Grand Mesa National Forest – Image Gallery

Grand Mesa National Forest

Details

Grand Mesa National Forest

Grand Mesa National Forest is located in Western Colorado and is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities. It is one of the largest flat-topped mountains in the world, with an area of over 500 square miles.

Features:

• Scenic drives: The forest offers several scenic drives that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Hiking trails: There are numerous hiking trails that lead to alpine lakes, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Fishing: Grand Mesa National Forest is home to over 300 lakes and reservoirs, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
• Camping: The forest has several campgrounds that offer a chance to experience the great outdoors and starry nights.
• Wildlife viewing: The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, and black bears.

Ecological significance:

Grand Mesa National Forest is an important ecosystem that supports a wide variety of plant and animal species. The forest provides habitat for several rare and endangered species, including the Canada lynx and the Gunnison sage-grouse. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and regulating the climate in the region.

The forest is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is home to over 200 species of birds, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and ospreys. Grand Mesa National Forest is a designated wilderness area, which means that it is protected from development and is managed to preserve its natural beauty and ecological integrity.

Overall, Grand Mesa National Forest is a unique and diverse ecosystem that offers visitors a chance to experience the wonders of nature and appreciate the importance of conservation and preservation.

Grand Mesa National Forest

Points of Interest

1. Grand Mesa Scenic Byway

The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway is a picturesque drive that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes. Visitors can stop at various pull-offs along the way to take in the breathtaking scenery and snap photos of the towering cliffs and lush meadows.

2. Land's End Observatory

The Land's End Observatory is a must-visit attraction in the Grand Mesa National Forest. From the observatory, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Grand Valley and the Colorado River. The observatory also offers interpretive displays and information about the local flora and fauna.

3. Lakes and Reservoirs

• Lake Granby: Lake Granby is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy hiking along the shoreline or taking a scenic boat tour of the lake.
• Island Lake: Island Lake is a serene alpine lake that offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming on a hot summer day.
• Ward Lake: Ward Lake is a peaceful destination for camping, fishing, and kayaking. The surrounding pine forests provide ample shade for picnics and relaxation.

4. Hiking Trails

The Grand Mesa National Forest is home to a network of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. From easy nature walks to challenging summit climbs, there is a trail for every type of hiker. Popular trails include the Crag Crest Trail, the Mesa Lakes Trail, and the Ward Lake Loop.

5. Wildlife Viewing

The Grand Mesa National Forest is teeming with wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, and black bears. Birdwatchers will also delight in spotting a variety of bird species, such as bald eagles, ospreys, and peregrine falcons. Be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to capture these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Grand Mesa National Forest – Images

Description: Capturing spawning blackspotted trout in small tributary of Grand Mesa Lake, Colorado Subject: Cutthroat trout culture, Grand Mesa Lake (Colorado), Cutthroat trout--Spawning Geographic Subject: United States--Colorado--Grand Mesa Lake Tag: Hatcheries

Image by John Wheelock Titcomb – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Looking approximately N-NW from the Land`s End Observatory located on the western edge of the Grand Mesa of western Colorado, USA

Image by Jack B108 – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia

Description: An aerial photograph of Grand Mesa, Colorado. The snow cover accentuates its relatively flat surface.

Image by Jeffrey Beall – CC BY 3.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Grand Mesa 2011-08-07

Image by KimonBerlin – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Grand Mesa 2011-08-07

Image by KimonBerlin – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Scope and content: The original finding aid described this photograph as: Original Caption: Atop the Grand Mesa, this view looks northwest toward the lakes. Location: Location: Colorado (39.111° N 108.141° W) Status: Public domain. Photo by Sally Pearce

Image by Unknown authorUnknown author or not provided – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: This is a gravel national forest service road atop Grand Mesa, Colorado. It shows the typical terrain and condition of the road network on the mesa.

Image by DrunkDriver – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Lands End in Grand Mesa National Forest, Colorado, US

Image by Clyde Charles Brown – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Sujet : Forêts Tourisme Grand Mesa national forest (forêt) Échelle(s) : 5 miles [=Om, 037 ; 1:212 000 environ] Couverture : États-Unis – Colorado Langue : anglais Éditeur : Forest Service (Washington)

Image by Etats-Unis. Forest service. Auteur du texte – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Sujet : Forêts Tourisme Grand Mesa national forest (forêt) Échelle(s) : 5 miles [=Om, 037 ; 1:212 000 environ] Couverture : États-Unis – Colorado Langue : anglais Éditeur : Forest Service (Washington)

Image by Etats-Unis. Forest service. Auteur du texte – Public domain – Wikimedia