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, has opened.

Completion of the second phase is scheduled for the end of July.

“The Palisade Plunge exemplifies how a community can come together and create something special for the community and visitors,” said Greg Wolfgang, U.S. Bureau of Land Management Grand Junction field manager. “This project will have positive impacts to the Grand Valley for generations.”

The Palisade Plunge trail is the result of a collaboration between the  BLM and U.S. Forest Service as well as the City of Grand Junction, Grand Junction Economic Partnership, Town of Palisade, Mesa County,  Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association.

Phase one of the trail begins on Lands End Road about 3 miles below the Lands End Observatory and traverses over 17 miles from the forested slopes of the Mesa to a classic desert canyon at Highway 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 Wild Rose recreation site for parking. The Wild Rose site can only be accessed from the bottom of Lands End Road off U.S. Highway 50 south of Grand Junction. Commercial shuttle service also is available.

 Trail enthusiasts are encouraged to consider their experience, skills and preparedness before taking the Plunge. They should bring plenty of food and water, appropriate clothing and bike repair supplies. 

For additional information on the Palisade Plunge and a list of shuttle service providers, log on to the website located at  www.Palisadeplunge.com.