The 34-mile Palisade Plunge is a brutal ride that routinely leaves riders out of water and fearing for their lives, which is why one of the largest shuttle companies and local bike shops wants you to listen to their warnings.
The complete Palisade Plunge is built! Is it your time to ride 32 miles of amazing and challenging singletrack? An epic point-to-point backcountry trail challenge, from the alpine aspen groves of the Grand Mesa to the desert shore of the Colorado River, the Palisade Plunge is truly a venture through unique scenery and an unbelievable experience. This is not a beginner ride, and even intermediate-advanced riders will likely find it difficult. All who choose to drop in will be rewarded with a unique purpose-built singletrack through varied terrain with amazing views of the San Juans, Uncompahgre Plateau, Colorado National Monument, and the Book Cliffs mountain range. Come experience the backcountry epic ride that is the Palisade Plunge with over 6000′ of descending and 1700′ of climbing in the full 32 miles of the trail.
Shorter portions of the ride are available and recommended to get acquainted with the terrain and ride experience and accessibility before taking on the entire Plunge experience. Riding the initial segment atop the Mesa and connecting to intersecting routes, or beginning a ride at Shirttail Point Trailhead (~mile 12 start) are great ways to experience portions of the route with their differing characteristics, lengths, and terrain types. Consult a map as well as an experienced commercial shuttle service provider for route planning.
There are a few companies with permits to provide commercial shuttle services for the Palisade Plunge: Palisade Cycle & Shuttle Pali-Tours Powderhorn Pacific Hermosa Tours
For more info see: Palisade Plunge — COPMOBA & Plunge To Palisade
Singletracks Mountain Bike News
Route type: XC Trail