Grand Valley - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

For outdoor enthusiasts, there's hiking, mountain biking, and camping in the summer, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. For starters, Grand Valley is home to several National Parks and Monuments, including the Colorado National Monument and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. It is also home to a number of art galleries and museums. The area also has several wineries and breweries.

The area was once home to the Ute people, who lived here for centuries before the first European settlers arrived. The first settlers were attracted to the area by the promise of gold and silver mining. However, the mining boom didn't last long, and many of the settlers left the area. In the early 1900s, agriculture became an important industry in Grand Valley, and it remains so today. The area is also known for its many wineries and fruit farms. In recent years, tourism has become an important part of the economy as well.

Summer is generally considered the best time to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny. The days are long, allowing for plenty of time to hike, bike, or simply enjoy a Picnic in the Park. Fall is also a great time to visit Grand Valley, as the leaves begin to change color and the air becomes crisp and refreshing. Winter can be cold, but it's also a great time for skiing and snowboarding.

1. Because of the high altitude, it's important to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.

2.  Dress for the weather. Grand Valley is located in a high desert climate, so be sure to dress for the weather. In summer, daytime temperatures can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so light, loose-fitting clothing is a must. In winter, temperatures can dip below freezing, so be sure to pack warm clothing.

3. Bring comfortable walking shoes. There is a lot of ground to cover in Grand Valley, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. 

    

1. Located in the heart of the Colorado River Valley, Bordered by the Book Cliffs to the north and the Colorado River to the south.

2. The region's mild climate and ample sunshine make it ideal for growing fruits and vegetables, and the valley is famous for its sweet melons and succulent peaches.

3. Grand Valley is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Dinosaur National Monument, which preserves the fossilized remains of dinosaurs that lived in the area millions of years ago.

4. It is home to a variety of wildlife and many more rare plant species.

5. Grand Valley is also home to several annual events such as Palisade's Bluegrass & Roots Festival and Grand Junction's Country Jam Music Festival.

    

The amount of time that you can spend in the area will be influenced by the season, the activities that you plan on undertaking, and the accommodations that you have arranged. In general, however, most visitors to Grand Valley find that a week is sufficient time to explore the area and experience all that it has to offer. 

There are a few different ways to reach Grand Valley depending on where you are coming from. If you are coming from the north, you can take I-70 east to Exit 42. This will put you on Highway 340, which you can follow until it reaches Grand Junction. From there, you can take US-50 east until you reach Grand Valley. If you are coming from the south, you can take US-50 west until you reach Delta. From Delta, you can take Highway 92 north until it reaches Grand Junction. From there, you can take US-50 east until you reach Grand Valley.

There is no entrance fee to access the majority of these public lands, but there are some exceptions for monuments and national parks. 

Grand Valley is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.