Mount Garfield

Hike to the prominent overlook above the Grand Valley.

Hiking Difficult

Distance: 5.4 km
Ascent: 621 m
Descent: 621 m
Duration: 2-3 hrs

Low Point: 1.5 km
High Point: 2.1 km
Gradient: 19˚

Mount Garfield is "the high point of the Book Cliffs, north of Grand Junction, and overlooking the town of Palisade,” according to Wikipedia). Though the mountain is relatively short in the grand scheme of Colorado peaks, this visible outcropping still serves as a popular objective for hikers and trail runners in the region.

Mighty Mount Garfield Photo: Mr. Jason Hayes

Mount Garfield, Colorado Photo: David Herrera

Description

The standard route to the top measures 3.4 miles round-trip and climbs a steep 2,000 vertical feet in the first half of that distance. Despite being such a short hike, it takes most people about 2-4 hours to complete. The steep grades and loose, steep trail make this a more challenging, strenuous ascent than you’d think.

Along the way to the summit, the trail passes a series of impressive boulder formations, an abandoned coal mine, and even some Native American petroglyphs. The views of the valley throughout the hike are also remarkable and are only topped by the views from the summit.

Once at the summit, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas of “valleys, orchards, and farmland,” and even "Mt. Sneffels over 100 miles to the south” on a clear day, according to GJHikes.com.

Sources: GJHikes.com Wikipedia)

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.