Move to Palisade, Colorado: A Haven of Tranquility in the Heart of Wine Country

As you drive west on I-70 from Denver, over the mountains and follow the river along the vast Glenwood canyon, the scenery opens as you enter the Grand Valley. Move to Palisade, Colorado, its the first town you see in the valley. It’s a picturesque town celebrated for its vineyards, orchards, and serene way of life. If you’re considering a move to Palisade, Colorado, expect a smaller community with unique charm.

The population is around 2,600 and it’s considered part of the metropolitan area of Grand Junction. Elevation is officially 4,718′.

Here are ten reasons why a move to Palisade might be the perfect place for you, plus a bonus tip at the end!

Vineyards and Wineries

Discover a wine lover’s paradise in Palisade. With its renowned vineyards and wineries, the town offers the perfect setting for wine enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the world of wine through tastings, tours, and year-round events.

There are wineries, tasting rooms and distilleries in downtown Palisade or you can follow the Palisade Fruit and Wine Byway through East Orchard Mesa by car or bike.

Scan the QR code on our map image at the end of this post to get the map yourself or pick one up at any of the locations featured on the map.

Peach Capital

Palisade proudly bears the title of the “Peach Capital of Colorado” and there are many farm stands and markets in Palisade and the Grand Valley to buy these juicy peaches. Indulge in the sweetness of locally grown peaches and join in the festivities at the annual Palisade Peach Festival, a celebration of the town’s agricultural bounty held each August. Palisade events.

Ask me about a spot along the Fruit and Wine Byway to get your fresh peach pie or peach cobbler with peach ice cream on top and peach iced tea! See photo in the slideshow! Now that’s living! We eat peaches every week while they are in season. Mostly purchased at the Palisade Farmers Market.

Outdoor Recreation

Embrace the great outdoors with a myriad of recreational activities. From hiking and mountain biking to fishing and water sports, Palisade provides an abundance of opportunities for adventure. The majestic Colorado River and nearby mountains await exploration.

If you’re the adventurous thrill seeker type, you may want to try the Palisade Plunge! Enjoy 32 miles of amazing and challenging single track that starts on the Grand Mesa and plunges down into Palisade. There’s over 6000′ of descending and 1700′ of climbing in the full 32 miles of the trail.

Or enjoy the scenic views of orchards and vineyards from 1,000 ft above the valley floor when you hike the Palisade Rim Trail, one of the most popular trails in Palisade. There are rental shops in town for bikes or a float down the river.

Mild Climate

Enjoy a comfortable and temperate climate in Palisade. With four distinct seasons, including mild winters and warm, dry summers, the weather is ideal for year-round outdoor pursuits. It’s even said that Palisade has its own distinct ecosystem which differs from Grand Junction even though they are a few short miles apart.

The location at the entrance of the valley and just a bit higher elevation creates the perfect environment to grow some of the most amazing produce you’ve ever eaten. Hot days and cool nights produce the juiciest peaches you’ll ever taste. And it’s good for the grapes and other stone fruits too!

Read my post about the weather that includes average highs and lows by month.

Scenic Beauty

Surrounded by red rock formations, lush orchards, vineyards, and the meandering Colorado River, Palisade captivates with its natural beauty. Every corner of the town offers breathtaking landscapes perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Be sure to check out scenic Riverbend Park on the Colorado River.

Downtown Palisade Shops and Dining
View from Palisade Rim Trail
Almost 30 wineries in town!
Distilleries and Breweries too!
Palisade Sunday Farmers Market

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Small-Town Charm with high speed Internet

Palisade boasts a close-knit and welcoming community. Experience the warmth of small-town living, where neighbors become friends, and a relaxed atmosphere permeates daily life. They have a Community Center, swimming pool, and several parks. Cute hardly describes downtown Palisade. A better description would be pure West Slope magic! And a bonus, they have fiber optic high speed Internet Service for residents in Palisade!

Agriculture

The town’s economy is rooted in agriculture, creating a serene and rustic ambiance. Fruit orchards, vineyards, and farms contribute to the town’s character, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. See the map at the bottom of this post.

Festivals and Events

Beyond the Peach Festival, Palisade hosts a variety of events and festivals. Immerse yourself in the local arts, music, and culture, adding vibrant hues to the community’s tapestry throughout the year.

The Palisade Farmers Market on Sunday mornings (June-Oct) is one of the best I’ve ever been to and includes live music, food trucks, coffee, pastries, flowers, lavender products from local producers, jewelry, and handmade creations as well as delicious peaches, pears, plums and a wealth of local produce. You can sometimes get free samples from the Palisade Distillery. Watch out for the bourbon.

Education

For families considering a move to Palisade, you can be confident that it also provides access to excellent schools within the Mesa County Valley School District. Invest in your children’s future with quality education in a nurturing environment. Palisade schools are part of School District 51. They have one elementary, one middle, and one high school serving the community.

Proximity to Grand Junction

While Palisade revels in its tranquility, the amenities of a larger city are just a short drive away. Grand Junction offers shopping, dining, and additional recreational opportunities, providing the best of both worlds. Check out our post about retiring to Grand Junction or reasons to check out Fruita!

The journey to Palisade promises not just a change of scenery but a transformation into a welcoming community where the simple joys of life take center stage. Allow me to show you the magic and all that Palisade has to offer. There is much more to explore than what’s included here.

You can go to visitpalisade.com and sign up to receive their emails so you can find out what’s going on in Palisade, Colorado. They also have a list of “things to do” in Palisade, Colorado.

Palisade Bonus Tips

If you want the quintessential winery experience along the Colorado River, consider a stop at the Colterris Winery Tasting Room where you can relax in Adirondack chairs overlooking the courtyard and vineyard while you are up close to the Grand Mesa and the Book Cliff mountains. You can actually feel the breeze as wind blows through the De Beque canyon into Palisade. They also have “The Overlook” located on E ½ Road along the scenic byway.

And, if you are looking for a place to camp, you have to check out nearby Palisade Basecamp RV resort. It’s a premiere campground surrounded by mountains, vineyards, orchards and trails and it’s right on the Colorado River, just look at their photos online. Even if you don’t camp, just drive through this place!