Mount Garfield Trail
A challenging, steep hike offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Grand Valley and surrounding majestic landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Mount Garfield Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging, steep hike offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Grand Valley and surrounding majestic landscapes.
"The views from the top are worth it!"
👟 Traction is Key!
Wear shoes with excellent grip. Steep sections and scrambles demand good traction to prevent slips.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The trail is fully exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 190 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Mount Garfield Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of the Grand Valley, San Juans, Grand Mesa, and Book Cliffs.
Geological Formations
Along the trail
Witness distinct red and gray layers of Mancos Shale and sandstone, showcasing millions of years of geological history.
Abandoned Mines
Upper sections of the trail
Spot remnants of historical mining operations, adding a unique historical element to the hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: What to Know Before You Go
Accessing the Trailhead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Traction is Key!
Wear shoes with excellent grip. Steep sections and scrambles demand good traction to prevent slips.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The trail is fully exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry plenty of water, especially on hot days. There are no water sources along the trail.
⬆️ Poles for Support
Trekking poles can be very helpful for stability on the steep ascents and descents.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Traction is Key!
Wear shoes with excellent grip. Steep sections and scrambles demand good traction to prevent slips.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
The trail is fully exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry plenty of water, especially on hot days. There are no water sources along the trail.
⬆️ Poles for Support
Trekking poles can be very helpful for stability on the steep ascents and descents.
🚗 High Clearance Vehicle
Recommended for the underpass to avoid water and mud. Otherwise, plan for a short wade or highway crossing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers consistently praise Mount Garfield Trail for its challenging ascent and absolutely spectacular, rewarding views of the Grand Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. While the steepness and scrambles are noted, most find the effort well worth it. Some caution is advised regarding trailhead access via the underpass, especially for lower-clearance vehicles.
"An amazing hike with the best view of the valley.
I do HIGHLY recommend having a high clearance vehicle if you want to drive through the underpass because it is usually filled with water and has a difficult gravel driving surface. For context my CRV barely made it through 2 or so feet of water and mud which was a stupid decision. You can park in front of the underpass, but you have to either wade through the water or run across the highway to make it to the trailhead. Definitely still worth the challenge."
Gear Geek
"This is an awesome hike! It took us just over 2.5hrs round trip. Going up is obviously more challenging because it’s steep and there are a number of scrambles but if you take your time and follow the well laid out trail you’ll be all set.
We used poles which were very helpful. The trail is fully exposed so consider going early in the morning or definitely dress accordingly and wear sunscreen!
The views from the top are worth it!"
Gina T.
"Awesome, steep climb with spectacular views all the way to the San Juans to the south. Views of Palisade wine country, Grand Mesa, and Grand Junction. The badlands below the summit extending towards the Utah border are incredible to witness from above."
Gabe Cohen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located north of Grand Junction, Colorado. Access often involves an underpass that can be filled with water and mud, requiring a high-clearance vehicle. If your vehicle isn't suitable, you can park before the underpass and either wade through the water or carefully cross the highway to reach the trail.
Parking is available before the underpass if you don't have a high-clearance vehicle. Some visitors also park near the highway, but caution is advised when crossing.
No, the Mount Garfield Trail is a hiking trail and is not accessible by vehicle to the summit. The underpass is the only vehicle access point to get closer to the trailhead.
The road leading to the trailhead, particularly the underpass, can be challenging due to water and mud. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is often recommended.
Public transport options directly to the Mount Garfield Trailhead are limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange for a ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Mount Garfield Trail is a public access area and does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy this natural wonder for free!
The trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially during winter months.
No advance booking or tickets are required for hiking Mount Garfield Trail. It's a public trail open to all.
No special permits are typically required for day hiking on the Mount Garfield Trail.
While technically possible, hiking at night is not recommended due to the steep terrain, potential for disorientation, and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for safety.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The round trip hike typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.
The Mount Garfield Trail is considered strenuous due to its steepness and elevation gain. It involves significant climbing and some scrambling sections.
You'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Grand Valley, including Grand Junction, Palisade wine country, Grand Mesa, and the distant San Juan Mountains.
Yes, Mount Garfield is a popular spot for hiking with dogs. Just be sure to keep them leashed and clean up after them.
Restroom facilities are not typically available at the Mount Garfield Trailhead. Plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The unique geological layers along the trail also make for striking photos.
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset provide the best lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the landscape.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or land managers regarding any restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive vistas. Consider a camera with good low-light performance for sunrise/sunset shots.
The summit is the primary viewpoint, but numerous spots along the trail offer stunning perspectives of the valley and rock formations.
Social
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