Construction is underway at Grand Junction, Colorado's Blue Heron boat ramp. Contrary to previous statements from the City of Grand Junction, the parking area will be temporarily closed.

Don't let this discourage you from using the trail that passes the parking lot. The bike path will remain open.

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Original Statement From The City of Grand Junction

On December 8, 2022, The Daily Sentinel reported the existing boat ramp would be closed during the project, but the parking lot would remain open. On December 20, 2022, the city announced due to safety concerns, it was necessary to close the parking lot.

Redlands Parkway Boat Launch map
Google Maps / Canva
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Construction at The Redlands Parkway Boat Ramp/Blue Heron

A press release from the City of Grand Junction indicated the current boat ramp, which is unpaved, can sometimes be a challenge to navigate while putting in and taking out of the Colorado River. In addition, the pedestrian ramp will improve access to the area known as “the beach” at Blue Heron.

Access to the beach is being improved for those who want access to the river for rafting, paddleboarding, and kayaking, to play fetch with their dogs, or simply recreate at the water’s edge.” - gjcity.org

The press release adds that work on the ramps is expected to take place during the day on weekdays and finish in the spring of 2023.

The new ramps will improve access to the river for the public as well as emergency services.” - gjcity.org

A Change Of Plans

A statement from the City of Grand Junction posted on December 20, 2022, states:

Due to concerns related to safety, the parking area at Redland Parkway Boat Ramp/Blue Heron is fully closed to the public beginning today, December 20, 2022. The public may use the bike path that passes the parking lot; however access into the lot is not permitted.

Closure for construction is expected to continue until late February. We will continue to update the public as construction continues through the winter.

 

WORTH THE TRIP: Hiking Liberty Cap Trail in Grand Junction

It was really simple to find as I put the location into GPS and it connects immediately, although there isn't a ton of parking so try to be respectful of others trying to use the trail.

During my hike, I decided to walk around and try to take lots of beautiful photos as I knew this would probably be my last hike for a while. Here are some of the shots I got this past weekend on my hike.

WORTH THE TRIP: Take the Amazing Hike at Rifle Falls

LOCAL HIKE: Grand Junction's Ribbon Trail Offers Views for Days

For those that want to see some great scenery but don't want to work for it, the Ribbon Trail is the perfect destination hike for non-hikers.

The Ribbon Trail Hike itself is about 7 miles in length and quite strenuous. But, the first part of the trail from the upper trailhead to Ribbon Rock is not difficult at all. The hike is about 1/4 mile and takes you to some pretty incredible scenery in western Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Zane Mathews

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