The grand valley has a number of amazing hikes in every direction. The Grand Mesa is full of lakes and trails that wind through cooling pines; the Bookcliffs are home to Mount Garfield, probably one of the most popular and iconic hikes in the area; and the Colorado National Monument, which is so full of trails, even when the parking lots are full, chances of running into many people are slim. And don't forget Little Park Road for access to more trails behind the Monument, as well as the Palisade Rim. That's enough options to take a different trail every week for years! And what better way to end an epic outdoor adventure than with a nice, chilled beer from a local brewery? The grand valley may not have as many breweries as Denver, but our few have become staples in the community and the state. From OGs such as Palisade Brewing Company, Rockslide, Kannah Creek and Copper Club, to new and exciting places like Monumental Beer Works, there are many opportunities to try a beer made in your own backyard. Every week I'll be showcasing a different trail and beer to give both locals and travelers a sense of what the valley has to offer.
For this first edition of "Up a Mountain, Down a Beer" I went with one of the most popular, albeit challenging, hikes combined with my favorite local brewery. Mount Garfield and the Palisade Brewing Company. Mount Garfield is one of the first landmarks that people see when coming into the valley from the east on I-70. It juts out of the Bookcliff mountain range and if you look closely you can spot the American flag at the top which is the final destination for this incredibly steep trail. Today was only the second time I've ever done this hike, the first being ten years ago, and it was definitely a challenge. Pulling into the parking lot, I could see immediately that the first leg of the hike is practically straight up with no shade or protection. Wind was also adding to the challenge today and I wish I had brought my poles for balance. As I began the ascent of nearly 2,000 feet in 2 miles, I realized I did not do myself any favors by not exercising enough over my Covid quarantine (if we're being honest, I was leaning a little heavier on the beer side of my two favorite pastimes). I stopped quite a few times to catch my breath but pretended I did it to really take in the view. I must admit, I'm glad no one was around. I love having trails to myself and today I was lucky enough to do that, although it was because no one else was crazy to do such a sun-exposed hike in the near 100 degree weather. Maybe the wind was a blessing after all. The view at the top of a trail is almost always worth it though, and sometimes it feels that much sweeter when it was difficult. I felt like I earned that view. And of course . . . a beer.
MOUNT GARFIELD in a nutshell:
Distance: 3.8 mile out and back
Elevation Gain: 1,886 feet
Difficulty rating: Hard
Dog friendly/family friendly: Yes with leash/Yes if they're in good shape! This hike has steep drop-off edges and also requires climbing near the top. Not necessarily recommended for small children.
I brought with me two beers from Palisade Brewery. The "dirty hippie" which is probably their most popular beer, and the "Let it Grow" IPA, but I'll focus on just the first today. A dark wheat, this beer is easy to drink, and has a refreshing flavor without any hoppy bitterness. Served often with an orange slice, this beer is for people who enjoy wheats such as Blue Moon or Agave Wheat from Breckenridge. I would say Dirty Hippie was one of the first craft beers I really enjoyed when I was younger . . . a solid gateway beer before I started appreciating hoppy double IPA's and rich barrel-aged imperial stouts. But we will talk about those another day! It's smooth and refreshing and I must say . . . tastes mighty fine after a couple hours of calf destruction.
DIRTY HIPPIE in a nutshell:
IBU: n/a
ABV: 5.3%
Tasting notes: Mild, slightly sweet, pairs well with an orange slice and a hike to Mount Garfield in the summer.
The best part about combining this hike with this brewery is the location! The brewery was less than a ten minute drive from the trailhead so I went afterwards for some lunch. They have a great list of sandwiches loaded with house-smoked meats, as well as several side selections and appetizers to go along with their full draft list. The patio has sun protection and a fire pit for winter nights, and an excellent view of the Bookcliffs. The view from the top of Garfield may have been amazing but the view OF Garfield from the brewery patio was pretty great too.
*Shoutout to Ron Martinez of "Craftin California" for permission to use his slogan, "up a mountain, down a beer" which is perfect for this feature. Thank you my friend!