Grand Junction, CO 6-Day Adventure with Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Day 1: Exploring Grand Junction

Grand Junction, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Main Street Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the charming Main Street Cafe, known for its hearty omelettes and freshly brewed coffee.
Main Street Cafe is located in downtown Grand Junction, easily accessible by foot.
$12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Colorado National Monument

Embark on a scenic drive through Colorado National Monument, marvel at the red rock formations, and take a short hike to enjoy breathtaking views of the canyons.
Colorado National Monument entrance is a 10-minute drive from downtown Grand Junction.
$25 (per vehicle), 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bin 707 Foodbar

Head to Bin 707 Foodbar for a farm-to-table dining experience, featuring seasonal ingredients and creative dishes.
Bin 707 Foodbar is located in downtown Grand Junction, a short drive from the Colorado National Monument.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Downtown Art Galleries

Stroll through the vibrant art galleries in downtown Grand Junction, showcasing local and regional works of art.
The art galleries are within walking distance from Bin 707 Foodbar.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Il Bistro Italiano

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Il Bistro Italiano, known for its homemade pasta and cozy ambiance.
Il Bistro Italiano is located in downtown Grand Junction, perfect for a relaxing evening meal.
$30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Black Canyon of the Gunnison, CO

8:00AM

Drive to Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Embark on a scenic drive to the awe-inspiring Black Canyon of the Gunnison, known for its dramatic cliffs and steep narrow canyon walls.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Grand Junction.
Gas Money, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore South Rim

Start your exploration of Black Canyon from the South Rim, where you can marvel at the deep canyons and enjoy panoramic views of the Gunnison River below.
The South Rim Visitor Center is the starting point for various overlooks and hiking trails.
$25 (per vehicle), 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Gunnison Point

Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch at Gunnison Point, overlooking the breathtaking vistas of the canyon and the winding river below.
Gunnison Point has picnic areas with stunning views accessible by short walks from parking lots.
Picnic supplies, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hike Oak Flat Loop Trail

Embark on the moderate Oak Flat Loop Trail, offering a closer look at the unique geological features and vegetation of the Black Canyon.
The trailhead for Oak Flat Loop is near Gunnison Point, providing a scenic hike through the canyon's flora.
Free, 1-2 hours

4:30PM

Scenic Drive to North Rim

Take a scenic drive to the North Rim of the canyon for a different perspective of the dramatic cliffs and rock formations.
The North Rim is accessible by vehicle and offers additional viewpoints for stunning canyon vistas.
Gas Money, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Rigg's Highline

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Rigg's Highline, a local eatery known for its delicious comfort food and casual dining atmosphere.
Rigg's Highline is located near Black Canyon of the Gunnison, providing a satisfying end to your day of exploration.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Wine Tasting in Palisade

Palisade, CO

9:00AM

Drive to Palisade

Start your day by driving to the nearby town of Palisade, known for its vineyards and orchards.
Palisade is a 20-minute drive from Grand Junction via I-70 E.
Gas Money, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Wine Tasting at Talon Winery

Enjoy a wine tasting experience at Talon Winery, sampling a variety of locally produced wines amidst beautiful vineyard views.
Talon Winery is a short drive from downtown Palisade.
$20, 1-2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Inari's Bistro

Savor a gourmet lunch at Inari's Bistro, offering a diverse menu of fresh and flavorful dishes.
Inari's Bistro is located in the heart of Palisade, a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
$25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Peach Street Distillers

Visit Peach Street Distillers for a tour and tasting of their handcrafted spirits, including whiskey, gin, and brandy.
Peach Street Distillers is a short walk from Inari's Bistro.
$15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Palisade Riverbend Park

Unwind at Palisade Riverbend Park, a peaceful riverside park ideal for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment by the water.
Palisade Riverbend Park is a short drive from Peach Street Distillers.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at 626 on Rood

