Colorado National Monument

Details: Colorado National Monument preserves one of the grand landscapes of the American West. But this treasure is much more than a monument. Towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. You can experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.

Spring: Daytime high temperatures 70-85 F (21-30 C), nighttime low temperature 30-50 F (-1 - +10 C). Summer: Daytime high temperatures can reach 100 F (38 C), afternoon thunderstorms common. Fall: Similar to spring temperatures, sudden changes in weather common. Snow can occur in October. Winter: Daytime highs vary from 10 - 45 F (-12 - +7 C). Snow common, patches of snow and ice stay around most of the winter.

Directions: Driving Westbound on Highway I-70 towards Grand Junction, Exit 31 (Horizon Drive). Follow signs through Grand Junction to the east entrance. The visitor center and campground are 19 miles from the east entrance. Eastbound on Highway I-70 take Exit 19 (Fruita). Turn south on Highway 340 to the west entrance, which is approximately three miles from Fruita. The visitor center and campground are four miles up from the west entrance.

Alcove Nature Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: Directly across Rim Rock Drive from the Saddlehorn Visitor Center.
• Mileage: 0.5 one way (0.8 km) one-way
• Difficulty Level: Easy (Mostly level)
• Elevation: 5,800 feet (1768 meters)
• Average time: 1/2 hour
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Level trail that travels to an alcove in a box canyon. Detailed trail guides are available at the trailhead and the visitor center. A good introduction to some of the plants, animals, and rocks of the monument. Great for families with small children.

Black Ridge Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: Three access points:
  • (1) across from the Saddlehorn Visitor Center in the north
  • (2) accessed by the CCC Trail 3.8 miles (6.1 km) east from the visitor center - trailhead on the right
  • (3) at 6.4 miles (10.3 km) east from the visitor center - trailhead on the left; you can also access Upper Liberty Cap Trail from this trailhead.
• Mileage: 5.5 one way (8.8 km)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Elevation: 5,790 to 6,730 feet (1765 to 2051 meters)
• Average time: 3 hours
• Usage: Hiking and horseback riding.
• Description: Highest trail in the park with far-reaching views west to Utah canyonlands, east to Grand Valley, and south to the San Juan Mountains. Follows up-and-down terrain of Black Ridge. Trail crosses into McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area (Bureau of Land Management lands).

Bookcliff View Shelter

The Bookcliff View Shelter is located on the Saddlehorn loop road and is perched on the canyon rim. The final design of the shelter is credited to NPS architect Phil Romigh, even though initially conceptualized by Cecil Doty.  Doty’s design was similar to today’s fan-shaped structure, but had a concrete roof supported by three stone pillars. The final results appeared to be a marriage between the designs of these two architects. It was initially put out for bid in 1964 along with the amphitheater, but then placed on hold because of the expense.  The final bid went out again in Jan 1965 and the shelter was completed between June and September of that year.

Its design is a curved modern structure with a roof cantilevered out in a fan shape that offers visitors unimpeded views of the surrounding canyon and valley.  The structure’s use of natural stone and wood also blends well with the surrounding landscape.  It’s one anchor of Canyon Rim Trail offering visitors a resting place to enjoy the view (the visitor center is the other anchor.)
 

CCC Era Campground C-Loop Restroom

The first improved camping facility at Colorado National Monument was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and is now called Loop C in the Saddlehorn Campground. It contained 27 camp spaces. According to park records, the CCC worked on the Campground Comfort Station from December 1936 to June 1937.  The building is a rectangular, one-story structure designed by the National Park Service and constructed of native red sandstone masonry by the CCC.  It resembles the other historic buildings in the Saddlehorn area and is an excellent example of NPS Rustic Architecture.  This structure was “built by detail,” just as the Caretaker’s Residence and Garage.  The comfort station consists of a women’s and men’s restroom with a janitorial closet between them.   

Canyon Rim Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: Starts behind the Saddlehorn Visitor Center and ends at Book Cliffs View. One may also start at Book Cliffs View and end at the Saddlehorn Visitor Center.
• Mileage: 0.5 one way (0.8 km)
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation: 5,626 feet (1715 meters)
• Average time: 1/2 hour
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Level trail following the cliff edge above colorful Wedding Canyon. The trail does have two pairs of switchbacks and railings when the trail is adjacent to the canyon edge. Parents should keep a close eye on children. Outstanding views make this a favorite for landscape and wildlife photographers. Download the Canyon Rim and Window Rock Trail brochure.
• History: This trail was built with the Visitor Center and Bookcliff Shelter between 1963 and 1965 to connect the the two places.Canyon Rim Trail is unchanged from its original design and provides an outdoor experience for visitors thus fulfilling one of the goals of the Mission 66 visitor center design.

