HOTEL MAVERICK

Hotel Maverick sits inside Colorado Mesa University’s campus in Grand Junction, but its real address is the red rock canyon country all around it: the Colorado National Monument fifteen minutes away, the Colorado River running through Westwater Canyon for whitewater rafting, and more than 30 mountain biking trails within a short drive. 60 guest rooms and suites, most from 305 to 468 square feet, with reclaimed wood furnishings and a rooftop restaurant on the fourth floor. Rooms generally run $199–$450 a night depending on season.

WHERE: Grand Junction, Colorado, on the campus of Colorado Mesa University.

WHY WE WANT TO BOOK IT: This is a hotel built for people who came to Grand Junction for the outdoors — no confusion there. Complimentary bicycles and access to CMU’s Hamilton Recreation Center and adjacent BMX pump track mean you’re moving within minutes of checking in. The Colorado National Monument’s slickrock canyons are 15 minutes away, Westwater Canyon’s whitewater rapids on the Colorado River are a short drive south, and Powderhorn Mountain Resort — built on what’s billed as the world’s largest flattop mountain — is 40 miles out for skiing and snowboarding in winter. Grand Junction’s high-desert climate means most of it is doable year-round.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring and fall bring the mildest temperatures for hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing in the Colorado National Monument and Bangs Canyon. Summer means whitewater rafting on the Colorado River and vineyard tours in nearby Palisade. Winter shifts the action to Powderhorn Mountain Resort and the Grand Mesa Nordic Trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

WHAT ROOM SHOULD I BOOK? The Veranda Suite (468 sq. ft.) has a west-facing balcony built for watching the sun set over the red rock canyons — the largest room in the hotel, with a separate living room area. Traveling with a group after a day on the trails? The Maverick King Bunk Bed room sleeps four.

WHO WILL FEEL RIGHT AT HOME HERE? Hikers, mountain bikers, and river rafters who want a home base close to the trailhead, families visiting CMU or exploring the Colorado National Monument together, and dog owners — Hotel Maverick is dog-friendly, with plenty of trail access to burn off the extra energy.

WHAT ELSE IS CALLING MY NAME? Devil’s Kitchen, the rooftop restaurant and bar on the fourth floor, pairs a regionally-driven menu with panoramic views of the Grand Mesa and the Colorado National Monument — worth timing for sunset. Betty’s Gourmet Coffee handles the other end of the day, open at 6 a.m. for locally-sourced baked goods and coffee before an early trailhead start. Complimentary bicycles and a 2,963-square-foot outdoor terrace round out a stay built around being outside.

WHAT ABOUT THE RATES? Rates vary by season and room type, generally running $199–$450 a night, with an additional nightly resort fee. Rates climb during CMU campus events and peak outdoor seasons. Check the hotel’s website for the most current pricing.

Hotel Maverick 840 Kennedy Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501 | (970) 822-4888

Book directly for the best rates and promotions: thehotelmaverick.com

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

What outdoor activities are closest to Hotel Maverick?

The Colorado National Monument is 14.9 miles away for hiking and rock climbing on red rock slickrock. Devil’s Kitchen Trail, a popular hiking and horseback riding route, is 6.2 miles from the hotel. For mountain biking, Lunch Loop Trailhead — gateway to dozens of trails — is 3.9 miles out.

Is Hotel Maverick a good base for whitewater rafting?

Yes. The Colorado River runs through the region, with outfitters like Adventure Bound USA (5.2 miles) and Rimrock Adventures (13 miles) running trips, including through Westwater Canyon further south.

What about skiing and snowboarding?

Powderhorn Mountain Resort, built on what’s billed as the world’s largest flattop mountain, is about 40 miles from the hotel and offers more than 40 slopes. The Grand Mesa Nordic Trails, roughly 50 miles out, cover cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

Can I bring my own bike, or rent one at the hotel?

Hotel Maverick offers complimentary bicycles for guests, plus access to CMU’s adjacent BMX pump track and outdoor rental equipment. More than 30 mountain biking trails are within a short drive of the property.

Is Hotel Maverick dog-friendly for outdoor trips?

Yes — dog-friendly rooms are available, which matters given how much of the surrounding terrain, including hiking trails, the Colorado National Monument, and Bangs Canyon, is dog-accessible.

What’s within walking distance if I want a break from the outdoors?

Downtown Grand Junction’s shops, galleries and music venues are just over a mile from the hotel, and the property sits directly on the Colorado Mesa University campus.