You know all there is know about Colorado’s majestic mountains, pretty plains, and colorful cities, but did you know that there is a whole other side to the Centennial State that you are missing? Just on the “other” side of our purple mountains lies the Western Slope; the west side of the Continental Divide that houses Montrose, Gunnison, and this often overlooked Colorado city:

Home to near 60,000 residents, the town of Grand Junction is the Western Slope's most populous area that offers incredible views, fare, and unique opportunities galore!
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Named for the its location at the junction of the Colorado and Gunnison rivers, the Grand Junction area was once occupied primarily by Ute people until being settled by European-American farmers in the 1880s.
Flickr/Rennett Stowe
Today, Grand Junction is known for being the location of Colorado Mesa University, but there is so much more to the city, (which is the 15th most populous community in the state), than just this institute.
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What is there to do in this western Colorado oasis? For starters, there is a charming downtown area chock full of delicious restaurants and unique shopping...
Flickr/jimmy thomas

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...numerous one-of-a-kind wineries in and around the city...
Grand Junction Visitor & Convention Bureau
Pictured is Grand Junction's Whitewater Hill Vineyards.
...and quite possibly some of the best outdoor recreation in the state!
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
Epic biking, hiking, fishing, and rafting is right at your fingertips in Grand Junction!
Need we mention that Grand Junction is also home to the jaw-dropping Colorado National Monument?
Flickr/Erik Anestad
Seriously; you cannot call yourself a true Coloradan until you have gazed out into these stunning red mesas.
For more information on Grand Junction, or to plan your trip, please visit the Grand Junction Visitor & Convention Bureau's website.
Flickr/Karah Levely-Rinaldi

In addition to visiting Grand Junction this year, check out The 24 Places You Should Go In Colorado In 2017!

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