The Palisade Plunge
32 miles of downhill, backcountry singletrack bliss
This trail is open to all recreational, non-motorized users, including hiking, biking, and trail running. Equestrian use is permitted from miles 1-18. Dogs are permitted on a leash.
Plunge from the top of the Grand Mesa National Forest 32 miles downhill through breathtaking back-country trails and challenging terrain. The Palisade Plunge trail connects the top of the Grand Mesa to the valley floor and the town of Palisade, Colorado. Descend 6000’ feet in elevation on the fast, fun, high-energy trail through untravelled public lands and unbelievable scenery. This trail is guaranteed to keep your endorphins pumping all the way into the Town of Palisade. The Palisade Plunge offers a net descent that is matched by only a couple of mountain biking trails in the country.
Mountain bikers descending on the Palisade Plunge Trail in Palisade, Colorado
All types of terrain in one singletrack adventure
From forest to meadows to streams and desert, this ride will keep bikers on the edge of their seats with new challenges at every turn. Conquer the mountain as you pass through historically unused land, exploring a variety of terrain from alpine to high desert environments.
Travel through rock spires, lava fields, aspen groves, and stunning landmarks encompassing the Grand Valley, the Bookcliff Range, the Colorado National Monument, and Unaweep Canyon.
Descend past Coal Creek, Shirttail Point, Lands End, Whitewater, and Watson Creek. Cross the Colorado River for the last mile of paved riding and finish in Downtown Palisade, Colorado, where you can relax and enjoy various farm-to-table food, craft brews, spirits, and award-winning Colorado wines!
How to Get to the Palisade Plunge Trailhead
The Palisade Plunge begins at the Mesa Top Trail Head. 10,719 ft in elevation, this high-altitude trail head starts with stunning views through dark forests and high meadows. Travel up the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway to begin your journey.
Transportation to the Palisade Plunge
Palisade Plunge Cycle and Shuttle
Don’t stress about your vehicle! Catch a ride to the trailhead from Palisade Plunge Cycle & Shuttle. Located in downtown Palisade, Palisade Cycle and Shuttle has everything you need to enjoy your day on the Plunge. Rent top-of-the-line mountain bikes and helmets, check out maps of Palisade, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
Call Rapid Creek Cycles for departure times and availability: 970-464-9266
Pali-Tours
Pali-Tours provides shuttle opportunities for the highly anticipated Palisade Plunge! Their local area knowledge will set you up for a successful experience. Pali-Tours offers multiple daily shuttles from your hotel, Airbnb, or campground in Palisade to the Grand Mesa and the starting line for your purely epic descent.
Call Pali-Tours for departure times and availability: 970-697-8134
Powderhorn Plunge Shuttle
The Powderhorn Plunge Shuttle Service provides easy and reliable bike transportation for the Palisade Plunge, Plunge to Powderhorn, and Powderhorn Bike Park. Daily pickups are available from the Town of Palisade and Powderhorn Mountain Resort. Powderhorn also offers the option to rent equipment for your ride with a fleet of Rocky Mountain demo bikes and all protective gear.
Book shuttle rides at powderhorn.com.
