FRUITA AND PALISADE set the bar high for a weekend getaway
By Lexi Marshall
WHEN THE FRONT RANGE heat starts to simmer, savvy Denverites know it’s time to head west. About four hours along I-70, the Western Slope towns of Fruita and Palisade offer the kind of summer escape that blends red rock adventure with sun-warmed fruit, excellent wine and a slower pace of life.
Whether you’re a mountain biker, wine enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic escape, these towns promise a refreshing getaway.
FRUITA: RIDE, REFUEL, REPEAT
Perched near the edge of the Colorado National Monument, Fruita is a magnet for mountain bikers, hikers and road trippers who prefer dusty trails and small-town charm over crowds. Often referred to as Moab’s laid-back sister, the town’s casual vibe is matched only by its obsession with good food, great coffee and bikes—everywhere, always bikes.
Begin the day with a honey lavender iced latte from Bestslope Coffee Company, a stylish café that punches well above its weight in caffeine and community. For a hearty breakfast, Camilla’s Kaffe, now under new ownership, serves all the morning classics—think green chile burritos, omelets and French toast on a laid-back patio.
Once you’re fueled up, it’s time to hit the trails. Colorado National Monument offers hikes for every energy level and ability, many of them just minutes from Fruita’s downtown core. Devil’s Canyon Loop is a favorite among locals for its well-maintained path, scenic overlooks and approachable terrain. For an easy introduction to the monument’s stunning rock formations, Otto’s Trail is a mellow one-mile out-and-back that rewards with views of Sentinel Spire, Pipe Organ and Praying Hands.
Devil’s Kitchen Trail, a moderate hike that ends at a cluster of massive boulders, is a hit with families and kids eager to explore. If you’re craving something longer and more immersive, Monument Canyon Trail is an 11-mile trek with up-close views of the canyon’s rugged walls and a final payoff at the base of Independence Monument—the tallest free-standing formation in the monument.
Later on, hit up Base Camp Provisions, a walk-up kitchen slinging nourishing grain bowls, house-smoked meats and creative tacos. Or cool down with a colorful açai bowl from the bright Mountain Berry Bowls Fruita food truck, always a hit post-trail.
No trip to Fruita is complete without a slice from Hot Tomato Pizza, the town’s beloved bike-and-pie institution. Founded by two former pro cyclists, the place is as much a local hangout as it is a pizzeria—try The Bob Steve or Peach Pie if it’s in season. Grab a beer and settle on the patio, where there’s always a good conversation brewing. Don’t leave town without stopping at Skip’s Farm To Market, a small but mighty shop packed with local produce, snacks and provisions that make any hike or bike infinitely better.
PALISADE: PEACH COUNTRY MEETS WINE COUNTRY
A 25-minute drive from Fruita, Palisade is Colorado’s Napa Valley. Nestled along the Colorado River and surrounded by vineyards and orchards, the town is known for its juicy peaches, laid-back energy and surprisingly sophisticated wine scene.
Rent a cruiser or e-bike and spend a day pedal- ing the Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway, a scenic loop that winds past lavender farms, fruit stands and more than two dozen wineries. It’s an easy, mostly flat ride that’s best taken at a leisurely pace with frequent stops for tastings.
Pop some Colorado bubbles at Sauvage Spectrum, known for its experimental sparkling wines and sleek, modern tasting room. Carboy Winery, a Front Range favorite, brings its signature style to the Western Slope with estate-grown wines and a shaded patio perfect for lingering. Colterris Winery pours bold reds and bright rosés on one of the state’s most scenic patios, with sweeping views of the Colorado River. Plus, the tasting menu service is top-notch.
Just a few blocks off the byway in nearby Clifton, TWP Winery focuses on creativity and sustainability with small-batch wines that showcase the Grand Valley’s terroir. The winery also offers farmhouse lodging, providing a luxurious stay while exploring Colorado’s wine country.
Come harvest season, Palisade’s famous fruit stands overflow with peaches, cherries and plums. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Sunday, hit the Palisade Farmers Market, which runs June through October and features live music, local crafts, baked goods and— naturally—plenty of peaches. Even outside of market days, roadside stands dot the town, often operating on an honor system.
Each September, Palisade hosts the Colorado Mountain Winefest at Riverbend Park. Since 1992, this acclaimed event has drawn visitors from around the world to celebrate Colorado’s vibrant wine culture, featuring tastings from local wineries, live music and food vendors—all while supporting the state’s grape growers and winemakers through the Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology. Mark your calendar for this year’s celebration on September 20, 2025.
When it comes to restaurants, Fidel’s Cocina & Bar in downtown Palisade brings a vibrant, modern twist to traditional Mexican cuisine, with flavor-packed dishes like Oaxacan tacos, chile relleno and mezcal-forward cocktails that hit the spot after a day of wine tasting. Housed in a cozy brick building with a sidewalk-adjacent patio, Fidel’s offers an inviting atmosphere perfect any time of day.
Just down the street, Pêche. offers one of the most refined dining experiences on the Western Slope. Helmed by chef Matthew Chasseur, whose diverse culinary background instilled a deep respect for local, seasonal ingredients, this elegant spot highlights the best of the region’s produce through thoughtfully crafted dishes that change with the seasons. The intimate setting and attentive service make it a go-to for a romantic evening or special occasion.
Pêche
Whether you’re chasing singletrack, sipping sauvignon blanc or just savoring a slower pace, Fruita and Palisade offer a slice of Colorado that’s often overlooked but never underdelivered. Bring sunscreen, an appetite and an empty cooler—you’ll want to bring a little bit of this high desert heaven back home.
