Chess Clubs in Clifton, Colorado. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Clifton, CO and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Clifton and nearby Western Slope communities have several options for organized play within reasonable driving distance. While Clifton itself currently lacks a dedicated chess club, nearby cities offer welcoming environments for players of all skill levels.
1. Grand Junction Chess Club
Location: Mesa County Libraries Central Branch – 443 N 6th St, Grand Junction, CO 81501
Description: Approximately 15 minutes from Clifton, this active club meets weekly. The group welcomes players of all abilities, from beginners to tournament competitors. The library provides chess sets and clocks, with experienced members often offering guidance to newcomers.
2. Fruita Chess Society
Location: Fruita Branch Library – 324 N Coulson St, Fruita, CO 81521
Description: About 25 minutes from Clifton, this growing chess community gathers biweekly. The library offers a quiet environment with quality chess equipment. The group maintains a friendly atmosphere while still providing competitive games.
3. Montrose Chess Club
Location: Montrose Regional Library – 320 S 2nd St, Montrose, CO 81401
Description: Located 60 minutes southeast of Clifton, this established group meets weekly. The club offers both casual play and competitive games, with occasional simultaneous exhibitions by strong players.
4. Palisade Chess Meetup
Location: Palisade Branch Library – 119 W 3rd St, Palisade, CO 81526
Description: Approximately 30 minutes from Clifton, this casual chess gathering meets monthly. Players enjoy games in the library’s comfortable seating areas. The group particularly encourages family participation.
5. Colorado Mesa University Chess Group
Location: CMU University Center – 1100 N Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501
Description: Just 15 minutes from Clifton, this student-run chess group meets weekly during academic semesters. The club welcomes both university students and community members for casual and competitive play.
Starting a Clifton Chess Club
Potential locations for local chess activities include:
Clifton Community Center – 3274 F Rd
Local libraries and coffee shops
Clifton Public Schools
Interested players could contact Mesa County Libraries about organizing chess programs.
Tournament Opportunities
Regional chess competitions include:
Grand Junction Chess Club’s seasonal tournaments
Western Slope Open (annual)
Colorado State Scholastic Chess Championships
Final Thoughts
While Clifton currently lacks its own dedicated chess club, nearby Grand Junction offers excellent playing opportunities just minutes away. The Fruita and Palisade clubs provide additional options within a reasonable driving distance.
For those interested in establishing a chess presence in Clifton, the area’s community facilities and growing population provide strong potential. Current information about regional chess can be obtained through Mesa County Libraries or the Colorado State Chess Association.
With chess experiencing growing popularity in Colorado, now is an excellent time to develop chess programming in Clifton. A local club could potentially draw players from throughout the Grand Valley and help build a stronger chess culture on the Western Slope.
