ACTIVITIES

It is time for an easy hike again, one that has little elevation change. We have done most of the riverside trail between Clifton and Fruita; but one section we have not completed until now: the middle section. We will start near the river confluence that made Grand Junction come to importance, founded near the junction of the Colorado (formerly called the Grand) and the Gunnison River. We will learn about the 1882 bank robbery by Robert Parker, later known as Butch Cassidy. We will cross under the 5-span railroad trestle (A train was going through when I checked it out.) and the 5th street Bridge with the support piers covered with art. We will pass close to the Colorado river and view waterfowl. We will find out where you can play frisbee golf. You will learn where Grand Junction has it's Renaissance Festival. We will walk near the Botanical Garden and view the DAR (Daughter of the American Revolution) Memorial Garden and the Pollinator Garden. The out-and-back walk will be about 4 miles and 2 hours. There are many benches alongside the path that you may rest until the group returns, or they may be a rest and reflection on a future walk with someone special.

We will meet at 0900, at a place that we have not met before: From Riverside Parkway, near the big oil tanks, in the Confluence area meet behind the new Starbucks Coffee ( 2601 Dos Rios Dr setting on Google Maps) in the parking lot closer to the Kids Bike area. (The kids should be in school so they will not bother us.)

Afterwards we can have coffee nearby or go to a local restaurant, if you wish.

--Domiguez Canyon.  This beautiful canyon in the National Conservation Area, supported by the group, Colorado Canyons Association, is one of Newcomers best hikes.  It is located near Whitewater off of Bridgeport Road.   (Bridgeport is a former bustling waterport on the Gunnison River.)  We will hike along the Gunnison River to access the canyon. We frequently see big-horned sheep racing up the canyon.  We will not hike the whole canyon but it will be a longer out-and-back hike, about 2.5 hours with about 200 feet elevation increase.  We will hike the canyon to the petroglyphs and then return.  Bring extra water and a snack. Weather will be sunny, with temperatures in the 60's to mid 70's.  Don't forget walking sticks, unless you never use them. 

   We will meet in a different area, City Market on Orchard Mesa, off HWY 50.  Meet in the SW  corner, on Thursday, at 0845.  We will carpool to the trailhead. 

   Afterwards, those that wish will eat at the Dragon Treasure in Orchard Mesa (They  have a buffet that is open until 3). unless you prefer Burger King--"Home of the Whopper".