Those who are lucky enough to grow up in, or stumble upon Delta County, are able to appreciate just how fortunate we really are to call this side of the Divide home. In our opinions there really is no other part of this state that is as centrally located to all of the immense amenities this state has to offer.
We are surrounded by mountain ranges (the West Elks, the Raggeds, the Uncompahgre and the gorgeous San Juans); great mesas (Grand Mesa, Blue Mesa); canyons (Black Canyon, Escalante and Dominguez Canyons); hot springs (Glenwood and Ouray); ski resorts, Powderhorn, Telluride, Aspen, Beaver Creek, Vail, Crested Butte, National Forests (Gunnison, Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre).
Hunting, camping, fishing, hiking, boating, horseback riding, downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, and rafting are very common daily occurrences for many of us who live on the Western Slope. Many of the population here make living an active, healthy life, a priority. No traffic jams (except for the occasional cattle drive), fantastic scenery, and milder temperatures make this area the best kept secret of Colorado. We are being discovered by those that want a better quality of life and at a fraction of the cost.
We are home to the Grand Mesa, which is the largest flat top mountain in the world, which offers over 300 (yes 300) lakes, and is becoming a sought-after destination. Whatever direction the highway or dirt road takes you, you will find adventure and beauty.
Delta County real estate prices are still low compared to the rest of the state, making it possible to buy substantial land if you so choose. Whether you have a need for seclusion, or to own your own adventure park, this county is the perfect last great place to do so. There is access to National Forests within 20 miles or less from your home, from whatever town you choose to live in.
Paonia provides a great music and festival scene, with its weekly events throughout the spring, summer and fall. Paonia also provides access to Kebler Pass which takes you through one of the largest aspen stands in the world, that then delivers you to the historic ski town of Crested Butte.
Crawford and Hotchkiss offer their own unique secluded back country adventures, and is a short jaunt to the Black Canyon and Gunnison Gorge. Cedaredge is the Gateway to the Grand Mesa. It hosts the annual Applefest, and is the perfect small town for seclusion and beauty, being located just below Grand Mesa National Forest boundary.
Delta is our county seat, and is nestled between Grand Junction and Montrose. Delta is also a short drive to Gateway, with the scenic red rock canyons. Grand Junction and Fruita have the Colorado National Monument, and is a well known mountain biking destination. Another hour outside of Grand Junction you can drive right into the heart of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in Utah, Moab being a revered mountain biking and climbing destination.
We have an abundance of wineries and vineyards across the county due to our mild weather. Organic farms are also throughout the county, providing some of the best produce in the state. Discovery and adventure could be the theme of our county, we hope you will consider discovering and enjoying Our Side of the Divide.