Caretaker's House and Garage

At Colorado National Monument the Caretaker’s Residence (Stonehouse) and Garage are evidence of the Civilian Conservation Corps’ (CCC) work.  These structures are located 100 yards NE of the Visitor Center or at the intersection of Rim Rock Drive and Saddlehorn Campground Loop Road, approximately 4 miles from the west entrance of Colorado National Monument. This residence was completed about April 9,1935 and the garage was completed by April 1936. The CCC was said to have assisted with its construction while the Local Experienced Men (LEM) trained them.  Many of these LEMs were stone masons of Italian descent.

Both buildings are rectangular, one-story structures designed by the National Park Service and constructed of native red sandstone masonry. The style exemplifies NPS Rustic Architecture.  Both buildings were “built by detail,” not only were the wall's gross dimensions specified by the architect, but also each component block’s shape, size, and location. The stone blocks were quarried by the CCC men. There are various stone quarries located in the park.  Each building has cedar shingles. The exterior of the residence has not been modified, except for the installation of metal storm sash doors and windows in the 1970s, so retains a high degree of integrity from the historic period to this day.  

The garage for the caretaker's residence is located at the southwest corner of the property. This one-story nearly square structure was constructed in a similar manner as the residence. The foundation of the garage is concrete. The exterior walls are constructed of native sandstone blocks, which are set in a coursed ashlar pattern. The lower courses are stepped. Constructed from massive native red sandstone blocks on a concrete foundation, the opposing side walls of the structure are mirror images of one another, and the placement of blocks in the front and back walls are also symmetrical with reference to their respective centerlines.

Today the residence is office space for the park staff. It is not open to the public.
 

Coke Ovens Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From Saddlehorn Visitor Center, turn left onto Rim Rock Drive and proceed 3.8 miles (6.1 km) to the trailhead on the left. It is also the upper trailhead for Monument Canyon Trail.
• Mileage: 0.5 one way (0.8 km)
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation: 6,140 to 5,960 feet (1871 to 1817 meters)
• Average time: 1/2 hour
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Trail descends gradually and parallels the hillside to the overlook. Look upon the massive rounded Coke Ovens, an illustration of the effects of time and weather on the Wingate Sandstone.

Corkscrew Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From the east entrance, proceed north on Monument Road 0.6 miles (1.0 km); turn left on South Camp Road. Drive 2.6 miles ( 4.2 km) to its junction with South Broadway. Turn left and go 0.5 miles (0.8). Turn left onto Wildwood Drive and go 0.5 miles (0.8 km) and watch closely for a brown trailhead sign on the right at what appears to be driveway. Turn down this road to the trailhead. This trailhead is shared with Ute Canyon Trail and Liberty Cap Trail.
• Mileage: 3.3 one way (5.3 km)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous
• Elevation: 4,800 feet (1463 meters)
• Average time: 2 1/2 hours
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Originally built by John Otto in 1909. Follow Liberty Cap Trail to trail junction sign at 1.0 mile (1.6 km). Turn left and hike 0.2 miles (0.3 km) to Corkscrew Trail sign; descend steep "corkscrew" switchbacks. Follow Corkscrew Connector Trail signs back to the trailhead.

Devils Kitchen Picnic Area

There are several great locations to enjoy a picnic at Colorado National Monument. Devils Kitchen Picnic Area is the closest venue to the City of Grand Junction, located just inside the East Entrance. It has 15 picnic tables, a shade shelter, 6 charcoal-only grills, a drinking fountain, bathrooms open seasonally, and garbage/recycling.

Devils Ktichen Picnic Area can be reserved for special events, permits and fees apply. For event reservations, consider the following:

1. Maximum number of parking spaces that can be occupied is 10.
2. Overflow parking is available in the field near the east entrance station. The maximum number of parking spaces there is 50.
3. Event attendees may not walk the road to the Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. Events that use the additional parking area must provide a parking attendant and coordinate shuttling guests to the picnic area.

Devils Kitchen Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From the east entrance, travel 0.2 miles (0.3 km). Limited parking is on the left. For additional parking, turn right into the Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. The trailhead is shared with two other trails: No Thoroughfare Canyon Trail and Old Gordon Trail. Serpents Trail access is across the road.
• Mileage: 0.75 one way (1.2 km)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Elevation: 4,990 to 5,060 feet (1521 to 1542 meters)
• Average time: 1 hour
• Usage: Hiking and horseback riding.
• Description: Gradual ascent to a natural opening formed by a circle of huge upright boulders. At the first fork, go right. At the second fork, go left. Follow the trail across the wash. As you proceed up the canyon, you will see the large rock grotto that is Devils Kitchen. Keep on the established trail and follow the carved steps up the slickrock. As you approach the base of the rock formation, go left around it and hike into the rock opening.

ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Final Stop

Congratulations!

You have made it to the final stop along the ESCAPE experience at Colorado National Monument. You should be proud. You have learned to build your self-esteem and character. You have tested your mental agility and physical fitness. And most importantly, hopefully, you had fun while doing it. Below are the answers for the codes and directions for downloading your certificates. (Code-keeper, this is where you come in!) 

ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Codes 

The following are the codes for Stops 1 through 5. Check your answers.  

First Code: Breath 
Second Code: Trust 
Third Code: Positive 
Fourth Code: Lizard or Entrada 
Fifth Code: Heart 

Nice work! Now follow the link to get your certificate.  

ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 1

This is the first stop along the ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument experience. The purpose of this activity is to calm and focus the mind to prepare for the coming activities. This activity focuses on a breathing exercise and meditation. You may listen to the audio portion for a guided meditation or read the self-guided meditation below. Once the activity is complete, you can answer the clue to release the first code word to advance your ESCAPE.

Self-Guided Meditation

Set a timer for 1 to 2 minutes. Find a comfortable position either seated or standing. Breathe in for four counts, hold for four counts, breathe out for four counts, and hold for four counts. This is called "square-breathing." You can imagine a square as you follow this cycle of breath until the timer goes off. If you feel comfortable, lower or close your eyes. Ready yourself, set your timer, and focus on your breath.

First Code Clue

Clue: In this exercise we focused on this six-letter word to calm and focus our minds.   

Write down the word and save it for later. If you are in a group, consider designating a “code keeper” to keep track of the code-words.  

Now that you have your word, move to “ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 2” to continue.

Want more?

If you enjoyed that activity and would like a moment to reflect, write down a few words that come to mind following the breathing exercise. How did it feel? What were you thinking about? If you are participating on the tour with others, consider sharing your reflections with a buddy.  

ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 2

Welcome to the second stop along the ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument experience. The purpose of this activity is to foster connection and trust with other people. We build trust in many ways: listening, sharing stories, etc. Like all the activities in this ESCAPE experience, there are options to do this activity solo or as a group. Once the activity is complete, you can answer the clue to release the second code word.

Group Trust Activity

Have you had the time lately to share your thoughts? What’s been on your mind? Sharing our thoughts can foster connection, trust, and build relationships with others. In this activity, you are going to get the opportunity to share your thoughts with one or two other people. If you are working in a group, divide yourselves into pairs or groups of three. Get your timers out once more. Choose one of the questions from the list below to answer. Each person will be given two minutes to answer the question with no interruptions. The speaker should take breaks when they need to and embrace silence if they are done speaking. The listeners should listen actively.  For the entire two minutes, only one voice should be heard. Try your best to maintain eye contact for the whole two minutes. Choose from the following questions, pick an order to speak, set the timer, and go!  

1. What brings you joy about being outside?   
2. If you could choose to do just one activity in the day, what would it be and why?  
3. Who is your favorite person to spend time with, why?   
4. Don’t like these topics? Choose your own topic.

Solo Trust Activity

Have you had time lately to share your thoughts? Sharing what’s on our minds can foster connection, trust, and build relationships with others. In this activity, you are going to have the opportunity to share your thoughts by writing a letter or note to someone special. Don’t have a paper and writing utensil? Consider using text message or e-mail. Sometimes we do not get the chance to share special experiences with others. Take in the world around you. Now in a letter or note addressed to someone you love or trust answer one of the following questions:   

1. What brings you joy about being outside?   
2. If you could choose to do just one activity in the day, what would it be and why?  
3. Who is your favorite person to spend time with, why?   
4. Don’t like these topics? Choose your own topic.

Second Code Clue

Clue: When we share cool facts or stories about our lives with our friends, we build this five-letter word.    

Write down the word and save it for later. Consider designating a “code keeper” in the group to remember or keep track of the code-words.  

Now that you have your word, move to “ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 3” to continue. 

Want more?

If you enjoyed that activity and would like a moment to reflect, write down a few words that come to mind following the exercise. How did it feel to be able to speak or write, uninterrupted? Was it hard to listen and not interrupt during the silences? For the group activity, how did eye contact feel? If it’s okay to share, what cool fact did you learn about your partner(s)?   

ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 3

This is the third stop along the ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument experience. The purpose of this activity is to identify those people in our lives who build up our self-confidence and add positivity to our lives. Once the activity is complete, you can answer the clue to release the third code.

Bust The Crust Activity

Look around your feet. Did you know there is a lot of biological activity in dirt? Have you noticed the bumpy, knobby, and sometimes dark soil along the trails? That’s biological soil crust! Just like a coral reef is formed over time by lots of small organisms living together, soil crust is formed the same way. Moss, lichen, green algae, cyanobacteria (sigh-AN-oh bacteria), and microfungi all work together to hold sand grains in place and create an environment where seeds can grow. We as people are a bit like the earth’s crust. We have a lot going on inside ourselves that help us be strong: we give our bodies rest, we give our bodies nutrition, some of us get exercise by playing with friends or playing sports. One of our “crust layers” we want to keep intact are our friendships. We want people in our lives who won’t BUST OUR CRUSTS. We want to keep ourselves, our friends, and each other intact. Think about being bullied – that can really bust our crust! Now think about spending time with someone you really like – doesn’t that feel good? Like the biological crust – a single footprint off the trail can erase decades of growth. Bullying, teasing, and intimidating break us down just like crust. Build others up – positivity is contagious!

Take a few moments to reflect on some things that “bust our crusts”. Not too long – we don’t want to spend too much time focusing on the things that bother us. Now, take a moment to think about the people in your life who help build up your crust. Maybe it’s your best friend who always makes you laugh or shares the best memes. Or perhaps it is someone online you play video games with. Maybe it’s a grandparent or someone you play sports with. These positive people, the ones who “build up our crust” are the people we want to surround ourselves with. Not people who break us down – and bust our crusts! When we form friendships and bonds with positive people, we let them in to see who we truly are. It can be scary to open up and be vulnerable with another person, but it’s worth it! These are the people who you can lean on when the times get hard – and I bet you can return that favor to them when they need a positive influence in their lives. We help build each other’s layers – just like the geology in the rocks all around you here at Colorado National Monument.

Third Code Clue

Clue: being this eight-letter word builds us up, and builds our crust, being negative break us down.

Write down your answer and save it for later. Consider designating a “code keeper” in the group to remember or keep track of the code-words.

Now that you have your word, move to “ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 4” to continue. 

Want More?

If you enjoyed this activity, think about how you can be a positive influence on someone else. When you are having a bad day, what are some ways you can still have a positive outlook on yourself, or how can you create positive thoughts about tomorrow?

ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 4

This is the fourth stop along the ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument experience. The purpose of this activity is to build your mental agility by solving logic questions. There are two activity options. One is more challenging, and one is less challenging. You can do both, but only one is needed to reveal the next code word. Once the activity is complete, you can answer the clue to release the fourth code word. 

Less Challenging Problem-Solving Question 

Animals adapt to the environments they live in. These changes help animals survive. There are several cool animals at Colorado National Monument that thrive in this environment because of their special adaptations. Can you match the adaptations to the animals? Choose from the following animals:

Desert Cottontail, Striped Skunk, Lizard, Mule Deer, Peregrine Falcon, Red-spotted Toad.    

Adaptation 1: I skydive from canyon rims as fast as 200 mph to capture prey, usually smaller birds, or rodents.  

Adaptation 2: My big ears release heat to help me regulate body temperature  

Adaptation 3: I have a seat patch that helps me absorb water from the soil  

Adaptation 4: I am an omnivore, so I eat plants and animals  

Adaptation 5: I eat only plants. I am an herbivore.   

Adaptation 6: When it is cold outside, I store fat in my tail.
    

Select from the list of animals above and match to their adaptation.

More Challenging Problem-Solving Question

Layers of soil, rock, and debris are called “stratigraphy.” There are many layers within Colorado National Monument. Unfortunately, we have mixed up the order of the layers and we need your help putting them back in order from oldest to youngest. The layers include the following:

Wingate, Entrada, Morrison, Kayenta, Precambrian Basement, and Chinle.    

Follow the hints to put these in the correct order from oldest to youngest:   

Hint 1: Precambrian Basement must come before all.   

Hint 2: Entrada is not the newest layer  

Hint 3: Entrada comes after Wingate but is not directly above it   

Hint 4: Chinle came before Wingate  

Hint 5: Wingate is older than Kayenta  

Hint 6: Morrison comes after Entrada

Put the six layers in order from oldest to youngest.

Fourth Code Clue

Less challenging clue: “When it is cold outside, I store food in my fat tail. What animal am I?”  

More challenging clue: In order from oldest to youngest, what is the fifth layer?  

