Day Trips from Grand Junction
← All Grand Junction day tripsDay Trips from Grand Junction: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Grand Junction, CO. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Grand Junction
Sunset View
CO 81415, USA
Just 1 hr 39 min from Grand Junction, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Ute Canyon View
Grand Junction, CO 81507
Just 24 min from Grand Junction, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Book Cliffs View
CO 81507, USA
Just 29 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Grand Mesa Scenic Byway
Cedaredge, CO 81413
Just 1 hr 9 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Sunshine Mountain Scenic Overview
Telluride, CO 81435
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Red Canyon Overlook
Grand Junction, CO 81507
Just 23 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars by 192 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Red Mountain Overlook
CO 81432, USA
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
San Juan Mountains Scenic View
Ridgway, CO 81432
Just 1 hr 48 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars by 121 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Grand View
Grand Junction, CO 81507
Just 31 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars by 246 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Coke Ovens Overlook
Fruita, CO 81521
Just 36 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars by 144 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Hwy 128 Scenic Byway
Cisco, UT 84515
Just 57 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic
Interstate 70, US-6
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Grand Junction, rated 4.8 stars by 815 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Grand Junction
What are the best scenic drives near Grand Junction, CO?
The best scenic drives near Grand Junction include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Grand Junction?
Most scenic drives near Grand Junction range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Grand Junction?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Grand Junction, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Grand Junction?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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