Everyone knows about Colorado’s mountains and exciting Front Range area, but did you know that the Centennial State is home to a wine country that is as lovely as it is delicious? If you have yet to experience Colorado’s colorful Western Slope, it’s time to gas up the car and hit the road on this epic one-day road trip.
1. Gateway
There is no better way to begin this road trip than with a visit to the town of Gateway! Located southwest of Grand Junction, Gateway is a quaint and quiet town that is home to a tiny general store, cafe, and a small stretch of the unforgettable Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway.
2. Grand Mesa (Grand Junction)
Welcome to the largest and most grand of mesas in Colorado, aptly named Grand Mesa! Located near Grand Junction, Grand Mesa spans a whopping 40 miles and boasts more than 300 lakes and reservoirs. (Need we also mention that it isn't too hard on the eyes?)
3. Palisade
Wine. Peaches. Charming bed and breakfasts. The gang is ALL here in Palisade! Telling you about it isn't enough to give you the full picture, so let's stop at some of the best attractions, shall we?
4. Sage Creations Organic Farm (Palisade)
Talk about picturesque: Sage Creations Organic Farm is a small family-owned farm that turns out three different species of lavender on 3-acres of their farm. Whether you pick your own bundle or purchase from their farm stand, you are sure to find the highest quality of lavender at this must-visit gem on the Western Slope!
5. Carlson Vineyards (Palisade)
What is a trip to Colorado wine country if you don't actually stop and sample some of the wine?!
Situated in the heart of Palisade is that of Carlson Vineyards, which is described as being a "family-owned winery [that] is focused on producing premium wines in the heart of Colorado's wine country." Established in the early 1980s, Carlson Vineyards has a long-standing tradition for being one of the best wineries in the state, earning countless awards and accolades for not only the wine itself but also for the service and setting.
6. Book Cliffs (Mesa County)
Located just outside of Palisade lies the jaw-dropping Book Cliffs; a series of mountains and Cretaceous sandstone cliffs that span a whopping 200 miles from Palisade to Helper, Utah! (Isn't this the perfect way to end a wonderful road trip?!)
For an interactive map of this scenic trip, click here .
You can easily adjust this route so you can hop in wherever is closest and most convenient for you - just drag and drop the locations in the sidebar on the left to create your own customized route!
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