Palisade Rim Trail

Parking is available at the Colorado River boat launch. It's important to avoid parking on the shoulder of the busy highway for safety and to ensure clear access.

The Palisade Rim Trail is located within the Palisade Rim Special Recreation Management Area. Currently, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the trail itself.

The trail offers great views year-round, but spring and fall are generally the best seasons to avoid extreme heat. If hiking in warmer months, start early in the morning to beat the heat and avoid weekend crowds. Winter conditions can vary, so check local forecasts.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Palisade Rim Trail. However, due to the challenging terrain, significant cliff exposure, and potential for shared use with mountain bikers and horseback riders, it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are capable of handling the strenuous conditions.

The terrain is diverse and challenging, featuring rocky shale, packed dirt, and slickrock. You'll encounter an initial steep climb with numerous switchbacks and technical rock features. The upper loop, in particular, has rocks, dirt, shale, berms, twists, short climbs, and significant cliff exposure, often described as having 'no-fall zones'.

The full route, including both the lower and upper loops with a connector, is approximately 9.5 miles long. Our komoot tour for the full loop suggests a duration of around 6 hours and 17 minutes, but this can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

You'll be treated to phenomenal views of Colorado's Wine Country, canyons, Mount Garfield, and the Colorado River. Keep an eye out for ancient Ute petroglyphs carved into the sandstone cliffs, especially near the junction of the lower and upper loops. Don't miss the Palisade Rim upper Loop Trail - Epic Viewpoint for expansive vistas.

Yes, the route is part of a larger trail system. While primarily following the Palisade Rim Trail, it also intersects with sections of the Palisade Rim Upper Loop Trail, Palisade Rim Lower Loop Trail, and the Palisade Rim Connector. You might also briefly encounter parts of the Palisade Plunge and the Fruit and Wine Byway.

The full Palisade Rim Trail is rated as difficult due to its significant elevation gain, challenging terrain, and cliff exposure, especially on the upper loop. While the lower loop is less strenuous, the overall trail is generally not recommended for beginners or young children. Hikers should have experience with challenging trails and be prepared for strenuous conditions.

Given the trail's difficulty and exposure, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer seasons, as there is no water available on the trail. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential for the rocky and slickrock sections. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and snacks are also highly recommended.

Yes, the trail system includes a lower loop and an upper loop, connected by a segment. You can choose to hike just the lower loop, which is about 3.5 to 4 miles, or combine both for the full, more challenging experience. The Palisades Rim Lower Loop offers scenic views of orchards and vineyards.