Mount Garfield - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Mount Garfield

Mount Garfield is a mesa located west of the city of Grand Junction and east of the Colorado National Monument. It is one of the largest mesas in this County and covers an area of approximately 1,500 acres. It is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including several species of cactus, yucca, and sagebrush. Coyotes, deer, and pronghorn can also be found on the mesa. Visitors can hike to the top of the mesa or take a scenic drive along its winding roads.

Hotels near Mount Garfield

Hotels to stay near Mount Garfield

Things to Do at Mount Garfield

Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery by hiking or biking through the many trails. The area is also home to a number of archaeological sites, so be sure to visit them if you're interested in history. If you're looking for a real adventure, you can even go whitewater rafting on the Colorado River. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Fishing licenses are required for anyone wishing to fish in the lakes or streams.

Activities Around

History of Mount Garfield

In 1883, a man named Elias Garfield discovered a rich vein of gold on the top of what is now known as Mount Garfield. He staked a claim and started mining the gold, which drew the attention of other prospectors. Soon, a small village had sprung up at the base of the mountain, and the population continued to grow as more and more people came in search of gold. However, the gold veins eventually ran dry, and by the early 1900s, most of the villagers had left in search of greener pastures. Today, Mount Garfield is a popular hiking spot, and its rich history continues to draw visitors from all over.

Best Time to Visit Mount Garfield

The best time to visit Mount Garfield is during the summer months when the weather is warm and dry.  Hiking and camping are popular activities during this time of year.

Tips for Visiting Mount Garfield

  1. Get there early. The best time to visit Mount Garfield is early in the morning, when the air is still and the views are unobstructed.
  2. Dress in layers. The temperature can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the weather conditions. 
  3. Wear comfortable shoes. There's a lot of walking involved in exploring Mount Garfield, so make sure you wear shoes that won't rub or blister.
  4. Pack a lunch. There are no food facilities at Mount Garfield, so you'll need to bring your own food and snacks.
  5.  Be aware of your surroundings. The trail can be narrow in places, and there are drop-offs on both sides. Pay attention to where you are walking and don’t get too close to the edge.
  6. pack out what you pack in. There are no garbage cans on the trail, so whatever you bring with you will need to be carried back out again. Make sure to pack out all of your trash and recyclables.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Mount Garfield

  1.  Mount Garfield has been a site of human habitation for at least 10,000 years. 
  2. The first recorded exploration of the mesa was conducted by members of the Dominguez-Escalante expedition in 1776.
  3.  The Mesa Verde branch of the Anasazi Indians lived on Mount Garfield from around 1200 CE to 1300 CE.
  4. The name "Garfield" was given to the mountain by polled cattlemen in 1883, after United States President James A. Garfield. 
  5. Mount Garfield has a number of interesting features, including a large number of fossils, petroglyphs, and pottery shards that have been found in the area.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Mount Garfield

The maximum time that you are allowed to spend in Mount Garfield is three days. After that, you must leave the area for at least 24 hours. This rule is in place to protect the natural beauty of the mesa and to ensure that everyone has a chance to enjoy it.

How to Reach Mount Garfield

There are two ways to get to the trailhead. The official way is to exit I-70 in the town of Palisade onto 37 3/10 Rd (I love the road naming convention in the Grand Valley). About one hundred yards south of I-70 you will cross over an irrigation ditch. Make an immediate right (west) on G 7/10 Rd. Go about a mile or so west on G 7/10 Rd until you are forced to make a right (north). Head north to a tunnel that leads under I-70. The trailhead is just on the north side of I-70.

Entrance Fee of Mount Garfield

There is no entrance fee to visit Mount Garfield in Mesa County, Colorado. However, there are certain areas that require a permit for access, such as the backcountry or overnight camping.

Opening Hours of Mount Garfield

Mount Garfield is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. In the summer, the mountain is open from 6am to 10pm, while in the winter it is open from 8am to 6pm.

Attractions Near Mount Garfield

No Thoroughfare Canyon

No Thoroughfare Canyon

16.91km from Mount Garfield

No Thoroughfare Canyon is a canyon located in Mesa County, Colorado. The canyon is named for its dead-end shape - there is no way through it. It is a popular hiking destination because of its unique geology and its scenic views. The canyon is made up of red sandstone that has been eroded over time by wind and water. The resulting cliffs and columns are remarkably beautiful. Hikers can explore the canyon on their own or take guided tours.

Powderhorn Mountain Resort

Powderhorn Mountain Resort

23.23km from Mount Garfield

Powderhorn Mountain Resort is a ski area located in Mesa County, Colorado. The resort is situated on the western flank of Powderhorn Mesa and offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. In addition to its excellent skiing and snowboarding facilities, the resort also offers a variety of other activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and golf. The resort is situated on over 1,600 acres of land.

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway

24.43km from Mount Garfield

The Grand Mesa National Scenic Byway is a 63-mile National Scenic Byway, National Forest Scenic Byway, and Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway located in Delta and Mesa counties, Colorado, USA. The byway traverses Grand Mesa, the most extensive flat-topped mountain on Earth, and reaches an elevation of 10,849 feet . The byway comprises Colorado State Highway 65 from Cedaredge to Interstate 70 Exit 49 and Forest Service Road 100 to the Land's End Observatory.

Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument

25.67km from Mount Garfield

Colorado National Monument is a breathtaking sight, located in western Colorado. The area is known for its dramatic red rock formations, canyons, and mesas. Visitors can explore the monument by hiking, biking, or driving the scenic Rim Rock Drive. There are also several camping and picnicking areas available. In addition to its natural beauty, Colorado National Monument is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, coyotes, and eagles.

Monument Canyon

Monument Canyon

27.06km from Mount Garfield

Monument Canyon is a geological and archaeological wonder located in Mesa County. Over millions of years, wind and water have carved out a deep canyon in the sandstone MesaVerde formation. today, the canyon is home to a variety of plants and animals, as well as some amazing views. Visitors can hike to the top of the canyon or take a jeep tour. There are also a number of camping sites in the area.

Independence Monument

Independence Monument

27.17km from Mount Garfield

The monument is located on top of a hill near the city of Grand Junction and can be seen from many points in the area. It was dedicated on July 4, 1935, to commemorate the centennial of Colorado's statehood. The monument is made of white granite and is 195 feet high. A winding road leads to the top of the hill, where visitors can explore the monument and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.

Discover More Attractions in Mesa County, Home of Mount Garfield

Mesa County

Mesa County

16 attractions

Mesa County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and camping in the beautiful landscape. In the winter, the county comes alive with skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Mesa County is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including Mesa Verde National Park and the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway.

Location of Mount Garfield

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