Thanksgiving brought an influx of travelers through Grand Junction, Colorado, with people navigating interstates, airports, and scenic byways to celebrate the holiday in their own unique ways. From road trips to local outdoor adventures, the stories highlighted a mix of tradition, spontaneity, and personal flair.
Crossing States for the Holiday
The bustling traffic on Interstate 70 was a testament to the holiday’s draw. With an Annual Average Daily Traffic count of 23,000 vehicles, the Colorado Department of Transportation confirmed the season’s heavy travel flow.
Jacob, a young traveler from Tacoma, Washington, shared his excitement about heading to Arches National Park. “We’re going to Arches,” he said, reflecting the spirit of exploration that defined many holiday plans.
Meanwhile, airports were no less busy, greeting a steady stream of Thanksgiving arrivals. Cason and Clerissa, who flew in from Tucson, Arizona, remarked on their smooth travel experience. “It actually went smoothly for once,” they noted with relief.
Staying Local and Embracing Nature
Not all Thanksgiving plans involved long journeys. Some Grand Junction residents chose to stay closer to home, enjoying the local beauty and festive vibes.
Jay, a local resident, combined adventure with tradition. “Today I was gonna go out and fly for a while with some paragliders,” he said, adding that he planned to head to Glenwood Springs for family time and snowboarding later in the week.
Others found a personal connection to nature during the holiday. Jacob Membreno celebrated his birthday with his dog on a hike in the mountains. “I celebrate Thanksgiving by hiking,” he shared. For him, the crisp weather and scenic trails were the perfect way to mark the occasion.
Traveler Reflections and Pro Tips
Amid their holiday adventures, travelers shared their thoughts on the season and advice for others.
Membreno appreciated the pleasant weather, noting, “It’s nice today, not too cold.” For Cason, timing was everything. “I think we would have preferred to come earlier, but it probably made the airports easier,” he admitted.
And while holiday travel can sometimes be hectic, these seasoned travelers had tips to make it smoother:
- Jay: “Be aware of people around you.”
- Membreno: “Stay safe, especially on the highway.”
- Clerissa: “Wear comfortable shoes.”
A Holiday of Unique Journeys
Whether hiking with a dog, snowboarding after Thanksgiving dinner, or flying across states to reunite with loved ones, each traveler’s experience offered a glimpse into the diversity of holiday traditions. For these individuals, Thanksgiving was not just about the destination—it was also about the journey and the memories made along the way.
