Road Trip:
Denver to Grand Junction

Taking a road trip from Denver to Grand Junction is a great way to see all the different kinds of beautiful places in Colorado. This guide will provide you with information on the history of Grand Junction, the type of car you should rent, the route you should take, safety tips, and attractions along the way.

When planning your trip to Grand Junction, consider renting a car that suits your specific needs. Kyte offers a variety of car types, including economy, sedan, SUV, and AWD vehicles. For winter trips, consider an AWD or SUV to navigate snowy or icy conditions. For summer excursions, a fuel-efficient sedan or economy car is perfect for long drives. If you plan on hitting a well-manicured dirt road, stick with an AWD.

The most direct route to Grand Junction from Denver is to follow I-70 W for approximately 235 miles. Begin by taking the W 6th Ave/6th Ave. Freeway and continue onto US-6 W/6th Ave. Freeway. Take the exit onto I-70 W towards Grand Jct and continue for 225 miles. Finally, take exit 37 for U.S. 6 W/I-70 Business W toward Clifton/Grand Jct, and you'll arrive in Grand Junction in approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes.

Upon landing at Denver International Airport, head over to the East Terminal's car rental shuttles. A ride comes around every 5 minutes and will take you right to your rental car. No fuss with counters or lines, you'll be in your car quickly. A Kyte agent will effortlessly check your driver's license, and with a few clicks in the app, you'll have your keys in hand. It's a smooth process that takes less than 40 seconds. Then follow the route from the last paragraph.

For a more scenic alternative, follow these directions from Union Station: Merge onto I-25 S, then take exit 209B toward Lakewood and merge onto US-6 W. After a short distance, take the exit onto I-70 W towards Grand Jct and then take exit 260 for CO-470 toward Colorado Springs. Merge onto CO-470 E and take exit 5A to merge onto US-285 S/US Hwy 285 S towards Fairplay. Continue on US-285 S/US Hwy 285 S for 110 miles, then turn right onto US-50 W. Follow US-50 W through Montrose, turning right onto US-50 W/N Townsend Ave, and continue until you reach Grand Junction. This route offers a completely different view and allows you to experience Colorado's stunning landscapes and small towns along the way.

When driving from Denver to Grand Junction, keep these safety tips in mind:

Grand Junction offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including winter sports, hiking and biking trails, shopping and dining experiences, and annual festivals.

The Grand Junction area, nestled in western Colorado, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and endless outdoor recreation possibilities. This region is characterized by its dramatic sandstone cliffs, towering plateaus, and lush river valleys that provide a stunning backdrop for adventure enthusiasts.

One of the area's highlights is the Colorado National Monument, a protected expanse that boasts awe-inspiring views, intricate rock formations, and an array of wildlife. Visitors can embark on challenging trails that wind through the monument, such as the Serpents Trail, Devil's Kitchen, and the more demanding Liberty Cap Trail. Along the way, hikers and bikers will be treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and canyons, making the journey well worth the effort.

For those seeking a more secluded experience, the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area offers a diverse array of hiking and biking trails. The area encompasses over 120,000 acres of rugged terrain, including the iconic Rattlesnake Arches, a series of natural sandstone arches that are sure to leave a lasting impression. In addition to hiking and biking, visitors can also enjoy river rafting, horseback riding, and even backcountry camping in designated areas.

Downtown Grand Junction is home to a variety of unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Stroll down Main Street and browse the local boutiques or enjoy a meal at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants that showcase the region's fresh produce and culinary talent.

Grand Junction is a lively city with a lot going on. Throughout the year, many popular festivals draw both locals and tourists. Notable events include the fragrant Colorado Lavender Festival, the mouthwatering Palisade Peach Festival, and the thrilling Grand Junction Air Show. Each of these celebrations provides attendees with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich local culture and traditions of the area. Additionally, these events feature an array of regional cuisine for participants to sample, showcasing the culinary delights that the region has to offer. In addition to the food and cultural experiences, festival-goers can also enjoy an assortment of live entertainment, including music, performances, and demonstrations, making these festivals an unforgettable and enjoyable experience for all who attend.