Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway

Colorado

National Scenic Byway

Map

Byway Details

Designation
National Scenic Byway
Length
62 mi in Colorado

About Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway

The Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway is a 61.5-mile drive in western Colorado that carries three designations: National Scenic Byway, Colorado State Scenic Byway and National Forest Scenic Byway. Part of the route crosses national forest land, and the town of Cedaredge sits along the way. At just over 61 miles, it makes a substantial road trip. Cedaredge is a natural point to start, finish or break up the drive. Late spring and early fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from the nearby Palisade weather station, at about 4,750 feet, show May highs around 76°F and September highs around 81°F, with lows in the 50s. Plenty sits close to the road. Lands End Road is a short hike, and Land's End Wall is a climbing area. Spruce Grove Campground and Jumbo Lake Campground offer places to stay. Surface Creek, about half a mile off the route, is a canoeing spot.

Scenic byway data: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration

Facts about this place

When to go

Best time to go: Apr–May. The mildest months here, with typical highs of 66–76°F and lows of 40–50°F.

Typical monthly averages (not a forecast) from the Palisade, CO weather station, 6 mi away. High / low in °F, and days with snow.

  1. Jan40° high21° low2 days with snow
  2. Feb47° high26° low2 days with snow
  3. Mar58° high34° low1 days with snow
  4. Apr66° high40° low
  5. May76° high50° low
  6. Jun87° high58° low
  7. Jul93° high65° low
  8. Aug90° high63° low
  9. Sep81° high55° low
  10. Oct67° high42° low
  11. Nov53° high31° low1 days with snow
  12. Dec41° high22° low2 days with snow

Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020

Where it is

Towns along the route
Cedaredge

Source: USGS GNIS populated places

Nearby

Source: Roamze catalog (indexable pages within 2 miles of the route, PostGIS distance)