north fork valley, colorado
The North Fork Valley lies hidden below the 12,000-foot peaks of the West Elk Wilderness, bordered by the Black Canyon of the Gunnison and a vast maze of desert canyons. This land is blessed with a climate that supports farms, orchards and vineyards; and a culture that supports artists of all disciplines. Whether you have come to experience nature, sip award winning wines, view fine art or visit an organic farm, there is no place in the world like the North Fork Valley.
Wine Country
The West Elk American Viticultural Area (AVA) ranges in elevation from 5,000 to 6,500 feet, making this one of the highest wine growing regions in the world. Cool nights and low humidity create a unique climate suited to grow the finest Pinot Noir and Riesling in Colorado. Follow the West Elk Wine trail to vineyards and wineries around the valley.
Locally Grown Food
Fresh organic produce are the staple foods of the North Fork Valley. Many organic farms dot the countryside. Organic orchards along the highway offer "you pick" peaches and delicious hand-crafted cider. Dependent on the season, you can find cherries, apricots, peaches, plums, strawberries, apples, nectarines and many more of your favorite fruits growing on local trees and vines. Stay for dinner and pair a bottle of north fork wine with your favorite locally sourced meats.
Natural Wonders
Experience nature at its best around this scenic valley. A short drive through the countryside takes you to the edge of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Narrow, polished walls plunge 2,000 feet to the Gunnison River below. Breathtaking vistas are in no shortage on any of the nature trails along the rim. Just down steam lies the angler's paradise of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Trout abound in theses gold medal waters. Hikers and Mountain bikers alike will enjoy the trail network at Jumbo mountain, just behind the town of Paonia. The ancient volcanic neck of Needle Rock juts 800 feet vertically out of the earth near the rural town of Crawford and can be accessed by nature trail.
Art and culture
A Colorado Creative District, the Valley is home to blacksmiths, painters, musicians, glass blowers, and artisans of all disciplines. Local exhibits can be found at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts in Paonia, and the Creamery Arts Center in Hotchkiss. Live music can be heard at the Blue Sage, the Paradise Theater, and outdoors in Town Park.
Western Slope SUP is pleased to be a part this amazing valley. Our neighborhood is full of phenomenal opportunities to recreate, taste great food and wine, and experience fine art. Stop in and let us share some friendly local knowledge during your next trip to the North Fork Valley!
things to do
Wineries
Leroux Creek Vineyards
Located on the flanks of the Grand Mesa, just outside of Hotchkiss, your hosts Yvon and Joanna provide a one of a kind experience on their 54 acre farm, vineyard and inn. The vineyard produces Chambourcin and Cayuga grapes which are artfully created into award winning wines. Let Yvon share his passion for wine and French cooking with you. Ask about weekly events, private picnics, and tastings!
Stone Cottage Cellars
Family owned and operated since 1994, Brent and Karen invite you to experience their labor of love which is Stone Cottage Cellars. This uniquely Coloradan vineyard produces first rate Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Merlot. Come for a tasting, meal or to spend a night in the Stone Cottage!
Cycling
SK Bikes
Need a tune up or advice on local rides? Renowned cyclist and local Scott Shishim will have you on the trial or cruising down a county road in no time. With 25 years of bike repair experience, there is nothing Scott can't fix. Stop in and ask about single track riding at Jumbo Mountain or some of the best road rides in the state. Located in downtown Paonia.
The Cirque Cyclery
The Cirque is the epicenter of cycling in Paonia. They offer bicycle and electric bicycle rentals, as well as tours of the beautiful surrounding country side. Want to visit an organic flower farm? How about a tour based around wineries and breweries? Maybe the local mountain bike trails are more your speed? Every tour is uniquely catered to your interests. After the trip pull up a chair at Remedy Juice Bar, located in the same building. Enjoy a smoothie or cold pressed organic juice!
Hard Cider and Craft Beer
Big B's Delicious Orchards
Stop in and pick a bag of peaches, cherries or apples in the orchard. When you are done, come into the tasting room and see how the artisans at Big B's craft those fruits into juices and hard ciders. Try a flight or a choose a pint of your favorite cider. For the full experience ask about overnight camping in the orchard!
Chrysalis Brewery
The Brewery is located in Paonia Colorado, a town steeped in community values and historic traditions. Paonia has the highest percentage of organic farms and orchards per capita in the state of Colorado. Besides growing their own barley Chrysalis relies heavily on the surrounding orchards and farms to source the best ingredients available to create an “Origin Beer” which is unique and unlike any other beer in the state. Chryslis beers and flavors start from the ground up right here in the North Fork Valley.