Write down your answer(s) and save it/them for later. Consider designating a “code keeper” in the group to remember or keep track of the code-words.    

Now that you have your word(s), move to “ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 5” to continue.

Want More?

Did you enjoy working on your mental abilities? Consider doing both activities on this page. If you want even more, ask in the Visitor Center about the Junior Ranger Program!   

ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 5

Welcome to the fifth stop along the ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument experience. The purpose of this activity is to provide time and space for a walking meditation and reflection in nature to absorb what you have learned. Like all the activities in this ESCAPE experience, there are options to do this activity solo or as a group. Once the activity is complete, you can use the four code words that you have collected so far, to answer the final clue. 

Mindfulness Activity

It is time once more to take out your timer. As a group or as an individual, it is time to embrace silence and reflect on your experience today. Take a walk or choose a location to stand or sit comfortably. If you are in a group, try not to go in the same direction, but stay within sight of adults in the group. Set the timer for five or more minutes. While on the walk or in your comfortable position reflect on the following thoughts: What unique strength helped you complete the activities today? How did you shine during these activities? (these strengths could be something like good listener, good storyteller, empathetic, sensitive, good at making other smile or laugh, good at problem solving etc.)

Once the timer goes off, it is time to write down your strength. With a pen/pencil or paper write down the unique strength you thought of while walking in nature. If you do not have something to write with, just make a mental note of your strength. You do not need to share your strength out loud. Save this paper in a special place. Maybe you have the perfect spot in your locker or in your wallet.

The Fifth Code Word

You will use letters from the four codes collected so far to fill in the blank.  

CLUE: When John Otto visited this area, he reflected on his visit by saying, “I came here last year and found these canyons, and they feel like the [BLANK] of the world to me.” 

Directions: 

1. use the last letter from the first code 
2. use the last letter from the second code
3. use the last letter from third code
4. use the fourth and fifth letter from the fourth code (Hint: these are the same whether you did the less or more difficult activity) 

Next: Unscramble the five letters to fill in the missing five-letter word from the John Otto quote.

Write down the word and save it for later. Consider designating a “code keeper” in the group to remember or keep track of the code-words  

Now that you have your word, move to “ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Final Stop” to check your answers and ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument.

Want more?

If you completed this activity with a class, consider making a “tree of our strengths.” Print or draw a large tree to hang in the classroom or at home. Use sticky note paper or tape to attach the individual strengths to the tree to resemble leaves. Your tree reflects the unique strengths that are present in your group. This is a special view of who you are and what you can accomplish as a group and as individuals.  

 

Echo Canyon Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From the east entrance, travel 0.2 miles (0.3 km). Limited parking is on the left. For additional parking, turn right into the Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. This trail starts out as the Old Gordon Trail, at the same trailhead as No Thoroughfare and Devils Kitchen.
• Mileage: 1.5 one way (2.8 km)
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation: 4,990 to 5,060 feet (1521 to 1542 meters)
• Average time: 2 hours
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Follow Old Gordon Trail for 0.5 miles to a signed junction directing hikers down the slickrock into Echo Canyon. This canyon's shady interior offers an escape from the relentless midsummer heat and ends at a pool beneath towering cottonwood trees.

Historic Tour Starting Point Saddlehorn Visitor Center

The Mission 66 initiative began taking shape in early 1955. The main goal was to complete various projects by the 50th Anniversary of the National Park Service (NPS) in 1966. Major projects/ideas considered in this initiative were visitor centers, campgrounds, improved roads and trails systems, and the addition of more park personnel to handle the increased influx of park visitors.Over 100 visitor centers were constructed during this time period. This was the major concept of Mission 66, providing visitors with a “one-stop” service unit equipped with an information desk, uniformed rangers, lobby exhibits, illustrated talks, museum, library, and restrooms, along with administrative areas.
The Saddlehorn Visitor Center was started in 1962 and officially opened on Colorado National Monument’s 52nd anniversary on May 24, 1963.  Prior to the visitor center, visitors obtained information from park staff at the entrance stations and through the park’s brochure. This visitor center was designed by NPS architect, Cecil Doty, and was true to the Mission 66 form of being stylish and modern for the time period.  It was encapsulated with sandstone to match the surrounding canyon walls with large glass windows and an outside back porch area offering outstanding vistas of the monument.  
Inside the exhibit hall highlights the monument’s geology, wildlife and history through displays and a short film. The visitor center is also the monument’s headquarters, with several administrative offices, an informational lobby, as well as the Colorado National Monument Association’s gift shop.  
Two of the exterior doors along the breezeway (west side) of the visitor center would have led to the original public restrooms (now offices).  There have been several major changes over the decades, with one of the largest being the addition of the restroom/comfort station complex southwest of the visitor center, around 1980.  You will notice the newer building mimics and complements the Visitor Center design and sandstone rock work.  It does not diminish the integrity of the original building.
The original flagstone steps that led down to the visitor center’s front doors were also replaced with a concrete ramp to comply with American Disabilities Act requirements.The plaque recognizing the first director of the National Park Service, Stephen Mather, was installed in 1987, along with the small exhibit board area providing visitors with basic monument information directly across from the plaque.  In 1995, a plaque and statue of John Otto on his horse was placed along the north wall of the restroom building.In 2022, the visitor center was returned to most of its original 1960s color scheme after all exterior/interior surfaces/doors were painted brown and tan circa 1980.
Note in the 1960's photograph the Kentucky blue grass “lawn” in front of the Visitor Center. It was replaced with more appropriate desert garden landscaping in the 1980s.
 

