Phase one of Palisade Plunge trail opens to the public
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GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – The first phase of the Palisade Plunge, a 32-mile mountain bike trail from the top of the Grand Mesa to the Town of Palisade, is open for public access on Saturday, May 29. Phase two is expected to be complete at the end of July.
The Palisade Plunge trail is the result of a partnership between the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, Mesa County, Town of Palisade, City of Grand Junction, Grand Junction Economic Partnership, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and the Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association.
“The Palisade Plunge exemplifies how a community can come together and create something special for the community and visitors,” stated BLM Grand Junction Field Manager Greg Wolfgang. “This project will have positive impacts to the Grand Valley for generations.”
The phase one section begins on Lands End Road, approximately three miles below the Lands End Observatory and traverses over 17 miles from the forested slopes of the Mesa to a classic desert canyon at Hwy. 6 and the Palisade Rim Trailhead. This section of the Palisade Plunge navigates remote, backcountry terrain with some sections of extreme exposure recommended only for experienced riders.
Trail users should use the U.S. Forest Service’s Wild Rose recreation site for parking. The Wild Rose site can only be accessed from the bottom of Lands End Road at US Hwy 50. The gate past Wild Rose will remain locked until snow melt and road conditions on top of the Mesa allow the road to reopen. Please do not block the road. Commercial permits for shuttle service will begin operations on May 29 and use of shuttle services is encouraged to reduce parking congestion.
Trail enthusiasts are encouraged to consider their experience, skills, and preparedness before taking “The Plunge.” Bring plenty of food and water, appropriate clothing, and bike repair supplies.
For up-to-date information on the Palisade Plunge, visit: https://www.blm.gov/office/grand-junction-field-office
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.