Date Hiked: April 29, 2023

Distance: 1.5 mi (RT)

Elevation Gain: 100 ft

Elevation Min/Max: 4,728 to 4,789 ft

Trailhead Lat/Long: 39.28077, -108.84243

Managing Agency: CO Division of Parks & Wildlife

Fee: Yes

HIKE DESCRIPTION:

Highline Lake State Park is situated between the Book Cliffs and Grand Junction and is a great spot for a low key hike, especially at sunset or sunrise. There is a large trail system in the park but a great option is to hike around the smaller Mack Mesa Lake and add on a quick climb up to the Mack Mesa Overlook.

The hike starts at the Mack Mesa Trailhead which is at the very end of the main park road, 11 1/2 Road. I suggest starting the hike by heading west along the Mack Mesa S’s Trail (weird name). This trail takes you away from the lake and up on Mack Mesa for a view of the surrounding area before returning to the Mack Mesa Lake shoreline. Then follow the Mack Mesa Loop trail along the north shore of the lake and around to the east side. From here, take the Mack Mesa Overlook trail up to the top of a small but pronounced hill for more birds eye views. Then head back to the east shore of Mack Mesa Lake and back to the trailhead.

At only 1.5 miles, this is a nice and easy hike with great views of the lakes and the Book Cliffs, go at sunset for even better views and some peace and quiet.