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Palisades, CO wine trail

We are celebrating our 30th anniversary and considering coming to the Palidades area. Our dates are Oct 23-27. Is this too late to visit this area? We do love scenic hikes, wine tours and live music. Our daughter is getting married the week before, so we're OK with a quieter trip. Debating between Colorado and Sedona's Verde Valley. We visited Temecula last year and loved this.

Visiting Palisade, Colorado in late October can be a fantastic experience, especially if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed trip after your daughter’s wedding. While it’s past peak harvest season, the area still has plenty to offer for wine lovers, hikers, and those who enjoy scenic drives.

Here are some things to consider for your visit:

  • Wine tasting: Many wineries in the Palisade area remain open in late October, though hours may be slightly reduced compared to summer and early fall. You can enjoy tours, tastings, and in some cases, special events celebrating the harvest season. Some notable wineries include Grande River Vineyards, Colterris, and Carlson Vineyards.
  • Scenic hikes: Fall colors in Palisade can still be beautiful late October, with cottonwoods and vineyards adding vibrant yellows and golds to the landscape. Popular easy-to-moderate hikes include:
    • James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park trails for riverside walks.
    • Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area for more dramatic canyon hikes.
    • Wine Country Trails – some vineyards have short trails with panoramic views of the orchards and surrounding mountains.
  • Live music and events: While it’s quieter after the busy harvest season, some wineries and local venues still offer weekend live music. Check winery websites for updated schedules; some may have special anniversary or seasonal events.

Other tips for your trip:

  • Weather: Late October can be cool, especially in the evenings, so pack layers and be prepared for occasional rain or chilly mornings.
  • Scenic drives: The West Elberta Loop and Palisade Plateau Road offer beautiful vineyard and mountain views, perfect for a relaxed drive and photography.
  • Dining: Palisade has some excellent farm-to-table options and casual dining spots that pair wonderfully with local wines. Consider booking reservations if you want to enjoy a nicer dinner, as some places may have reduced hours.

Overall, Palisade is ideal for a quieter, romantic anniversary getaway with scenic hikes, wine tasting, and relaxed exploration. Compared to Sedona, the atmosphere will be less crowded, and the landscape is uniquely Colorado with vineyard vistas, orchards, and the backdrop of the Grand Mesa and Book Cliffs. If you enjoyed Temecula, you’ll likely find the Palisade experience equally rewarding, just with a different kind of natural beauty and a more laid-back vibe in late October.

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