Liberty Cap Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: Two access points:
  • (1) Wildwood Trailhead
    • from the west entrance, turn right onto Highway 340 (going east); continue 6.5 miles (10.5 km) and turn right at the light on South Broadway; go 1.2 miles (1.9 km) and turn left onto Wildwood Drive; from Wildwood Drive, go 0.5 miles (0.8 km); watch closely for a brown trailhead sign on the right at what appears to be driveway; turn down this road to the trailhead
    • from the east entrance, proceed north on Monument Road 0.6 miles (1.0 km); turn left on South Camp Road; drive 2.6 miles (4.2 km) to its junction with South Broadway; turn left and go 0.5 miles (0.8 km); turn left onto Wildwood Drive and go 0.5 miles (0.8 km); watch closely for a brown trailhead sign on the right at what appears to be driveway; turn down this road to the trailhead
  • (2) Upper Liberty Cap Trailhead
    • from the Saddlehorn Visitor Center, turn left onto Rim Rock Drive and drive 6.4 miles (10.3 km) to the trailhead on the left.
• Mileage: 7.0 one way (11.3 km)
• Difficulty Level: Steep at lower trailhead; easy at upper trailhead.
• Elevation: 4,800 to 6,550 feet (1463 to 1996 meters) from lower trailhead to upper trailhead.
• Average time: 4-5 hours
• Usage: Hiking. Horseback riding is permitted along the upper 5.0 miles (8.0 km).
• Description (from lower access): Trail ascends steeply for 2 miles from the Grand Valley floor to Liberty Cap rock formation. Trail winds across gently sloping Monument Mesa through pinyon-juniper forest and sagebrush flats for the final 5.0 miles (8.0 km).

Location of Civilian Conservation Camp NM-2

The area between the Saddlehorn rock formation and the cliff edge was the location of the second Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp. The building of it started August 21st of 1933 and by November 9th of the same year it was ready to be occupied.  It had been built quickly by hired outside labor and was finished by CCC workers.  Those men living at the first camp near today's Upper Monument Canyon trailhead (NM-1) relocated to the NM-2 camp. Th NM-2 camp was also the location of park headquarters. The historic view in this post was taken from the top of the Saddlehorn rock formation. Today, this site is almost indestinguishable from the surrounding landscape.
The buildings in this camp not only housed barracks and a dining hall, but also a library, infirmary and offices. In addition to the work skills the CCC young men gained, many of them also learned or grew more skilled in reading, writing and math through evening classes.

Monument Canyon Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: Two access points:
  • (1) from the Saddlehorn Visitor Center, turn left onto Rim Rock Drive and travel 3.8 miles (6.1 km) to the trailhead on the left. It is also the trailhead for Coke Ovens Trail.
  • (2) from the west entrance of the monument, turn right onto Highway 340 (going east); after 2.1 miles (3.4 km) turn right just beyond mile marker #5 onto a dirt road that appears to be a driveway; go 0.1 mile (0.2 km) to the trailhead.
• Mileage: 6.0 one way (9.7 km)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to steep
• Elevation: 6,140 to 4,700 feet (1871 to 1433 meters) from upper trailhead to lower trailhead.
• Average time: 4 hours
• Usage: Hiking only. Horseback riding permitted along the
  lower 5 miles.
• Description (from upper access): Steep 600-foot descent from the plateau into Monument Canyon where you can walk beside many of the park's major rock formations: Independence Monument, Kissing Couple, and the Coke Ovens. Check out a photo gallery of this hike.

