Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway | American Tour Association

THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

This playground in the sky climbs from the rugged Plateau Canyon floor to the cool evergreen mesa forests, 11,000 feet up. Featured are hundreds of sparkling lakes, wildflower meadows and forests of shimmering aspen and pine. Take a side trip to Lands End Overlook where the Grand Valley unfolds below.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway

Start with this outlineCO 65 · Cedaredge and Grand Mesa toward the Colorado River valley

The water exhibit, located in the Grand Mesa Visitor Center on top of the Grand Mesa, was developed under a grant in 1997. — Water Exhibit in Grand Mesa Visitor Center
Public Domain. Photo by Sally Pearce · Photo credits

Atop the Grand Mesa, this view looks northwest toward the lakes. — View from the Top of Grand Mesa
Public Domain. Photo by Sally Pearce · Photo credits

GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO STOP

Places and landscapes to consider

Grand Mesa forests
Mountain-lake country
Valley viewpoints

Before you drive

Check seasonal conditions and side-road access. Do not assume every lakeside road is paved or suitable for a coach.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.