Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway
Places to Visit

  • Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests

    Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests (CO)

    The Forests include spectacular features like Bridal Veil Falls, Grand Mesa, and Alpine Tunnel.

    Location:

    On the western slope of the Colorado Rockies.

  • Grand Mesa Visitor Center (CO)

    This beautiful log structure provides visitor information, exhibits, interpretive materials, and an interpretive hiking trail.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located at the intersection of Highway 65 and Forest Development Road 121.
  • Land-O-Lakes Overlook

    Land-O-Lakes Overlook (CO)

    Due to its unique geology, the Grand Mesa is dotted with over 300 lakes and reservoirs. A short trail to this overlook provides an incredible view of many of these lakes and also of the West Elk Mountains to the East.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located on the byway, just south of the turnoff to the Lands End Observatory.
  • Lands End Observatory

    Lands End Observatory (CO)

    This overlook is perched on the edge of Grand Mesa. From this point, visitors can look down on the valley 6000 feet below.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    The turnoff to this point of interest is located near Mesa Lakes. The road leaves the main byway and leads visitors 11 miles to the west to the observatory.
  • Mesa Lakes

    Mesa Lakes (CO)

    Visitors to this area will find seven beautiful lakes all within walking distance of one another. Facilities include developed campgrounds, picnic areas, a resort with a restaurant, and area trails for hiking and cycling.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located on the byway near the turnoff to the Lands End Observatory.
  • Plateau Creek Canyon

    Plateau Creek Canyon (CO)

    Visitors can view sandstone cliffs and beautiful rock formations along this deep canyon section of the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    At the intersection of Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 65.
  • Powderhorn Ski Resort

    Powderhorn Ski Resort (CO)

    Powderhorn Ski Resort offers fun for the entire family at any season of the year.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    south of Mesa, CO
  • Raber Cabins

    Raber Cabins (CO)

    These historic cabins have an accessible interpretative trail which tells the story of the early days of cow camps and cattle grazing in this area.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located along Development Road 100 on the way to the Land's End Observatory.
  • Welcome Center and Pioneer Town

    Welcome Center and Pioneer Town (CO)

    This facility provides visitor information, exhibits, and a tour of a reconstructed town which depicts the life of early pioneers in the area.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Located at the south entrance of the byway in the town of Cedaredge.