Grand Junction Colorado History and RecreationGrand Junction Colorado, incorporated in 1882 as a Home Rule Municipality, is the county seat of Mesa County, Colorado and the largest city on the Western Slope of Colorado. Located at 4,600 ft this city has one of the mildest climates in Colorado. With a city population of over 46,000 people, and over 140,000 people living in Mesa County. Located in the middle of the Grand Valley, Grand Junction Colorado has a history of agriculture and cattle, and as a hub to the surrounding area. Because of the convergence of the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers flowing through this desert valley one of the first things early settlers did was create canals throughout the valley for irrigation. With its long growing season and now water the area quickly grew and became known for its excellent peaches and apples. Always a boom and bust town the economy is currently much more stable than in the past with Grand Junction turning into a destination area for retired people and being much more diverse. Lately with the energy prices increasing there has been a tremendous increase in drilling around Grand Junction Colorado and its surrounding area. There is much concern over the long term effects of this on public lands and to wildlife in particular migrating deer and elk herds. Being close to high country and Utah desert is probably Grand Junctions greatest benefit. With so many outdoor activities and a regional airport in town there are few areas with so much to offer so close. From back country hiking, alpine skiing, cross country skiing, golf, fishing, four wheeling, mountain biking, motorcycling, rafting, dirt biking and hunting, there is always something to do year round. With the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers flowing through the Grand Valley rafting and kayaking is very popular. With leisurely float trips in the valley to trips starting in Loma and ending in Moab Utah through class 3 and 4 rapids. Also the Colorado National Monument is about a 10 minute drive from Grand Junction to the entrance of the Monument. Lots of hiking trails, camping and beautiful slick rock canyons. Grand Junction has one of the nicest main streets that is setup like a park. It is a pleasure to walk around with art displays and many restaurants in a historical setting with very well kept flowers and trees. Grand Junction Colorado has also grown quite popular as a wine grape producing area and many wineries have sprouted up as a result. And yes, Palisade peaches are still some of the best you will ever eat. Get a map here for directions and different area views. For more information on Grand Junction visit the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce. 50% OFF on Hike, Camp, Climb & Ski Gear - REI-OUTLET
Palisade Colorado is a quiet little town located at the east end of the Grand Valley on the Colorado River. Palisade gets it's name from the steep slopes of the Bookcliff range located very close to town. There are also great views of the Grand Mesa from here as well. Famous for it's peaches and other fruits like apples, pears, plums and now as a grower of grapes for making wines at area wineries and sold through out the country. For more information contact the Palisade Chamber of Commerce.
Fruita Colorado, located west of Grand Junction was named for all the fruit trees that covered this area in the past. Fruita has become quit popular with the mountain bikers because of many trails located here like the famous Kokopelli Trail and the Bookcliff Mountain Bike Trails. The entrance of the Colorado National Monument is located just a few miles from here and several Dinosaur points of interest are here as well. For more information visit the Fruita Chamber of Commerce.
Western Colorado Towns
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Located from east to west in the same valley are the towns of Palisade, Clifton, Fruita, Loma and Mack. 
Sugar beets, corn, amber cane, sweet potatoes, all grew well making Grand Junction grow as it shipped produce to other towns.