No Thoroughfare Canyon Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From the east entrance, travel 0.2 miles (0.3 km). Limited parking is on the left. For additional parking, turn right into the Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. The trailhead is shared with two other trails: Old Gordon Trail and Devils Kitchen Trail. An upper trailhead enters from the head of the canyon off Little Park Road, accessed from outside the Monument.
• Mileage: 8.5 one way (13.7 km)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous
• Elevation: 5,000 to 6,820 feet (1524 to 2079 meters)
• Average time: Full day
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description (from lower trailhead): Enjoy a moderately easy hike along the canyon wash for 1 mile to the First Pool, sometimes dry by mid summer. Continue for another 0.8 miles to the First Waterfall, also often dry by summertime. Canyon walls rise over 400 feet around you. If you decide to hike the entire canyon, take a compass and topographic map. The trail is unmaintained beyond the second waterfall, which flows seasonally. Isolated. Primitive. Most hikers do not attempt the entire route. Check the weather as flash floods pose an imminent danger.

Old Gordon Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From the east entrance, travel 0.2 miles (0.3 km). Limited parking is on the left. For additional parking, turn right into the Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. The trailhead is shared with two other trails: No Thoroughfare Canyon Trail and Devils Kitchen Trail.
• Mileage: 4.0 one way (6.4 km)
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation: 4,980 to 6,620 feet (1518 to 2018 meters)
• Average time: 2 1/2 hours
• Usage: Hiking and horseback riding.
• Description: Steadily ascending trail that follows the path of a historic lumber and cattle drive road. The park's geologic story is told almost in its entirety through the layers of rock exposed along this mostly undeveloped route. Enjoy the great variety of cacti blooming in the spring.

Otto's Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From Saddlehorn Visitor Center, turn left onto Rim Rock Drive and proceed 1.0 mile (1.6 km) to the trailhead on the left.
• Mileage: 0.5 one way (0.8 km)
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation: 5,800 to 5,600 feet (1768 to 1707 meters)
• Average time: 1/2 hour
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Gently sloping trail that leads through pinyon-juniper woodlands to an overlook with views of Sentinel Spire, Pipe Organ, Praying Hands, and Independence Monument.

Rim Rock Drive (Colorado National Monument)

Rim Rock Drive is a 23 mile paved, two-lane road through Colorado National Monument. This road was primarily constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and 1940s. The east side was completed by the Works Progress Administration during the 1950s. This construction allowed Serpent's Trail to become a walking/hiking trail.
The road climbs from a valley elevation of 4,690 feet to the highest point on the mesa at 6,640 feet. It employs a series of switchbacks on both ends, with two short curved tunnels on the west side and one longer tunnel on the east side. While initially a dirt road, it was paved between 1947 and 1951.
The purpose of Rim Rock Drive was to allow travelers scenic vistas and views of the magnificent geologic formations of the monument. In addition to the scenic views a eagle-eyed visitor will notice rock retaining walls, guard walls, drainage tunnels and drop inlets. These features contribute to the historic nature of the road.
Turnouts or overlooks were an intergral part of this scenic roadway permitting motorists to apuse while viewing the geologic formations and natural vistas along Rim Rock Drive. Many of these turnouts feature informational signs explaining the significance of the area.
The image is from an area about approximate 3 miles from the Visitor Center.

Saddlehorn Campground Kiosk

When camping became popular as an inexpensive way to stay at parks, different services had to be considered.  Gone were the days of staying at the big lodges within park boundaries, as more people drove (versus train travel) and were looking for less costly accommodations. For Colorado National Monument, loops A and B were added in 1966 to further expand camping sites that originally were only located in what is now Loop C.  Since the park is usually open 24 hours, a simple kiosk was also constructed so campers could pay upon arrival (there was no reservation system back then.) 
Even though this kiosk was not fully documented (along with other small-scaled features constructed during CCC or Mission 66 eras), it’s still used today as a self-service fee station, and is being preserved to showcase the history of Mission 66 developments in Colorado National Monument.
 

Saddlehorn Picnic Area

There are several great locations to enjoy a picnic at Colorado National Monument. Saddlehorn Picnic Area is located just a minute's drive from Saddlehorn Visitor Center. It has a large parking area, 45 picnic tables, 18 charcoal-only grills (No Wood Fires), a drinking fountain, bathrooms open seasonally, and garbage/recycling.

Saddlehorn Picnic Area can be reserved for special events, permits and fees apply. Things to note for event reservations:

1. Event participants must park in the Saddlehorn Picnic Area parking lot.
2. Maximum number of parking spaces that can be occupied is 10.

This picnic area started out in the 1930s as a baseball field for the Civilian Conservation Corps men housed at the NM-2 camp just a quarter mile from here. Baseball was one of several recreational activities the men participated in when not working.
Later picnic tables and a restroom were added. Generations of families have picniked in this site.

