WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Delta County Tourism Cabinet invites travelers to check out the adventure-filled summer vacation opportunities available in Western Colorado this summer. A large portion of Delta County's public lands are designated as wilderness areas, perfect for the adventure-lover looking to escape from it all.
The Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area, Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area and Wilderness, and the West Elk Wilderness combine with the Grand Mesa, Uncompaghre, and Gunnison National Forests to create an adventure lover's paradise! Here are just five ways the Delta County Tourism Cabinet recommends adrenaline junkies get their fix on 'Our Side of the Divide'.
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Rock Climbing
Delta County is part of two separate mountain ranges – the West Elks and the Grand Mesa, one of the world's largest flat-topped mountains. Rock climbers revel at the peaks in Delta County that range from 5,000 ft. to more than 11,000 ft. The rugged Escalante Canyon is one of the best climbing areas in Western Colorado. The canyon is located near the town of Delta at the northeastern edge of the Colorado Plateau. Needle Rock, a 7,874-ft. peak near Crawford, is another well-liked climb and is considered Delta County's most technically challenging summit.
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Mountain Biking
Delta County's single and dual track scene is something to experience, with a number of dirt road and off-road trails. Across the Uncompaghre Plateau is the well-known Tabeguache Trail that includes routes for riders of any experience level. The 22-mile-long Sidewinder Trail is the newest addition in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area and is already gaining in popularity with experienced riders. The Sidewinder is also open for hikers, horses and motorcycles, so bikers should be prepared to share the trail.
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Whitewater Adventure
The Gunnison Gorge is also a popular wilderness whitewater destination for rafters, kayakers and whitewater canoeists. The area is dam-controlled and typically features Class II-IV rapids from May to September. Fees apply. For a milder ride, visitors should consider putting in on the Gunnison River at Confluence Park in Delta and floating to Escalante Canyon.
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Backcountry Hiking
Delta County is diverse in its terrain and offers numerous hiking trails and peaks to summit. From canyon floors to alpine heights, hikers are sure to find just what they are looking for in Delta County. The 10-mile Crag Crest National Recreation Trail runs along the spine of the Grand Mesa and offers amazing 360-degree views. Mt. Lamborn is located in the West Elk Mountains, about 30 miles east of the town of Delta. This subalpine peak requires a moderate, full-day hike.
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Off-Roading
Many of Delta County's BLM-run recreational areas allow four-wheeling and other off-road adventures. Dinosaur Quarry Loop is a favorite off-road trail that is typically accessible from June until November. The route is about 60 miles long and is located just outside of the town of Delta. The above-mentioned Sidewinder trail is also all the rage for dirt bikers and motorcyclists.
About Delta County - www.deltacountycolorado.com
Delta County, Colo., is located on Colorado's western slope at the base of Grand Mesa, one of the largest flat top mountains in the world. An agricultural and heritage hotbed, this region is home to the communities of Cedaredge, Crawford, Delta, Eckert, Hotchkiss, Orchard City and Paonia.
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The following files are available for download:
| wkr0001.pdf | |
| [Image] | Four Wheeling on Grand Mesa - courtesy of Delta County Tourism Cabinet |
| [Image] | Whitewater rafting - courtesy of Delta County Tourism Cabinet |
| [Image] | Outdoor adventure - courtesy of Delta County Tourism Cabinet |