Round Trip Distance: 1.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
MTB Skill level:
Elevation: 4748 - 5055 feet
Cellphone: 3-5 bars
Time: 30 mins.
Trailhead: Tabeguache/Lunch Loop
Fee: none
Attractions: Scenic trail
Pet-e-Kes is located in the Lunch Loop Trails System in Grand Junction, Colorado. The lower end of the trail begins off of the Eagle's Tail trail not too far from its junction with the Tabeguache trail. From there it makes a steady climb gaining 461 feet of elevation along a 9% grade until it comes to an end at the High Noon trail. Pet-e-Kes is one of the most popular trails in the Lunch Loop area.
The lower end of Pet-e-Kes begins within the first quarter mile of the Eagle's Tail trail at the point which it begins off of the Tabeguache trail.
The trail starts out climbing along a smooth path of colorful pink and white adobe.
For the most part the lower part of the trail is completely cleared of rocks.
The Pet-e-Kes trail has a total elevation gain of 461 feet with an average grade of 9%. The profile of the trail shows the subtle and not so subtle transitions as the trail climbs toward High Noon.
Those that enjoy the natural beauty of a badlands type of landscape should have no trouble appreciating it here.
As the trail progresses up the drainage it crosses a dry wash and becomes a little steeper.
After a moderate climb the trail ends up crossing another wash in the next drainage over.
At this point the trail becomes more technically challenging for mountain bikers as it transitions from a moderate to advanced level.
Near the half mile point a short spur comes up that leads over to the Tabeguache trail.
From there parts of the trail level off a little with a few rocky spots some of which are rougher than others.
There are also a few places where the climbing picks back up again.
Near the top of the trail there is a marker that is dedicated to Pete Larson.
The Pet-e-Kes trail comes to an end at the High Noon trail. Going to the right at this point leads over to Eagle's Wing. Following High Noon to the left leads to the Tabeguache trail and then on over to Moto and Raven Ridge. Another option is to turn around and go back down Pet-e-Kes. It is a lot of fun in the downhill direction also. If you would like to see it for yourself then all you have to do is grab your bike or 'Take a hike'.
