Collbran Ranger District

The Collbran area incorporates the northern portion of the Grand Mesa as well as National Forest lands to the north and east of the Plateau Creek Valley. The Grand Mesa, is one of the world's largest flattop mountains and is dotted with alpine lakes and reservoirs.

The Grand Mesa, is one of the world's largest flattop mountains and is dotted with alpine lakes and reservoirs. There are campgrounds and picnic grounds normally open from early July, after the snow melts, to late September. The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway runs from Cedaredge to Plateau Valley. Forest Road 121, south of Collbran, accesses many outback fishing holes on the Grand Mesa. There are many cross-country skiing and snowmobiling opportunities on the district. Winter access is on Highway 65, which is maintained year-round. Powderhorn Ski Area, located on the north slopes of the Grand Mesa provides downhill skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Attractions - The Grand Mesa, is one of the world's largest flattop mountains and is dotted with alpine lakes and reservoirs. There are campgrounds and picnic grounds normally open from early July, after the snow melts, to late September. The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway runs from Cedaredge to Plateau Valley. Forest Road 121, south of Collbran, accesses many outback fishing holes on the Grand Mesa. There are many cross-country skiing and snowmobiling opportunities on the district. Winter access is on Highway 65, which is maintained year-round. Powderhorn Ski Area, located on the north slopes of the Grand Mesa provides downhill skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Recreation - Popular recreation activities on the Collbran District include downhill and cross-country skiing, developed and dispersed camping, four-wheel driving, sightseeing, hunting, fishing, hiking, boating, snowmobiling, picnicking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and backpacking.

Climate - The Grand Mesa has an average elevation of 10,000 feet. Summer high temperatures can reach into the 70s and low 80s. Evenings are cool, with temperatures that can often dip into the 30s. Afternoon summer thunderstorms are common. Snow is possible at any time of year in the highest elevations. Roads and trails above 9,000 feet are often not clear of snow until at least mid-July. The relative humidity is quite low throughout the year.

Winter lows can dip well below zero, though daytime temperatures are normally in the 20s to 30s. Much of the precipitation comes in the winter, when heavy snow can be expected in most forest areas.

Location - The Collbran Ranger District encompasses the northern half of the Grand Mesa National Forest, including the northern portion of the Grand Mesa itself. It is located around the town of Collbran, to the east of Grand Junction. The area includes the headwaters of many streams that drain into Plateau Creek.