Serpents Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: From the east entrance, travel 0.2 miles (0.3 km). Limited parking is on the left. For additional parking, turn right into the Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. The upper trailhead parking area is 2.3 miles past this point, just after the tunnel.
• Mileage: 1.75 one way (2.8 km)
• Difficulty Level: Steep
• Elevation: 5,060 to 5,760 feet (1542 to 1756 meters)
• Average time: 1 hour
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Called "the crookedest road in the world," this historic trail has 16 switchbacks. The trail climbs steadily from east to west through Wingate Sandstone. Built in the early 1900s, this route was part of the main road until 1950.

Ute Canyon Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: Three access points:
  • (1) from the Saddlehorn Visitor Center, turn left onto Rim Rock Drive and travel 9.3 miles (15.0 km) to the trailhead on the left
  • (2) from the west entrance of the monument, turn right onto Highway 340 (going east); after 6.5 miles (10.5 km) turn right at the light onto South Broadway; go 1.2 miles (1.9 km) and turn left onto Wildwood Drive; watch closely for a brown trailhead sign on the right at 0.5 miles (0.8 km); turn down the road to the trailhead
  • (3) from the east entrance, proceed north on Monument Road 0.6 miles (1.0 km); turn left on South Camp Road; drive 2.6 miles (4.2 km) to its junction with South Broadway; turn left and go 0.5 miles (0.8 km); turn left onto Wildwood Drive and go 0.5 miles (0.8 km); watch closely for a brown trailhead sign on the right at what appears to be driveway; turn down this road to the trailhead. The last two access points are shared with Liberty Cap Trail and Corkscrew Trail.
• Mileage: 7.0 one way (11.3 km)
• Difficulty Level: Steep
• Elevation: 6,440 to 4,800 feet (1963 to 1463 meters) from upper trailhead to lower trailhead.
• Average time: 4-5 hours
• Usage: Hiking. Horseback riding is permitted along the boundary of the monument to the base of the escarpment only.
• Description (from upper access): Rigorous descent into narrow Ute Canyon from the plateau follows a primitive trail. Route then follows the streambed with seasonal stream and pools bordered by cottonwoods and willows. A few arches may be seen. Unmaintained.

Welcome to ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument

Everybody needs to escape sometimes. Adults usually know how to take a break, take a hike, or take a nap! But what about the young people in your life? Do they know how to recognize when it is time for a break? Do they need some help to build resilience to the pressures in their lives? 

We invite you to ESCAPE to Your National Park with your favorite young people! We have developed an exciting, outdoor experience using the NPS mobile app. This tour has seven stops with five activities that help build resilience in youth by challenging their self-reflection, connection to others, optimism for the future, mental agility, and strength of character.

Directions  

1. The app page may be downloaded so that you do not need internet service to complete the activity. You may need to download and save the Colorado National Monument app page for offline use before beginning your experience.
2. Choose a starting location. You can do this from home, or while walking the Alcove Nature Trail near the visitor center.
3. Complete the challenge and find the code word at each stop. At each stop you will be unearthing a code word. This code will help you unlock the final clue and ESCAPE to your park. Keep notes along the way on a piece of paper or on a mobile device. If you are working in a group, consider assigning a member of your group as the "code keeper”.
4. Solve the final code and ESCAPE! At the fifth stop you will use the four words unearthed so far to unlock a final code word. Upon solving the code, you will have completed your ESCAPE adventure! 
5. ESCAPE to your park. At the final stop titled "ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Final Stop," you can check your answers and download your official ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Certificates. If you are in the park, certificates will be available to pick up in the visitor center. 

Ready to begin? Go to the next stop called "ESCAPE to Colorado National Monument Stop 1". Good luck and have fun!

Window Rock Trail (Colorado National Monument)

• Location: Saddlehorn Campground
• Trailhead: Marked trailhead is on the campground one-way road just before Book Cliffs View. Can combine with Canyon Rim Trail for a slightly longer hike.
• Mileage: 0.25 one way (0.4 km)
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation: 5,626 feet (1715 meters)
• Average time: 1/4 hour
• Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
• Description: Level loop trail through pinyon-juniper woodland to overlook with excellent views of Monument and Wedding Canyons and most of their major rock formations, including Independence Monument. Download the Canyon Rim and Window Rock Trail brochure.

Campgrounds
Knowles Overlook Campground
Saddlehorn Campground
Jouflas Campground

Saddlehorn Campground

Weather/Forecast - Sun May 19, 2024

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Features Located Near Colorado National Monument, CO

Campgrounds