What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Liberty Cap Short Hike
The Liberty Cap Short Hike is a moderate out-and-back trail near Grand Junction. Hikers and trail runners alike enjoy this quiet, scenic trail. The area is mostly open and offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons and plains. Note that the Liberty Cap Short Hike is at the Colorado National Monument, which requires a fee to enter.
Length: 3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Mica Mines Trail
Another lovely hike in the Grand Junction area is the Mica Mines trail, which is suitable for just about anyone, regardless of skill level. The rocky area is covered in beautiful wildflowers and other vegetation. Because it's a fairly short and easy trail to navigate, it tends to be pretty busy during peak times. Hikers are welcome to bring their dogs with them, but they must keep them leashed.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Connected Lakes Trail
Located at nearby Connected Lakes State Park, the Connected Lakes Trail will take you on a pleasant hike around several peaceful bodies of water. The trail isn't strenuous; visitors of all ability levels can enjoy a quiet stroll through picturesque scenery. While walking or running the trail, keep your eyes open for interesting birds and local wildlife.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing & Boating
Visitors to Bangs Canyon OHV Trails BLM site have numerous nearby fishing spots to choose from. One excellent choice is the Colorado River, which features calm waters perfect for angling. Largemouth bass, rainbow trout, catfish, black crappie, and walleye are just a few of the fish you might reel in on the river. Other good fishing destinations in the area include the Connected Lakes and the Vega Reservoir. As for boating, the Colorado River is also the perfect place for a day of paddleboarding, kayaking, tubing, or floating.
Climbing
The Greater Grand Junction area features quite a few great places for rock climbing. Perhaps the best destination is Unaweep Canyon, which boasts over 2,300 different climbing routes. The routes at the site offer a variety of difficulties and types of climbing, with everything from multi-pitch trad routes to bolted sport-climbing routes. Additionally, there are plenty of excellent bouldering opportunities in the area.
Wildlife Viewing
If you're near the Bangs Canyon OHV Trails area and searching for wildlife observation opportunities, head west to the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. There, you'll find the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness, which is home to many remarkable species. Mountain lions, deer, and desert bighorn sheep roam the area's canyons. Be sure to check the skies as well — bald and golden eagles are both spotted regularly there.
Picnicking
While there are undoubtedly many pleasant places to enjoy a picnic near the BLM site, you may not find any tables or shelters on-site. You'll likely want to bring along a picnic blanket and be ready to hunt down the perfect spot to lay it out. The Gunnison River lies a short distance north, so consider selecting a quiet area near the riverbank to enjoy your snack or meal.
OHV Riding
Off-roaders flock to Bangs Canyon OHV Trails. The site features thousands of acres of trails. Visitors will find single-track motorcycle trails, ATV trails, rock-crawling Jeep trails, and four-wheel-drive roads. Riders can explore canyons, plateaus, slick rock, and breathtaking scenery in every direction. With so many trails to choose from, riders of all experience and skill levels will find plenty of fun.
