Drive Rim Rock Drive through the Colorado National Monument. This 23-mile scenic route winds through towering red rock spires and deep sandstone canyons. Once you've taken in the vistas, exit at the west gate and roll into Fruita for a well-earned slice at Hot Tomato. It’s a legendary local spot where the pizza is thin, the vibe is bike-themed and lively.
Hot Tomato Is our favorite post-ride, post Monument drive meal, its got a solid patio hang, and a laid-back local vibe that's always a good time. Our favorite pizza there is the Noni, it's got a nice combination of the sun-dried tomatoes and a balsamic reduction that super enjoyable. It’s basically a requirement to stop for us whenever we're looking for pizza.
Are you looking for the best breakfast burrito in town? This is the place. Plus it's got a nice outdoor seating area, the coffee is good, and its attached to a cool local bike shop.
This is our favorite place to grab a pint, it's downtown on Main street, it's got a good vibe, and everything on the menu has a vegetarian option!
It going to be June, it's going to be warm, so ice cream is always a good option. While you're there grab a little of their toffee that's made right here in town, it's super yummy.
Are you looking to stretch those legs a little? This short hike might be the ticket. It starts inside the Monument, so you do need to either have the National Parks pass or you'll have to pay to get in, but it will give you a good taste of what our local geography is like.
This can be a short trail or a long, but the highlight of this trail is not too far the parking area, where you get to hike a huge shield of sandstone, and get good views of Grand Junction. We suggest starting this trail from the upper end: The Upper Ribbon Trailhead, off Little Park Road.
If you have half a day to spare, its definitely worth it to make the 1 hour drive up on the Grand Mesa (the worlds largest flat top mountain) and explore. The Mesa Lakes recreation area is very scenic and easy to do short walks from the car. Or go exploring more remote trails anywhere on the Mesa. Its worth the drive and generally about 20 or so degrees cooler than in Grand Junction (because you drive up to 9-10K feet elevation).