Lands End Observatory: Grand Mesa's Crowning Vista

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Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the historic Lands End Observatory, perched atop the Grand Mesa in western Colorado.

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Lands End Observatory

Perched atop the Grand Mesa, Lands End Observatory offers panoramic views of western Colorado and eastern Utah. Built in the late 1930s, this historic ranger observatory provides a stunning vantage point to admire the surrounding landscapes, including the San Juan Mountains and the Colorado River valley.

A brief summary to Lands End Observatory

Grand Junction, Colorado, 81501, US
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during the warmer months for the best access, as winter conditions can make the roads challenging.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the Grand Valley, Utah, and the distant mountain peaks.
Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions on the Grand Mesa can change rapidly.
Be aware that cattle may be roaming on the road, especially when approaching from the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway.

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Getting There

Driving

From Grand Junction, take I-70 East to SH-65 South towards the Grand Mesa. Follow SH-65 for approximately 19 miles, then turn right onto Lands End Road (Forest Rt. 100). Continue for 10 miles; the observatory will be on the right. Alternatively, take US-50 to Kannah Creek Road to Lands End Road for a more direct, but potentially more challenging, route up the side of the Mesa. Parking is available near the ranger station. There are no fees for parking or access.

Discover more about Lands End Observatory

Lands End Observatory, a historic ranger observatory, sits majestically on the rim of Colorado's Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-top mountain. Constructed between 1936 and 1937 by the U.S. Forest Service, with support from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the observatory showcases a rustic architectural style, harmonizing with its natural environment. Basalt stones, carefully selected from the mesa, form the walls and terrace of the building. Originally built as a ranger station and visitor center, Lands End Observatory provided essential services to travelers, including a primitive phone line and management of the nearby Wild Rose Campground and Picnic Area. Although the observatory building is currently boarded up, the site remains a popular destination for its unparalleled views. From this vantage point, visitors can see the Book Cliffs, the La Sal Mountains in Utah, the San Juan Mountains, and the Uncompahgre Wilderness. The road leading to Lands End Observatory, originally named Veteran's Road, was constructed by World War I veterans in the 1930s. These veterans, employed through President Roosevelt's New Deal programs, blasted and cleared the path, creating a legacy that continues to inspire awe. Today, visitors can drive to the observatory via Lands End Road or the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Grand Mesa National Forest along the way.