Sunset Lake sits on the Grand Mesa in Mesa County, Colorado, at over 9,000 feet elevation, and it lives up to its name. Visitors who time their arrival for evening are rewarded with some of the most striking sunset views on the entire mesa, as the sun drops behind the western horizon and paints the lake surface in warm light. This is one of those Colorado destinations where the scenery alone justifies the trip.
The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world, and Sunset Lake occupies a prime spot within the Grand Mesa National Forest. The lake is easily accessible from the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway (Highway 65), making it a convenient stop for visitors driving the byway between Grand Junction and Cedaredge. During winter months, the lake freezes solid, attracting visitors who snowshoe or cross-country ski through the surrounding forest. Even in frozen conditions, the views and mountain air make Sunset Lake worth the visit.
Fishing is available at Sunset Lake, with the natural high-elevation setting providing habitat for trout species common to Grand Mesa waters. One reviewer describes fishing here in a natural flavor — unhurried, scenic, and connected to the mountain environment rather than focused purely on catch counts. The lake's position above 9,000 feet keeps water temperatures cold, supporting healthy fish populations through the summer months.
Sunset Lake is a dog-friendly destination. Visitors bring their dogs to enjoy the shoreline and surrounding trails, and at least one reviewer specifically noted their dog loved the experience. The open terrain and lakeside setting give dogs room to explore under supervision.
The area sees four distinct seasons, each with its own appeal. Summer brings wildflowers and warm afternoons ideal for picnicking and fishing. Fall transforms the mesa with golden aspen displays that draw leaf-peepers from across western Colorado. Winter freezes the landscape into a quiet snowscape. Spring brings snowmelt and the gradual return of access to the higher-elevation roads.
Facilities at Sunset Lake are limited, though the broader Grand Mesa area offers campgrounds, picnic areas, and developed recreation sites at nearby lakes. The Grand Mesa Lodge and other small businesses along the byway provide food and lodging options for visitors planning an extended stay.
For visitors exploring the Grand Mesa who want a lake with genuine atmosphere and one of the best sunset vantage points in western Colorado, Sunset Lake is a must-stop destination any time of year.