Grand Junction, the largest city in western Colorado, sits at the confluence of the Colorado River and Gunnison River. It’s a major fruit growing region, and an area increasingly known for its wineries. The spectacular Colorado National Monument, a unique series of canyons and mesas, overlooks the city on the west. The best options for running in Grand Junction center on trails along the Colorado River.
The best place to run in Grand Junction is the Riverfront Trail, a paved multi-use path along the Colorado River. There are also some good running options in James Robb Colorado River State Park, which is comprised of five non-contiguous sections. For a hilly but spectacular run, choose a section of the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive in Colorado National Monument, considered one of the most spectacular drives in the United States (note: no shoulder!). Trail runners will delight in the many hiking trails in the area.
Note: Winters are cold and can be snowy/icy. Summers are very hot and dry, with daytime temps in the mid-90s.
