Nestled on a high plateau overlooking the majestic Colorado River, Battlement Mesa is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets with over 300 days of sunshine annually. This growing community of approximately 5,000 residents offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm that makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic western Colorado experiences without the crowds of more famous resort towns.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Battlement Mesa is ideally located on the I-70 corridor in western Colorado, making it easily accessible by car. The community is approximately 30 minutes west of Glenwood Springs and 35 minutes east of Grand Junction.
The closest major airports to Battlement Mesa are:
- Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) – 56 km (35 miles) west
- Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) – 97 km (60 miles) east
- Garfield County Regional Airport – 24 km (15 miles) east
- Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) – 113 km (70 miles) southeast
If you’re driving from Denver, expect a scenic 3.5-hour journey along I-70 west. The drive itself offers spectacular mountain views as you pass through the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Battlement Mesa enjoys a mild four-season climate with approximately 300 days of sunshine annually. At an elevation of 1,676 m (5,500 ft), the area experiences more moderate temperatures than both the higher mountain towns and the lower desert valleys.
| Season | Temperature Range | Precipitation | Recommended For |
| Spring (Apr-May) | 7-21°C (45-70°F) | Moderate | Hiking, fishing, golf |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 15-32°C (60-90°F) | Low | All outdoor activities |
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | 7-24°C (45-75°F) | Low | Hiking, hunting, golf |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | -7-7°C (20-45°F) | Moderate snow | Skiing, snowmobiling |
Best months to visit: May through October offers the most pleasant weather and access to all outdoor activities. September is particularly beautiful with mild temperatures and fall colors.
Months to avoid: December through February can be cold with occasional snow, though the area receives less snowfall than Colorado’s central mountains. If winter sports aren’t your interest, these months may be less appealing.
Getting Around Locally
Battlement Mesa is a planned community with well-maintained roads and infrastructure. Having your own vehicle is highly recommended as public transportation options are limited in this rural area.
- The community has nearly 6 miles of “in-town” trails for walking, jogging, and biking
- Major attractions within Battlement Mesa are within a short driving distance of each other
- For exploring nearby towns like Parachute, Rifle, or Glenwood Springs, a car is essential
- Some outdoor recreation areas require 4-wheel drive vehicles, especially in winter or for accessing backcountry trails
If you’re flying into the area, car rentals are available at all nearby airports. For those interested in guided outdoor experiences, several local outfitters offer transportation as part of their services.
Where to Stay
Battlement Mesa offers several accommodation options ranging from hotels to vacation rentals. The area is known for its affordability compared to more famous Colorado resort towns.
Hotels & Motels
Several hotels are located in and around Battlement Mesa and neighboring Parachute:
- Candlewood Suites – 970.285.9880
- Comfort Inn & Suites – 970.285.1122
- Holiday Inn Express – 970.285.2330
Vacation Rentals
For a more home-like experience, consider renting a private home or condo. Many properties offer views of the Colorado River or surrounding mountains and provide full kitchens and multiple bedrooms.
Vacation rentals are particularly popular with families and groups planning extended stays.
Golf Course Accommodations
The Battlement Mesa Golf Club offers fully furnished one- and two-bedroom suites for those who want to stay near the course. These renovated condominiums include access to amenities like a swimming pool, weight room, racquetball courts, and an outdoor playground.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While Battlement Mesa has a limited selection of dining options, you’ll find several local restaurants serving hearty Western fare. For more extensive dining options, nearby towns like Rifle and Glenwood Springs offer additional choices.
Local Favorites
Downtown Battlement Mesa features a few restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy home-style cooking and friendly service. Clark’s Market on Sipperelle Drive is the main grocery store where you can stock up on supplies for self-catering.
For authentic Western Colorado flavors, try local game dishes, fresh trout, and regional produce when in season.
Nearby Options
For a wider selection of dining experiences:
- Parachute (5 minutes) – Several family restaurants and fast-food options
- Rifle (20 minutes) – More diverse dining scene with local eateries
- Glenwood Springs (30 minutes) – Full range of restaurants from casual to fine dining
- Grand Junction (35 minutes) – Largest selection of restaurants in the region
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Battlement Mesa Golf Club
The crown jewel of Battlement Mesa is its 18-hole championship public golf course. When it opened, the course was ranked one of the “Best Courses in America You Can Play” by Golf Digest. Designed by Joe Finger and Ken Dye, this award-winning course draws golfers from all over for its spectacular views, challenging greens, and affordable rounds.
The routing takes full advantage of the unique setting: a high plains plateau overlooking the Colorado River. Both beginners and experienced golfers will appreciate the well-maintained facilities and friendly atmosphere.
Grand Valley Recreation Center
The 53,000 sq. ft. Grand Valley Recreation Center is a hub of community activity offering a diverse selection of indoor recreational facilities:
- Swimming pool and hot tub
- Indoor running track
- Basketball court
- Racquetball courts
- Cardio and weight rooms
- Tennis courts
- Sauna
- Game room
The center is perfect for days when outdoor activities aren’t possible or when you’re looking for some indoor recreation options.
Battlement Reservoirs
The Battlement Reservoirs are a chain of seven scenic, manmade lakes originally constructed in the late 19th Century. Located in a pristine high mountain setting south of Battlement Mesa, these reservoirs offer outstanding fishing and dispersed camping opportunities.
