Grand Junction sits on Colorado's Western Slope at the gateway to two of the state's most underrated climbing destinations. Colorado National Monument rises dramatically above the city, offering sandstone towers, crack systems, and canyon walls in a desert landscape that feels more like Utah than Colorado. Just to the south, Unaweep Canyon cuts through the Uncompahgre Plateau with quality granite trad climbing and a solitude that's rare on the more trafficked Front Range climbing areas.

The two areas couldn't be more different in character. Colorado National Monument delivers bold desert climbing on warm sandstone with sweeping views of the Grand Valley, while Unaweep Canyon offers a quieter, more committing trad experience on clean granite crack systems away from the crowds. Together they cover a broad range of styles and grades that make Grand Junction a more versatile climbing destination than most people expect.

Colorado Climbing Company's mountain guides know both areas well and can match the day to your goals and experience level. Whether you're drawn to the dramatic scenery of Colorado National Monument or looking to explore the hidden granite of Unaweep Canyon, Grand Junction is a Western Slope climbing destination worth building a trip around.