Photo: @erberrie
If your idea of a good time involves ripping downhill through alpine forests, then the Palisade Plunge is for you! The Plunge, is one of the longest downhill-only trails in the country. This brand-new trail will run from the top of the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain, for 32 miles with a 6,000-foot descent arriving at the Colorado River on the valley floor. Mix it up by jumping on the Powderhorn Connector to ride into Powderhorn Mountain (ski) Resort and shred the downhill trails, while taking advantage of easy lift access to keep the good times rolling.
Rooted in History
Photo: @sparkymoir
The route connects a variety of trails on top of the Grand Mesa, which are steeped in history. John Otto explored on the Grand Mesa and forged new paths more than a century ago. Otto is most known as the local explorer who was Colorado National Monument's first custodian and was the main advocate for getting the Monument recognized as part of the National Park System.
Scenery
The single-track trail winds through alpine forests and high desert, some of which has long been unused for hundreds of years, except by 4th generation ranchers and their cattle. This is considered an advanced expert ride. The last four miles is extremely narrow single-track, so there is no room to walk alongside your bike. In addition, numerous areas of the trail, including these last four miles, have extreme cliff drop-offs and little shade. Click here to view a full map of the trail.
Parking
Photo: @holdenashley
Park at the U.S. Forest Service Wild Rose recreation site, which can be accessed from the bottom of Lands End Road at U.S. Hwy 50. There is a two-mile uphill ride, with a 700-foot elevation, on Lands End Road to the Plunge Trail. Due to limited parking, you may want your group to consider a shuttle service with Grand Junction Adventures or Palisade Cycle & Shuttle.
Be Prepared
Plan ahead and bring extra water (2.5 gallons per rider is recommended) and plenty of food, appropriate clothing and bike repair supplies are recommended. No water is available at the trailhead or on the trail. You will experience a variety of weather, from cool temperatures towards the top to desert-like heat at the bottom. Once you begin, there are not any good “bail out” trails, you’ll have to continue down the trail so know your abilities.
Basecamp
Photo: @colorado_meanderings
Grand Junction is your perfect basecamp for your outdoor adventures. With 38 affordable hotels (average rate is under $125, even during events and holidays), RV & camping parks, and over 200 restaurants – you have plenty of options. You can get here via plane, train, or automobile as well! Flights from the Grand Junction Regional Airport are convenient and affordable.
Check out everything Grand Junction has to offer in the “no ads” Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide or we can mail one to you as well.