Western Colorado provides a supreme opportunity for outdoor adventurists to indulge in the beauty this state offers. Among the roughly 300 lakes on the Grand Mesa, and the multiple 14ers, it is hard to say that the 'Grand Valley Curse' is even a curse, but rather a blessing.

After all, who would want to leave the Western Slope when nature's charm rests right at our feet?

  • Colorado National Monument

    Grand Junction, Colo.
    'Lightning Moon' via Frank Daniels
    'Lightning Moon' via Frank Daniels
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    The Colorado National Monument in Grand Junction, serves as a perfect venue for hikers and photographers as nearly 40 trails lead visitors through the red rock canyons that decorate the American West.

  • Mt.Garfield

    Grand Junction, Colo.
    Leslie White
    Leslie White
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    The hike leading to the top of Mt.Garfield in Grand Junction, is one to check off your bucket list. Overlooking the Grand Valley, Mt. Garfield sits at roughly 5,000 ft. giving a new perspective to the familiar roadways and farmland.

  • Crystal Mill

    Marble, Colo.
    'The Old Mill at Crystal' via Frank Daniels
    'The Old Mill at Crystal' via Frank Daniels
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    Located just east of Marble, the Crystal Mill which was built in 1893, is one of the most photographed scenes in Colorado. This photogenic mill can be reached on an easy dirt trial, often traveled via Jeep and ATV.

  • Lost Lake

    Mesa, Colo.
    Tim Gray
    Tim Gray
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    If you are looking for a quick fishing trip on the Mesa, Lost Lake is a perfect place to throw out your line. To reach Lost Lake, fishermen must take a quick hike before reaching this turquoise lake.

  • Hanging Lake

    Glenwood Springs, Colo.
    Tracy Collier
    Tracy Collier
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    Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs is often a summer destination for tourists, but in order to avoid the busy summer crowds, this hike can also be done in the winter. During the cold months, the waterfall turns icy-blue as the lake, surrounded by glittering snowfall, allows hikers to escape to this winter wonderland.

  • Blue Mesa

    Gunnison, Colo.
    Tim Gray
    Tim Gray
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    As Colorado's largest lake, the Blue Mesa Reservoir, just outside of Gunnison, accommodates fishermen and boaters with nearly 96 miles of shoreline and numerous campsites.

  • Mount Sneffels

    Telluride, Colo.
    'Light on Mount Sneffels' via Frank Daniels
    'Light on Mount Sneffels' via Frank Daniels
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    Mount Sneffels is one of Colorado's 54 14ers. Mount Sneffels' features every imaginable "mountain" characteristic from it's ragged ridges to smooth slopes. Outdoorsmen at times appreciate it's magneficent beauty and dread it's climbing requirements.

  • Maroon Bells

    Aspen, Colo.
    'Maroon Bells Reflection' via Frank Daniels
    'Maroon Bells Reflection' via Frank Daniels
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    Named the most photographed mountains in North America, Maroon Bells in Aspen, is a breathtaking scene during all seasons. Motor vehicles have limited access, but visitors are able to take a bus tour through this vibrant stretch of mountains allowing riders to sit back and enjoy the ride.

  • Rifle Falls

    Rifle, Colo.
    Tracy Collier
    Tracy Collier
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    While passing through Rifle, Colo. plan to stop at Rifle Falls for an afternoon picnic and short hike where children can explore the caves and waterfalls surrounding this peaceful area.

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