While Grand Mesa is known as the world's largest flap topped mountain, it has it's ups and downs. It does appear to be very flat, but once you get on top you can see the topography is rolling with some peaks including Crater Peak, Green Mountain and the Crag Crest. It's also very rugged in a lot of places.
On top the elevation varies from over 10,000 feet above sea level to over 11,000 feet. The highest point is Crater Peak at 11,333 feet. The County Line area (where Delta and Mesa Counties meet) is around 10,500 feet. This is also the location of some great cross country ski trails. Grand Mesa rises over 5,000 feet from the small town of Cedaredge...which is the place I've called home for 18 years.
The Grand Mesa, or The Mesa as the locals call it, is the prominent feature on the Delta County skyline. It stretches for almost 40 miles east to west and covers about 500 square miles of land. There over 300 lakes on the top and sides of Grand Mesa. Many of them you can drive to, others require a short hike, and still others might require a long, more strenuous hike to reach. The trout fishing is amazing in a lot of the lakes. I know from my own personal experience.
Fishing isn't the only activity. The Mesa is a year round outdoor lovers paradise. In the summer months, you can hike, bike, camp, paddle board and hang out to get a break from the hot summers of the valleys below. Powderhorn ski area is on the north side and this is a great place to get away from the crowded, more well known, ski areas. Powderhorn Ski Area is a locals secret.
A short and sweet hike on Grand Mesa
There are also miles and miles of groomed cross country ski and snowshoe trails and snowmobiling is extremely popular. Hunters love the opportunity to scout for elk, deer, mountain lion and beer.
You can also enjoy The Mesa from the comfort of your car. It makes a nice scenic drive any time of the year, but especially during the wildflower season and the fall when the aspen trees are changing color. The side trip off of scenic byway Highway 65 to Lands End is also a nice day trip. Pack a lunch and enjoy the expansive views that range from the San Juan Mountains to the Colorado Monument, Grand Junction and into Utah.
There is a visitors center on the top. It's well marked and is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Check with the visitor center for various programs that are offered throughout the summer months, and for more information.
There are cabins and lots for sale on Grand Mesa. I do regular real estate market reports on the real estate that is available. Contact me for more information.
I've lived on Colorado's Western Slope for over 26 years. I love this area and all it has to offer, and I enjoy sharing what I know about my home. As a REALTOR®, I also love to share my expertise in this area as well. If you need real estate information for Montrose County, or Delta County, Colorado...please give me a call.
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