction area do not require a permit for day hiking. Trails that fall within Colorado National Monument — which borders the city — require a park entrance fee, currently collected at the monument's entrance stations. Trails on BLM land like those in the McInnis Canyons area are generally free to access. It is worth confirming current fee requirements on the relevant agency website before your visit, as these can change.