Organic Farms and You Pick Orchards
The Living Farm
Experience organic, self-sustaining farming in action on a guided or self-guided tour of The Living Farm. The chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, cows, sheep and goats love to be held and pet! Find out about their perpetual greens harvest and learn how to create your own "eternal salad bar". Witness how the integration of plants and animals achieves the ultimate in sustainability practices.
Orchard Valley Farms and Black Bridge Winery
From Raspberries and Blackberries to peaches, nectarines, cherries, apples and pumpkins; Orchard Valley Farms is a fresh fruit lover's dream. Pick your own, or purchase at their on-site farm market. Wander the trails through the orchards, vineyards and garden or have a picnic beside the peaceful river. Don't forget to visit the Black Bridge Winery tasting room for some of the best vintages the North Fork Valley has to offer!
Lodging
North fork tipi haven
Conveniently located midway between the historic North Fork towns of Paonia and Hotchkiss, The North Fork Tipi Haven is based on a 22 verdant acres. A small stream runs just behind the tipis, and a green lawn sprawls in front. Each tipi has a new IKEA foam mattress, solar lighting, solar shower, and access to a camp kitchen. Near orchards and wineries.
Kebler Corner
Looking to get away and unplug? Stay at Kebler Corner where you can unwind in convenient accommodations. They offer an array of eight tiny-home style cabins, full RV hook-ups and primitive tent sites. Enjoy the breathtaking views with a variety of on-site amenities including river access, fishing and wi-fi access. If you are looking for a memorable vacation experience in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado – look no further!
sage view ranch
If you like nature you will LOVE Sage View Ranch. Nestled in the North Fork valley of Colorado this 11.5-acre space offers you a place to park your RV, tent camp, bus glamp, stay in the main house or make this the hosting spot for your special event or destination wedding. Customized to your desire by renting all part of or all of this magical space in Paonia Colorado.
Agape Farm and Retreat
Amazing beauty and tranquility will surround you in this exquisite Paonia bed and breakfast. You will wander through beautiful gardens, lush grounds, a vibrant Pinot Gris vineyard and you will get to the property’s most beautiful space, the three-acre pine forest with its towering trees. You will want to sit and meditate, read or write a book, paint, dance, sing, or just talk to these beautiful trees, and be taken by their energy and their amazing presence.
Wisehart Springs Inn
Come stay in a sculpture! Art Wisehart and his family have transformed this unusual house with round rooms and turrets into a craftsman's refuge. The Wisehart Springs Inn is a family owned business located on 40 acres in the North Fork Valley. Natural springs run on the property which contribute to its beauty. Their vision is to provide a stunning setting in which explore the valley and its many wonderful attributes. With majestic views and a lofty great room, it is perfect for weddings and events.
Bross Hotel
This 110-year-old historic Victorian lodge is the most prominent building in Paonia. The hotel is located just one block from downtown and a short walk from parks and riverside trails. Rocking chairs on the front porch invite you to sit and enjoy the shade of the large cottonwood trees. The rooms and interior will wrap you in the warm, welcoming comfort of an earlier era.
where is the North Fork Valley?
The North Fork Valley, home to the towns of Paonia, Hotchkiss, and Crawford, is tucked away on Colorado’s Western Slope, centrally located between Grand Junction, Montrose, and Aspen. We are 40-minutes from the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, 30-minutes from the Grand Mesa, and 30-minutes from the West Elk Wilderness. The town of Hotchkiss forms the western edge of the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway. Our corner of Colorado maintains its country charm due to its hidden rural setting, nestled between the world’s largest flat-top mountain, the world’s largest collection of volcanic “laccolith” mountains, and of course, the Black Canyon. We are not on the way to anywhere, but once you are here, there is no place else you will want to be.
directions
From Montrose, CO: 50 minutes
Follow US 50 West to Delta, CO. Turn right on Colorado State Highway 92. Follow highway 92 for 20 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss.
From Grand Junction, co: 1 hour
From downtown Grand Junction, take US 50 East across the Colorado River bridge. Follow US 50 East to Delta, CO. Turn left onto State Highway 92. Follow highway 92 for 20 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss.
From Aspen, CO: 2 hours
Follow Colorado State Highway 82 west towards Carbondale. Turn right on Colorado State Highway 133. Follow 133 90 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss.
From Denver, CO: 4 hours
Follow interstate 70 west out of town. At Glenwood Springs, exit onto Colorado State Highway 82 East. Follow Highway 82 10 minutes towards Carbondale. At the stop light, turn right onto Colorado State Highway 133. Follow Highway 133 for 90 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss.