Coming in from Denver, what’s the best route, 70 to Grand Junction or 285?
Thanks
Our crew is biased toward the majestic views along 285 & 50. Not to say there aren’t beautiful sights along I-70 either, but eight years in a row and we’ve driven 285 & 50 every year. Sometimes it’s just nice to get off the interstate and take the slightly longer road to paradise! It’s so beautiful to see the Collegiate Peaks outside Buena Vista, Monarch Pass, Gunnison River, and the breathtaking views across the Blue Mesa Reservoir. Can’t wait.
Both routes take essentially the same amount of time. I prefer 285. It is prettier and not quite as hot as going from Grand Junction over. Plus I like the food stops along the way.
Safe travels…
I much prefer 285!
We like to take 70 to Glenwood for the time saving part of it and then take 133 from Carbondale over McClure Pass (8750) on 133 through Paonia to Delta and down the Western Slope. Still takes around 7 hours, still can shop in Montrose and the Crystal River valley in June is beautiful. It is also the beginning of cherry season in Paonia so always pick up some fresh fruit also. If not this time, try it sometime. It captures the huge variety of climates and landscapes here in CO.
This drive is absolutely beautiful. We did it once coming home a few years ago. Hope to do this again some year soon.
The drive on 285 to 50 is much more scenic than 70 to GJ. It can be a headache, though, if there’s a lot of construction. I like cotrip.org for information on planned road work, closures, etc. Happy and safe travels.
285 takes a lot less fuel.
I’ve taken 70 and use up almost a full (30 gal) tank, but when I take 285 it’s only 3/4 or less.
:thumbsup
Would be interested in advice on this as well! I’ll be making the trip from Denver once again this year, but this time towing a 17’ travel trailer. Not huge, and definitely easy to maneuver with, but still my longest drive to-date with it. Would that tilt the scale towards one of the two routes in anyone’s opinion? 
Awesome advice! Thanks everyone, I think I’ll try 285.
I drove the 285/50 route today from Denver. There was only 1 construction delay, which lasted about 10 minutes; a new record for me. It is really beautiful this year with a lot of snow still on the peaks and the fields are quite green from all the precipitation.
Highly recommended.
Watch for the Montrose speed trap