Rifle is a friendly, small Colorado River town that makes a surprisingly comfortable multi-week base—immediate outdoor options (rafting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking), a compact downtown with cafés and breweries, and affordable lodging mean stays feel active and livable rather than isolated.
For bigger weekends and amenities, Grand Junction (regional shopping, wineries, larger healthcare scene) and Glenwood Springs (hot springs, extensive trails and ski access) are both roughly within an hour’s drive, so you won’t feel stuck.