Indulge in a fine dining experience at 626 on Rood, known for its sophisticated ambiance and innovative culinary creations.
626 on Rood is located in downtown Grand Junction, a relaxing drive back from Palisade.
$40, 2 hours
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Day 4: Hiking in Ouray

Ouray, CO

8:00AM

Drive to Ouray

Embark on a scenic drive to the charming mountain town of Ouray, known as the 'Switzerland of America' for its stunning alpine scenery.
Ouray is approximately a 2-hour drive from Grand Junction via US-50 E and US-550 S.
Gas Money, 2 hours

10:30AM

Hike to Box Canyon Falls

Begin your day with a hike to Box Canyon Falls, a magnificent 285-foot waterfall nestled in a narrow canyon, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.
Box Canyon Falls is a short drive from downtown Ouray.
$10, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee

Enjoy a light lunch at Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee, a cozy café known for its delicious sandwiches and artisanal chocolates.
Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee is located in downtown Ouray, perfect for a relaxing break.
$15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Ouray Hot Springs Pool

Relax and rejuvenate at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, a natural geothermal hot springs complex surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool is a short walk from downtown Ouray.
$20, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Main Street Shops

Take a leisurely stroll along Main Street in Ouray, browsing unique shops offering locally made goods and souvenirs.
The Main Street shops are conveniently located in downtown Ouray near the hot springs.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bon Ton Restaurant

Dine at the historic Bon Ton Restaurant, a local favorite for its classic American cuisine and Old West hospitality.
Bon Ton Restaurant is situated in the heart of Ouray, creating a charming dining atmosphere.
$35, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Drive to Telluride

Telluride, CO

9:00AM

Drive to Telluride

Embark on a scenic drive from Ouray to Telluride, soaking in the breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains along the way.
Telluride is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Ouray via US-550 N and CO-145 S.
Gas Money, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Ride the Gondola

Experience a scenic gondola ride in Telluride, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The Telluride Gondola is a free mode of transportation between Mountain Village and Telluride.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Butcher & The Baker

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Butcher & The Baker, a popular eatery known for its gourmet sandwiches and baked goods.
The Butcher & The Baker is located in Mountain Village, accessible via the gondola.
$18, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Telluride Historic District

Stroll through the charming streets of Telluride's Historic District, lined with Victorian-era buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops.
The Historic District is easily walkable from The Butcher & The Baker.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Sheridan Chop House

Indulge in a fine dining experience at The Sheridan Chop House, known for its upscale steaks, seafood, and elegant atmosphere.
The Sheridan Chop House is located in downtown Telluride, offering a perfect setting for a memorable meal.
$50, 2 hours
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Day 6: Return to Grand Junction

Grand Junction, CO

9:00AM

Drive back to Grand Junction

Bid farewell to Telluride and begin your journey back to Grand Junction, enjoying the scenic drive through the rugged landscapes of Western Colorado.
The drive from Telluride to Grand Junction takes approximately 2.5 hours via US-50 E and US-550 N.
Gas Money, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at Dream Cafe

Stop for a delightful brunch at Dream Cafe, a cozy spot known for its creative omelettes, pancakes, and friendly atmosphere.
Dream Cafe is located in downtown Grand Junction, welcoming you back with delicious brunch options.
$15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Two Rivers Winery & Chateau

Visit Two Rivers Winery & Chateau for a guided wine tasting experience amidst picturesque vineyards and a French-style chateau.
Two Rivers Winery & Chateau is a short drive from downtown Grand Junction, offering a relaxing wine exploration.
$20, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Shop in Downtown Grand Junction

Take some time to explore the boutiques and art galleries in downtown Grand Junction, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
The shops in downtown Grand Junction are within walking distance from Two Rivers Winery.
Shop as per preference, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at 626 on Rood

End your adventure with a farewell dinner at 626 on Rood, revisiting this local favorite for a delicious meal before your departure.
626 on Rood in downtown Grand Junction offers a cozy setting for your final dinner in Colorado.
$40, 2 hours
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