I had mine for about 5 years until just a few weeks ago I traded for some other gear. I used it for many things, from cramming it full of gear for a weekend jeep adventure to week long backpacking in Western NC to an overpriced laundry bag (worked great)! I traded my pack because this thing is serious! This isn't a pack for weekend warriors, that is unless you want to take EVERYTHING you own! This is for major trips for multiple days! I wish I could use it for it's whole potential but really it was just a status symbol for me that I had a cool giant Gregory pack. (ugh immaturity) I never had a problem with it, the adjustments are great and the pack felt great with any load no matter how overstuffed it got. The palisade never let me down. Oh, I remember that I was hooked on the Shasta before I settled on the Palisade and the deciding factor for me was the front external pocket (that's really the only difference between the two). I like the ability to put small items that I needed to get to fast, and the front pocket is a little easier to dig through that the top pouch. But go with whatever you like. Some tips in general:
Make sure you get fitted at a shop before you buy online, DON'T GEUSS ON PACK SIZES! I'd recommend Gregory to anyone looking no matter what type of trip you'll be taking, they make a pack for every person & trip. Also borrow a friends pack before you jump in to buying gear, it will help you figure out what you like and dislike. I'd also recommend Ospery packs if your hunting, they have a different type of suspension and belt system which I think fits great!

I have used a Palisade for 4 years. It's a fantsitc backpack. It handles loads BEAUTIFULLY. It is comfortableon the back, tight fitting, and nimble. Although a little on the heavy side, the fit, comfort and quality make up for this in spades. It has what you need, and minimizes and silly extras. Short of it...Buy it. Unless you want an ultra light backpack, you are not going to do better than this. Note: Osprey also makes good packs as well.

Just got this (it's the 2008 version - new and improved) and used it on a 6 day in the Olympics (lots of serious ups and downs, rough terrain). I've had a Bora in the past and it and I never quite clicked. However, I almost immediately fell in love with this pack - the lumbar support that felt a bit odd at first quickly became the best part of it - forcing all the weight onto my hips. This was the first extended trip that I got back from without a wrecked back and damaged shoulders - and I was carrying probably 55 lbs (stupid bear canister). All the components are well thought out, the extra features are all actually features instead of added weight, and it feels very solid without being overkill (nb Bora). If you're looking for a serious pack that can haul lots of gear for an extended trip, definitely check this out - just make sure you like the lumbar pad.

It's a great all-around pack, sturdy, holds a ton, comfortable, I wish it had more pockets like the new one does, but all around I'm very happy with it!

Haven't taken this thing out for long trips but on my climbing adventures, in Korea, it has served me well. My last pack was the Shasta model and I never knew how much I was missing by not upgrading. Gregory's customer service is hard to beat as well. This is my third pack from them. Very happy with it.

Fantastic pack - if you're carrying 1000 pounds of gear. The thing weighs almost seven pounds! If what you need is convenience, extreme durability, space, and comfortable fit, go ahead, it will do the job. But people have base pack weights that are less than this thing alone. That's why I returned it. If you can go light, this will support whatever you have. I'll second getting fitted. I did at REI which was great - I could load up my gear and go on a day hike with the option of returning it.

Purchased this pack to replace a Macpac Torre (5 years old). The Gregory design and features on this pack are excellent. I have no complaints abouts it's ability to handle loads over 50 pounds. I just completed a Philmont trek with this pack - 65 miles and the only mark this pack shows is some pine sap. I love the pockets in the hip belt. Good place for your lip balm, headlamp and light-weight Swiss Card.

Buy this pack and don't look back!

I haven't used it for an extended period of time but I have loaded it to the hilt for a test run on a two day trip. The load's weight was evenly distributed and the pack had easy access points. Can't wait to actually use it for a week's long trek.