Mack Mesa Lake is a small fishing lake on the Grand Mesa in Mesa County, Colorado, one of dozens of alpine lakes scattered across this massive flat-topped mountain that rises above the Colorado River valley near Grand Junction. Sitting at approximately 9,800 feet elevation, the lake offers anglers a chance at cutthroat trout in a compact, accessible setting surrounded by the spruce-fir forests that blanket the Grand Mesa.
Fishing is the headline activity at Mack Mesa Lake. Visitors have landed nice cutthroat trout here, and the clear water conditions make it an appealing spot for anglers who prefer sight-fishing or working lures through clean water. The lake is small enough to cover thoroughly from shore, though results vary — some visitors report excellent catches while others come away empty-handed. This inconsistency is typical of the smaller Grand Mesa lakes, where fish populations fluctuate with stocking schedules and seasonal conditions.
The setting is modest but functional. Mack Mesa Lake has limited tree cover around its shoreline, which means shade is scarce on sunny days and wind can be a factor. Visitors should come prepared with sun protection and layered clothing, as conditions at nearly 10,000 feet can shift quickly. A few shaded spots exist along portions of the shore, but most of the lake is open and exposed.
Mack Mesa Lake is best understood as one stop on a broader Grand Mesa fishing itinerary rather than a standalone destination. The Grand Mesa hosts over 300 lakes and reservoirs within the Grand Mesa National Forest, and many visitors spend a day or weekend driving between several lakes to find the best bite. Popular nearby options include Island Lake, Ward Lake, and Cottonwood Lake, all accessible via Grand Mesa Scenic Byway.
Access is via forest roads off the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway (Highway 65), which connects Mesa and Delta counties. The road is paved and well-maintained, though the turnoffs to individual lakes may be gravel or dirt. The Grand Mesa is typically accessible from late May through October, with the best fishing from June through September.
Facilities at Mack Mesa Lake itself are minimal. For more developed amenities including restrooms, camping, and boat ramps, head to the larger lakes on the mesa such as Island Lake or Ward Lake. The nearby town of Cedaredge on the south side of the mesa and the city of Grand Junction to the west both offer full services.
For anglers exploring the Grand Mesa who want a quieter alternative to the more popular lakes, Mack Mesa Lake is worth a stop — particularly for those targeting cutthroat trout in clear mountain water.