History enthusiasts will appreciate that some of the original horse-drawn equipment used to construct the reservoirs remains on site, providing a glimpse into the area’s past. The reservoirs are accessible via forest roads, though a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Parachute Ponds State Wildlife Area
This 10.5-hectare (26-acre) facility managed by Colorado Parks & Wildlife features a coldwater stream pond with a fishing pier. It’s an excellent spot for fishing, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Visitors must have a current fishing license to fish at this facility.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Hiking & Biking
Battlement Mesa offers nearly 6 miles of “in-town” trails for hiking, jogging, and biking. For more adventurous outings, the surrounding area provides numerous opportunities:
- Battlement Trail #2160 crosses the entire length of the Battlement Mesa area
- The trails around Battlement Reservoirs offer scenic hiking opportunities
- The nearby Flat Tops Wilderness area provides over 235,406 acres of pristine backcountry to explore
Fishing
Anglers will find plenty of opportunities in and around Battlement Mesa:
- The Colorado River forms the north boundary of the community and offers excellent fishing
- Battlement Reservoirs provide high-mountain lake fishing
- Parachute Ponds State Wildlife Area has a fishing pier and stocked pond
- Nearby Harvey Gap and Rifle Gap Reservoirs offer additional fishing opportunities
Common catches include rainbow trout, brown trout, bass, and pike depending on the location.
Winter Activities
While Battlement Mesa receives less snow than Colorado’s central mountains, winter sports enthusiasts have plenty of options nearby:
- Powderhorn Resort (35 minutes away) offers 1,600 skiable acres and is known for excellent tree-skiing
- Sunlight Ski Area (45 minutes away) provides affordable skiing options
- The Grand Mesa offers extensive snowmobiling terrain and cross-country skiing trails
- Snowshoeing opportunities abound in the surrounding national forests
Hunting
The areas surrounding Battlement Mesa are well-known for big game hunting opportunities. With proximity to White River National Forest, Grand Mesa National Forest, and BLM lands, hunters have access to thousands of acres of public lands. The region is known for trophy mule deer and large elk populations, as well as opportunities for mountain lion and black bear hunting.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Battlement Mesa itself has limited cultural attractions, the surrounding region offers several interesting options:
Gateway Canyons Auto Museum
Located about an hour’s drive from Battlement Mesa, this museum houses an impressive collection of historic American automobiles. The facility showcases the evolution of the American automobile and its impact on society.
Museum of Western Colorado
In nearby Grand Junction, this museum celebrates the history and culture of western Colorado through exhibits on paleontology, geology, and regional history. It’s a great place to learn about the area’s rich heritage.
Local Events
Throughout the year, Battlement Mesa and surrounding communities host various events including:
- Winter Fest celebrations
- Community concerts and performances
- Seasonal farmers markets
- Holiday celebrations
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Battlement Mesa is generally a safe community with friendly residents. However, as with any outdoor destination, there are some important safety considerations:
Outdoor Safety
- Always check weather forecasts before outdoor activities
- Carry plenty of water, especially in summer months
- Use sunscreen and wear a hat – the high elevation means stronger UV exposure
- For backcountry activities, always let someone know your plans
- Be aware of wildlife, including bears, in surrounding wilderness areas
Local Etiquette
- Respect private property – some trails cross through private land
- Practice “Leave No Trace” principles in natural areas
- Fishing requires appropriate licenses
- During hunting season, wear bright colors when hiking in hunting areas
- Support local businesses when possible
Visitor Comments About Battlement Mesa
“I was amazed by the pristine beauty of the Battlement Reservoirs. The fishing was excellent, and we had the entire place to ourselves! The golf course was also a highlight – challenging but not intimidating for an average golfer like me. Battlement Mesa offers authentic Colorado experiences without the tourist crowds.”
“We stayed in Battlement Mesa while exploring western Colorado. It was the perfect home base – affordable accommodations and centrally located to many attractions. The Grand Valley Recreation Center was a hit with our kids on the one rainy day we had. Don’t miss the hiking trails with spectacular mountain views!”
“As international travelers, we found Battlement Mesa to be a wonderful glimpse into authentic American small-town life. The locals were incredibly friendly and helpful with suggestions. The natural beauty surrounding the community is breathtaking, especially the views from the golf course and the trails along the Colorado River.”
Additional Nearby Destinations
Battlement Mesa’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other western Colorado attractions:
Glenwood Springs (30 minutes)
- World-Famous Hot Springs Pool
- Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
- Hanging Lake/Spouting Rock (permit required)
- Colorado River rafting and kayaking
Grand Junction (35 minutes)
- Colorado National Monument
- Colorado’s Wine Country
- Museum of Western Colorado
- Shopping and dining options
Other Nearby Attractions
- Grand Mesa – the world’s largest flat-top mountain
- Rifle Falls State Park
- Flat Tops Wilderness Area
- Rifle Mountain Park – renowned for rock climbing
Practical Travel Tips
- Cell Service: While coverage is generally good in Battlement Mesa proper, it can be spotty in surrounding wilderness areas
- Altitude: At 1,676 m (5,500 ft), some visitors may experience mild altitude symptoms – stay hydrated and take it easy for the first day
- Grocery Shopping: Clark’s Market on Sipperelle Drive is the main grocery store in Battlement Mesa
- Gas Stations: Fill up in Battlement Mesa or Parachute before heading into remote areas
- Visitor Information: To receive a Visitor Information pack, contact the Battlement Mesa Service Association
- Medical Services: Grand River Hospital District provides medical services in the area, with more extensive care available in Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction
Your Colorado Adventure Awaits
Battlement Mesa offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and authentic western Colorado charm. Whether you’re teeing off on the award-winning golf course, fishing in the pristine reservoirs, or using the community as a base to explore the broader region, you’ll find yourself enchanted by this hidden gem. With affordable accommodations, friendly locals, and breathtaking natural beauty, Battlement Mesa provides a genuine Colorado experience without the crowds and high prices of more famous destinations. Pack your sense of adventure and discover why locals refer to this special place as “a great place to visit, to live, to work and to retire.”
The above is subject to change.
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