Growing up in Colorado we were constantly going for drives to the mountains, camping and enjoying the great outdoors. In 2011 my family and I moved to Texas and instantly missed having the mountains in our back yard. Nowadays we work to get to the mountains at least once per year, the crisp air, blue sky and gorgeous terrain always renews our spirit. One of our favorite places to visit is Grand Mesa Lodge. Grand Mesa Lodge has the best accommodations, endless activities and has been beautifully remodeled!
Location
The Grand Mesa of Colorado is on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. The mesa (meaning an isolated flat-topped hill with steep sides) covers an area of about 500 square miles. The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world and boasts 312 natural lakes.
From Denver International Airport (DEN) it is about a 5-hour drive to the lodge. Looking for a shorter commute? You can also fly into Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) where you will only be 1-hour from the lodge. Depending on the season roads can be messy so plan ahead, get a 4-wheel drive vehicle and take your time – it’s a beautiful drive!
As you pull up to the lodge on 65 you can’t miss the iconic Grand Mesa Lodge sign! Be sure to pull in to the lodge – where you can get checked in, enjoy a hot beverage or a cold beer!
The Lodge
After the historic snow of 2016-2017 season Grand Mesa Lodge had to do some intensive roof repairs. While the lodge was under construction the owners Mike and Rose Wenner discovered extensive damage to the structure, this finding let them to a nearly complete renovation. The new and improved lodge is the perfect place to spend an evening with friends and family!
The view of the back of the lodge showcases the large picture windows and outdoor seating – these windows overlook the beautiful Island Lake below. The lodge sits at an elevation of 10,500 ft and is the highest year-round operational lodge.
Inside the lodge, you will find a fully stocked general store! Everything from deodorant and toothpaste to fishing poles and (the softest ever) sweat pants! I always seem to find something I can’t live without! 🛍 During our recent trip, our group (mostly from Texas and California 🤷🏻) were excited to find canned Oxygen (Boost Oxygen) in the store. Everyone enjoyed having this on hand during our active weekend on the mountain – the elevation is no joke!
In addition to the general store, the lodge features a cozy seating area around a wood burning stove! Such a great place to relax and warm up after playing in the snow!
Of all the improvements made to the lodge, this one might be my favorite! 🍻 During their renovation, they added a bar and large seating area. The bar serves everything from local beer on tap to cocktails and wine by the glass. In addition, they also offer delicious bar food such as, house-made pizza, HOT wings and chili! Each food item we had was served hot and better than the last! I highly recommend Mikes secret recipe HOT🔥 wings – they are perfect for the spicy food lover!
The night we arrived, the lodge featured live music by a local artist. Her music was easy to listen to and enjoyable. The perfect addition to this cozy atmosphere!
One cannot visit Grand Mesa Lodge without meeting Wylie! Wylie is the resident pup that loves to greet newcomers from his stoop. This friendly pup is sure to make an impression on every Mesa visitor!
“Many guests have become good friends and it’s like welcoming guests to our home when they stay here because we live here and want them to get the most out of their visit”, –Mike Wenner.
Accommodations
While staying at Grand Mesa Lodge there are 16 private cabins and 2 hotel rooms to choose from. Each cabin has an individual layout accommodating different quantities of people (check out the cabins here). We always stay in Cabin 12 which has two queen beds (in private bedrooms) and a futon couch. In addition to sleeping accommodations, each cabin has a full kitchen with a dining table. The kitchens are stocked with dishes, silverware and some select cookware – everything you need to make a hot breakfast or a can of soup!
❄The Grand Mesa averages 425 inches of snow per season, that is over 35 feet!!! ❄
Activities
While staying at Grand Mesa Lodge there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun!
Winter –
- Snowmobiling (Mike is the BEST tour guide!)
- Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country Skiing)
- Ice Fishing
- Skiing/Snowboarding @ Powderhorn Ski Resort (a 20-minute drive down the road)
Summer/Fall –
- Fishing
- Boat Rentals
- 4-Wheeling
- Golf @ Cedaredge Golf Club (a 30-minute drive down the road)
- Hiking
- Mountain Biking
- Swimming
- Fall Color Viewing
- Hunting
Weddings
If you are looking for a wedding spot look no further. Grand Mesa Lodge offers the most beautiful untouched canvas, perfect for tieing the knot surrounded by those you love.
With cabins for the whole party, a gorgeous overlook for the ceremony and the beautiful lodge for the reception Grand Mesa Lodge is your one-stop shop for a classic mountain wedding. Interested in more information? Click here.
If you are looking to take a step away, to unplug and enjoy nature as it’s intended
Grand Mesa Lodge is the place for you.
Mike and Rose will welcome you into their home like family.
It really is Colorado’s hidden gem.
If you have any questions leave them below, if you make the trip make sure to scratch Wiley’s ears for me! 🐶
xo,
C
Interested in more information on our Colorado travels? click here