Western Wanderlust Chronicles

This 4th of July, Bill, Greg, and I, along with our dogs Lennon and Dasher, celebrated the holiday by camping at the stunning Grand Mesa National Forest in Colorado. Known as the largest flat-top mountain in the world, Grand Mesa offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its dense forests, pristine lakes, and breathtaking vistas, it provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. The forest boasts over 300 lakes, making it a haven for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The serene environment and crisp mountain air created an ideal setting for our memorable camping trip.

Arrival and Fishing at Grand Mesa Lakes

We secured an RV site at the Grand Mesa Lodge, nestled directly on Island Lake at an elevation of 10,500 feet. Island Lake, the largest on Grand Mesa, is renowned for its clear waters and scenic beauty. Surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, it’s perfect for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.

Fishing at Grand Mesa National Forest is a dream come true for anglers. The area is famous for its abundance of lakes, each teeming with fish species like rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout. Bill and Greg, accompanied by Bill’s friend Jim, spent several days fly fishing. Jim helped them improve their skills, and they explored several lakes by kayak and belly boat. It was Bill and Greg’s first time fly fishing from a belly boat, and they loved the immersive experience. Thanks to Jim’s expertise, we enjoyed a delicious cutthroat trout dinner that night.

Day 2: Exploring Island Lake Trails and Beyond

While the guys spent the morning fishing, Lennon and I ventured out to explore the trails around Island Lake. In the afternoon, we all headed to the Land of Lakes Overlook. The dogs were thrilled, scampering eagerly up the trail. This short hike (0.5 miles round trip) led us to a breathtaking rim with a panoramic view of the stunning landscape. From this scenic viewpoint, we marveled at the numerous lakes reflecting the clear blue sky, all framed by lush forests. In the distance, we could see the Elk and San Juan mountain ranges and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, making the vista even more awe-inspiring.

Day 3: Exploring Mesa Lakes Recreational Area

The guys started the morning with some fishing while I prepared for an afternoon adventure. Later, we headed out to explore the Mesa Lakes Recreational Area, eager to discover more of the beautiful lakes in the region. Each lake in the area offers its own unique and enchanting experience.

We began our journey at Sunset Lake, a picturesque spot perfect for relaxation and nature photography. Next, we visited Beaver Lake, a smaller and serene lake ideal for fishing. Our exploration then took us to Mesa Lake, with its clear, sunlit waters shimmering under the afternoon sun.

As we made our way to Lost Lake, we passed South Mesa Lake, a quiet and beautiful spot where we saw a yellow-bellied marmot sunning on the rocks. Although we couldn’t linger for long, we were enchanted by the tranquility of the scene. Finally, we reached Lost Lake, which provided a more secluded experience with its pristine blue-green waters. The dogs enjoyed swimming while I dipped my feet in the cool mountain waters, relishing the serene moment.

We concluded our hike around the Mesa Lake Shoreline trail, a total of 4.4 miles. It was a fantastic way to end day three of our Grand Mesa vacation, filled with the beauty of nature and the joy of exploration.

Day 4: Hiking and Nature Immersion

On the fourth day, Greg and I embarked on an 8.9-mile hike that took us past five lakes on the Mesa. Starting at Ward Lake, we followed the Ward Lake Trail to Baron Trail. The gentle, family-friendly Ward Lake Trail winds around the picturesque lake, with easy terrain and well-maintained paths. The Baron Trail then led us through dense forests and meadows, past Alexander Lake and Baron Lake.

We continued along Lakeshore Drive road, traveling past Eggleston Lake to Crag Crest Campground, where we connected with the Lower Crag Crest Trail. This trail offered an immersive experience of the region’s rugged beauty. Greg and I enjoyed the challenging yet rewarding hike, trekking through thick woods, rocky outcrops, and alpine meadows. The trail eventually led to a striking ridgeline with expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

As we climbed, the elevation provided a unique perspective on Grand Mesa’s geological features. We passed Forrest Lake and other ponds, encountering open hillsides with views of all the activity around the lakes below. Wildlife sightings and diverse flora added to the trail’s allure. We made our way to the West Trailhead and finally back to camp.

A Note on Beetle Kill Phenomenon

In recent years, Grand Mesa has been affected by the beetle kill phenomenon, where bark beetles infest and kill large numbers of trees. This has led to noticeable changes in the landscape along the Crag Crest Trail. While the beetle kill has resulted in increased dead and fallen trees, it has also opened up new vistas and allowed different plant species to thrive. The forest’s response to the beetle kill showcases the dynamic and resilient nature of these ecosystems. Hikers on the Crag Crest Trail can observe firsthand the effects of beetle kill and the ongoing natural processes of regeneration and adaptation within Grand Mesa National Forest.

Reflection

As we packed up our campsite and prepared to leave Grand Mesa National Forest, we couldn’t help but reflect on the memories we created during our stay. The time spent together, the joy of watching our dogs romp through the forest, and the serene moments by the lake are experiences we will cherish forever.

Camping at Grand Mesa allowed us to disconnect from our daily routines and reconnect with nature in a profound way. Whether fishing in crystal-clear lakes, hiking through lush forests, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air, Grand Mesa reminded us of the beauty and simplicity of outdoor life.

Grand Mesa not only offered us adventure and relaxation but also a chance to reflect on the things that truly matter—friendship, nature, and the joy of exploration. We left with our hearts full and minds refreshed, already dreaming of our next adventure in this incredible wilderness.

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To view our previous adventures at Grand Mesa, check out these posts: