Centered around the fertile valley of the Colorado River, the Fruit and Wine Byway offers a scenic tour through Mesa County roads south of Palisade, Colorado. As the name suggests, the Fruit and Wine Byway is a great opportunity to explore the area’s vineyards, orchards, and farms.
While the Palisade Chamber of Commerce has officially designated the route as the “Fruit and Wine Byway,” locals and visitors also refer to the byway as the “Fruit Loop.” Accessible both by vehicle or bicycle, rentals and guided tours of the area available from local vendors.
Choose Your Loop
While visitors are free to choose their own adventure, the Fruit and Wine Byway is divided into three distinct loops.
East Orchard Mesa Loop: The East Orchard Mesa Loop encompasses 25 miles of hilly roads and beautiful vistas. As the longest route, there are plenty of options for stops at local vineyards, orchards, and wineries.
East Cruiser Loop: From downtown Palisade, the East Cruiser Loop follows 5 miles of scenic roads along the banks of the Colorado River with stops, stands, and stores for local goodies.
West Cruiser Loop: On the other side of town, the 7 mile West Cruiser Loop explores the central and western Palisade. The West Loop is great for accessing Riverbend Park, which has a disc golf course and boat launch, plus features the highest density of wineries on the byway.
Activities
Aside from enjoying the local flavors of freshly farmed ingredients, there are many activities surrounding the Fruit and Wine Byway that can be easily added to an itinerary. If you are planning to stay overnight, there are many lodging options in and around the town of Palisade.
Although the fresh fruit is intoxicating in its own way, travelers along the Fruit and Wine Byway who are enjoying adult beverages should drink responsibly and arrange for transportation when it is necessary.
Camping: Along the East Cruiser Loop, visitors will find the Palisade Basecamp Campground and RV Resort. Although the business primarily caters to RV campers, riverside tent camping and cabin rentals may also be available.
Across the highway, tent and RV campsites are also available at the James M. Robb Colorado River State Park – Island Acres Campground. Park fees and overnight fees apply, and some campsites may be available for advanced bookings.
Hiking and Mountain Biking: If you’d like to step off the blacktop, there are a few great trails located near the Fruit and Wine Byway. Experienced hikers will enjoy the challenge and seclusion of the Mt. Garfield Trail, while mountain bikers can check out the Horse Mountain MTB trail for 10 miles of beginner terrain.
For riders, hikers, and runners of all skill levels, the Palisade Rim Trail is the most popular route for enjoying the area. The Palisade Rim Trail features multiple loops, petroglyphs, seasonal wildflowers, some shade, and scenic views of the Colorado River and surrounding geological features.
Fishing and Hunting: Just after the first Fruit and Wine Byway mile marker, visitors can stop off at the Tilman Bishop State Wildlife Area for seasonal fishing and hunting with a valid state license. Reservations may be required, and public access is restricted annually from March 15 to June 14 for nesting and migration.
Full hunting and fishing policies can be found through Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Details
Address: 305 S Main Street, Palisade, CO 81526
Season: Year-round
Length: 5, 7, and 25 miles loops
Roads: Paved route suitable for vehicles and bicycles
Website: visitpalisade.com…
