Gateway, Colorado

Situated on Colorado’s Western Slope, Gateway is a tiny unincorporated community. The town lies an hour southwest of Grand Junction and an hour north of Naturita. It’s home to a beautiful resort and spa and a few local businesses.

There’s a post office in town that’s been operating since 1903 under the zip code 81522. Gateway was probably named for a rock formation that existed by the original townsite nearby. The Mesa County town resides at an elevation of 4,613′ along the Unaweep Tabeguache Byway (Highway 141).

Main Attractions

Outdoor pool at a luxury resort — Dusk settling in over the pool at the Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa. Photo by: facebook.com/gatewaycanyons

Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa – One of Colorado’s finest luxury resorts, which was also named one of the top in the world. The property includes spectacular views of the surrounding area on over 500 acres of land. There are plenty of luxurious amenities to make your stay unforgettable and peaceful.

Gateway Auto Museum – One of the country’s best collections of American automobiles, with just over forty vintage cars in the Hendricks Collection. You’ll find something new each time you visit this thoughtful display of cars, and many one-of-a-kind models.

Recreation

Unaweep Seep Natural Area Panorama Gateway Colorado — Unaweep Seep Natural Area panorama near Gateway, CO. Photo by: Scott Ingram

Camping –

Gateway Public Grounds Campground is a dispersed camping area managed by the BLM. There are plenty of designated spots scattered off a paved road that is accessible for 2WD vehicles. No running water or amenities.
Gateway Glamping offers two large canvas tents complete with king-sized beds, linens, a shower, and a BBQ pit. The grounds are open seasonally from April to October.
Read about the camping near Naturita, Norwood, Nucla and Gateway.

Fishing – The Dolores River cuts right through town and offers a great place to cast a line for brown and rainbow trout.

Hiking – Gateway Trails has a trailhead off Gateway Center Drive with access to a large trail system that runs throughout the land that sits west of town.

Accommodations

Highway 141 North of Gateway CO — On Highway 141 north of Gateway, CO. Photo by: Michael Pujals

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Booking.com

Gateway Canyons Resort – There are 3 room types to choose from at this sprawling resort: a quaint Casita that sleeps 2, a Kiva Lodge suite with a patio and fireplace (and sometimes even a private spa), or the largest option, the Kayenta Lodge. Each of the 72 accommodation options boasts beautiful Southwestern decor touches to really connect you with the energy of Colorado’s western slope.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option head an hour south and there are a few hotels in Naturita, or an hour north you’ll find more options in Grand Junction.

Dining

Bar in restaurant — The beautiful bar at Paradox Grille in Gateway, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/paradoxgrille

Paradox Grille – This casual eatery is within the Gateway Canyons resort and is the only spot in town to grab a bite. They serve up Southwestern-style food and have a full bar.