Four of us left the new park between the Botanical Gardens and the brewpub about 9 o’clock this morning. A new member had joined us, so our group of retired people included a Grand Junction police officer, a Colorado State Patrolman, a parole officer and a judge. Thanks to the fact that I haven’t ridden in several years, and they had, they were faster than I was. That’s the spin. The fact is that they’re in better shape than me. But I’m working on it.
Here’s the route. For those of you who have ridden in the Tour of the Valley, it should be familiar.
We rode across a newer bike bridge which crosses the Colorado River and leads up a very steep hill to the Orchard Mesa area. The peach harvest is underway, and the trees are heavy with fruit. Along the way, we passed several old and new vineyards and roadside fruit stands. And tucked behind the trees is some truly remarkable sculpture, including one of a large fish made entirely out of license plates. And coming back along the river in a state park, we came across several native birds taking advantage of the abundant moisture and lakes, including a family of ospreys.
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The Palisade website might entice you to visit. Here’s their brief history of the area:
Palisade, Colorado is renowned for its ability to grow some of North America’s best fruit. Palisade has a rich history of raising all types of fruits and vegetables in a climate unique to this section of the Western Slope. As early as the 1890s, apple, cherry, peach, pear and plum trees were planted in the area. In 1909, the town celebrated the first Peach Day festival, with President Taft as the speaker. During harvest season, which runs from late June to early October, you’ll be able to find these great fruits and vegetables at stands and orchards throughout the town.
If you’re going to be here in September, you might enjoy the Palisade Winefest. And you can follow our route, with stops at the vineyards along the way (and a free shower afterwards) at the aptly named Tour de Vineyards.