Vega State Park - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

The park offers hiking and biking trails, abundant wildlife, and a backcountry camping area. There are also several lakes in the park, perfect for fishing, swimming, or relaxing. The park also has a rock-climbing place for those looking for a more challenging adventure. 

Other activities include ranger-led hikes, stargazing nights, kayak tours, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Vega State Park was established in 1937, and the park covers an area of 1,769 acres and features a variety of scenic landscapes, including alpine meadows, forests, lakes, and streams.

The first people to inhabit the area now known as Vega State Park were the Ute tribe. The Ute used the place for hunting and gathering. The first settlers in the area were ranchers who arrived in the late 1800s. They used the land for grazing their cattle. In 1909, the state of Colorado purchased the land from the ranchers and established Vega State Park.
Visitors to Vega State Park can enjoy various activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, picnicking, canoeing, and horseback riding. The park also offers ranger-led programs, such as nature hikes and night sky observation sessions.

Fall is the ideal time of year for hiking and camping, and the changing colors of the leaves create a scenic landscape. During this time of year, the park is also less crowded. 

Winter is also a beautiful time at Vega State Park, as the snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

1. Pack your hiking shoes! There are over 20 miles of trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
2. Mesas, canyons, and buttes abound in Vega State Park, so be prepared for some hiking.
3. The park is open year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather for hiking and camping.
4. Plenty of campsites are available, but reservations are recommended during peak season.
5. Bring plenty of water and snacks with you, as there are no concession stands at the park.
6. Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace of your visit. 

1. Vega State Park was established in 1909, making it one of the oldest state parks in Colorado.
2. Vega State Park is home to more than 200 species of birds, making it a great destination for birdwatching.
3. The park has more than 100 miles of trails, making it perfect for hikers of all levels.
4. Vega State Park is home to the largest collection of petroglyphs in Colorado.
5. The park also has a dark sky preserve, which makes it ideal for stargazing.
6. Vega State Park is one of the busiest state parks in Colorado, with more than 1 million visitors each year.
7. It is home to the largest natural lake in Colorado, Grand Lake.

The maximum time visitors can stay in Vega State Park is 14 days. This rule is in place to help preserve the park's natural beauty and prevent overcrowding.

To get to Vega State Park, take I-70 west from Denver for about 2.5 hours. Next, take exit 62 for Colorado 141 toward Fruita/Grand Junction. After that, turn left onto CO-141 S/E MAIN ST and continue to follow CO-141 S for 13 miles. Finally, turn right at W Park Dr, and the destination will be on the left. NOTE: If you are coming from the east on I-70, take exit 49 and follow signs for US-6 E/Colfax Ave. Then turn right onto US-6 E/Colfax Ave and continue to follow US-6 E. After that, take the 1st right after passing Quandary Peak Rd onto CR 17, and the destination will be on the left in 6 miles.

The fee for single-day use is $7 per vehicle, and annual passes are also available for $70. 

The park is open from 6 AM to 10 PM. during the winter season, but you should check with local authorities before visiting due to possible changes in hours that may occur at any time!