In Palisade, vineyards and orchards lie between the Colorado River and Grand Mesa. Three themes shape the experience of the area: the Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway, trails and activities along the river, and local history. This gives you a way to weigh up scenery, outdoor activities, regional experiences and culture when planning your stay.
Vineyards, orchards and three routes
The Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway is divided into three routes and is suitable for both drivers and cyclists. Along the Byway are orchards, lavender gardens and vineyards, as well as wineries and farm stands selling fresh fruit. Along the Byway are orchards, lavender gardens and vineyards, as well as wineries and farm stands selling fresh fruit.
Palisade’s vineyards and orchards thrive in a high-desert climate with warm days and cool nights. This landscape helps put the growing region’s distinctive setting into perspective. Many wineries have tasting rooms where you can sample wine or enjoy a glass. Opening hours vary by winery, so plan your visit around the hours at the winery you choose.
U-pick experiences are also part of a visit to Palisade’s orchards and farms. Some may require reservations, and availability is seasonal. At Sage Creations Organic Farm, visitors can pick lavender themselves. This offering is also seasonal.
Exploring the Colorado River
The Colorado Riverfront Trail begins in Palisade. The Palisade section starts at Riverbend Park at the southern end of Brentwood Drive, crosses the Grand Valley Irrigation Canal, and runs for 0.75 miles along the north bank of the Colorado River. The trail is used for easy walks, birdwatching and cycling. At Riverbend Park, a paved path runs along the river for walking and cycling.
The options along the river vary by activity: the trail links a short stretch along the north bank with walking, birdwatching and cycling; the Colorado River also offers opportunities for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Water conditions and equipment availability vary. If you’re planning an outing on the water, check conditions and equipment availability in advance.
Palisade also has other routes for mountain biking and gravel biking, including the Palisade Plunge, a descent for experienced riders. Check trail conditions and access before riding.
Historic sites and walking tours
The Historic Crissey House is stop 10 on the Palisade Historic Walking Tour. Built in 1907, the Herbert and Edith Crissey House is associated with Palisade’s first decade. As a stop on the walking tour, the house offers a specific point of reference for the area’s history.
The Palisade Historical Society offers guided tours on request and for special groups. The tours visit Colonel Bower, the town center and historic sites around downtown. If you’re considering a guided tour, check how to make a request and which arrangements are suitable before your visit. The Palisade Historic Walking Tour brochure is also available as an e-book. Printed copies can be found in the holder under the Historic Downtown Palisade Sign on 3rd Street between Main Street and Kluge Avenue, as well as at the Palisade Chamber of Commerce and the Palisade Branch Library.
The Palisade History Museum began with the renovation of a log cabin built before 1939. George Bunte Jr. had the building constructed for his freight company, Grand Junction Palisade Freight. The museum is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; admission is free. Check the opening hours before you arrive to make sure your visit falls within the right time period.
An August event
The Palisade Peach Festival takes place every year on the third Friday and Saturday in August at Riverbend Park. Its set dates and venue make the festival a specific seasonal reference point for trip planning. If you’d like to visit Palisade for the event, check the event dates before you arrive.
Discover more destinations: Redlands, Fruita, De Beque, Grand Junction.
Return to the main travel overview: Mesa.
