Whether you are looking for a leisurely family ride, fitness ride, or an easy trail with plenty of opportunities to stop and take pictures, the Colorado Riverfront Trail offers something for all ability levels. The trail extends from Palisade, through Grand Junction, past Fruita, and ends at the Kokopelli parking lot in Loma. An avid cyclist looking for a longer ride can bike end to end and log 40 miles in one direction. When traveling from Palisade to Fruita, it is important for riders to know that there are a few sections that require travel on the road; between Palisade and the Clifton Nature Park there are 4 miles of road and then between 29 Road and the Las Colonias section there is another 1.5 mile stretch of asphalt along C ½ road. While the route extends 40 miles, the trail is broken up into sections, each with parking available so trail users can park and ride shorter segments of the Riverfront trail. Each section is ADA accessible and can easily be enjoyed by walkers and joggers. The trail provides habitat for many bird species, so it is common to see birders walking along with their binoculars. Fishing is also available at each of the James M. Robb State Park Sections. If you enjoy viewing wildlife, the best times to see a variety of critters is in the morning around sunrise or in the evening as the sun sets. Over the years, I have seen several deer, bald eagles, osprey, red tailed hawks, many blue heron, fresh water pelicans, fox, otter, beaver, and owls. Once on a run, I even spotted a small turtle trying to make his way across the path.
The Riverfront trail has been built, maintained, and expanded over the years through a partnership with Colorado State Parks, Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade, Mesa County, several non-profit organizations, and local businesses. For maps and info on the trail sections visit One Riverfront.
As the trail passes through Palisade, Grand Junction, and Fruita, riders can easily divert off the trail and head into the downtown areas to refuel with local fare or possibly catch some live music at one of the eateries. Mountain bikers can park in Fruita and take the Western Monument section out to the Kokopelli Trail. Riding from Fruita to Kokopelli is 4.5 miles one way on paved trail, then do a single-track loop, and head back into town for a delicious slice of hot pie at The Hot Tomato, one of the most famous local establishments in the Grand Valley. In Grand Junction along the Las Colonias section Edgewater Brewery sits right next to the Riverfront Trail. Edgewater is a local brewery and it is a great pit stop to grab a bite, sample local brews, or play some lawn games.
With the Riverfront Trail only a few hundred yard from my front door, I make use of the trail every day whether it is by foot or bike. My favorite spring ride heads east on the trail past Corn Lake State Park about a half mile then take a pedestrian bridge south over the river and climb up to East Orchard Mesa, part of the Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway. Orchard Mesa is a road ride, weaving past many orchards and vineyards; distance varies depending on the route one takes. During the month of April, each hill is speckled in pink from the peach and cherry blossoms. Each time you take a corner and head eastward you will receive an unobstructed view of the Grand Mesa, turn again headed north and the view changes to rows of fruit trees towered by the magnificent Mount Garfield and the Bookcliffs. During the summer months, cyclists can ride through the orchards and make stops at fruit stands for a variety of fresh local produce or taste locally made wine at one of the many wineries along the Fruit & Wine Byway. If you are craving a sweet treat, make a stop at Palisade Pies for a slice of homemade fruit pie and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. No matter the route you take, just get out at Ride!
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