When we think about winter in Colorado, we think about snow and lots of it. We think about powder-packed slopes. We think about Vail and Aspen and Breckenridge, among so many other destinations with big mountains to go with that big snow.

We don’t think about Grand Junction. But maybe we should, especially if we’re wanting a break from the bitter cold. Grand Junction averages about 16 inches of snow a year. Denver typically sees about 50 inches more.

Welcome to the Grand Valley.

Outdoor splendor

This could be your rare opportunity to ski and golf in one day.

No, Grand Junction can’t be called a ski town, but Powderhorn Mountain Resort is close enough. The slopes get high marks for tree skiing. And when you get back down, you might just find the fairways clear at one of the area’s four public golf courses.

The Grand Mesa is indeed your best bet for classic winter recreation. Snowmobiling and ice fishing are popular. But the main draw to Grand Junction is Colorado National Monument, a geologic dreamscape. Chances are good Rim Rock Drive will be snow-free. Or you can hike into the canyons and cathedrals.

Hit the town

Main Street is lined with several hip boutiques and galleries. That includes Pollux Clothing Co., specializing in women’s wear. Among the galleries is Uncanny Valley Art Gallery & Co-Op, with pieces by more than 30 local artists. Test your own creativity at Fat Cat Pottery, where you can play with paint and clay.

Score that perfect, thoughtful gift at Zesty Moose, selling homemade spices, olive oils, vinaigrettes and other gourmet blends. You can shop and drink from the in-house winery.

More promising finds are waiting at Robin’s Nest, a two-story emporium of antiques, gifts and jewelry that is said to be the biggest store of its kind between Denver and Salt Lake City. The biggest mall between those metros is Mesa Mall, where you’ll find your favorite chain stores and maybe even Santa.

Grand flavors

A farm-to-table philosophy prevails in Grand Junction, which makes sense considering the valley’s farmers, growers and winemakers.

For lunch, Cafe Sol comes highly recommended. A bright, yellow awning welcomes patrons — a hint at the bright, fresh flavors found inside. The soups, salads and paninis come from local, organic ingredients.

Bin 707 Foodbar is a similarly light and airy scene, with a similar approach to food. The seasonal menu is from the mind of Chef Josh Niernberg, who has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation. Taco Party is another concept of his — a fun place to mix and match pulled pork, pork belly, tempura and fried chicken.

Pablo’s Pizza is the family hangout. It’s named for Pablo Picasso, who would be proud of the inventiveness here where there’s a new pizza every week.

The Food Network series “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” hosted by Guy Fieri once featured The Feisty Pint, where gourmet pub grub meets two dozen beers on tap. Two oversized challenges include the Feisty Challenge Burger, with three angus patties coated in a spicy “mash,” and the Roadkill Challenge, with three pounds of tots, bacon, jalapeños, onions, cheese, green chili and a dozen eggs.