A must-see on the world's largest flat-topped mountain is the Lands End Overlook, which clings 6,000 feet above the valley and takes in views as far-reaching as the Sneffels Range near Ridgway.
Drive along the picturesque and EV-friendly Grand Mesa scenic byway through the Grand Mesa National Forest, where you will find alpine meadows, more than 400 miles of trails and access directly off of the byway to dozens of trout lakes. Lodges on the mesa offer cozy, rustic rooms and delicious dining opportunities.
Continue to Cedaredge on the southern side of Grand Mesa where in addition to views of orchards and stately groves of white ash you will be treated to live music venues, wine tasting rooms and bucolic farms. Late fall also brings bushels of apples that hang heavy on the town's trees. To celebrate the harvest each October, Cedaredge puts on Applefest, a celebration of the town's most abundant fruit.
The byway veers west just before Skyway, and travels to the top of the Grand Mesa. Looking over the horizon, it's hard to tell if it's the more than 10,500-foot altitude or just the views of Rocky Mountains and evergreen forests that take your breath away.
Returning down the mesa, then heading north, you'll reach the tiny town of Skyway. Tucked into the Grand Mesa National Forest, Skyway is settled by those who are enchanted by pristine nature and the outdoor pursuits it provides. Head east of town to visit the well-frequented Grand Mesa Lakes.
North of Skyway sits Powderhorn, one of Colorado's most down-to-earth ski resorts. It's in this mountain range that some of the softest snow in the state falls. This ski resort prides itself on natural runs, long days and short lift lines. For the more fearless, tree skiing and powder runs are ample and uncrowded. Powderhorn has developed into a year-round recreation area with trails for mountain biking and more.
Mesa is the northern gateway to the byway. In downtown Mesa, a few cafes and a country market supply travel necessities. Stop into any store for a brochure on Mesa's self-guided driving tour of the many old barns in the area. On the outskirts of town you'll find acres of open space and miles of trails. In addition, more than 200 lakes are sprinkled within picturesque pine forests.
The History: Check out the Cedaredge Welcome Center at Pioneer Town and pick up a historical brochure on the byway. Then head up Grand Mesa to Raber Cow Cabins and take a walk along the interpretive trail to learn about cow camps typical of Colorado's cattle industry.
Portions closed in winter? Yes (Lands End Road)
Distance: 63 miles
Suggested Time: Allow 2 hours