Discover Stunning Rock Formations in Colorado National Monument

Rock scrambling opportunities increase the view factor.

by Scott Anderson

Slickrock ledge makes up part of the trail.

by Scott Anderson

High above the canyon.

by Scott Anderson

View the canyon in the distance.

by Scott Anderson

Amazing rock formations seen throughout the canyon hike.

by Scott Anderson

Climbers on Independence Monument.

by Scott Anderson

Rock Spires.

by Scott Anderson

Gorgeous wildflowers in the spring.

by Scott Anderson

A vast canyon.

by Scott Anderson

Descending deep into the canyon.

by Scott Anderson

Rock steps built into the trail.

by Scott Anderson

Sun setting on the canyon.

by Scott Anderson

Colorful rock on the canyon walls.

by Scott Anderson

Slick rock.

by Scott Anderson

Views of the mesas.

by Scott Anderson

Views of Grand Junction, CO

by Scott Anderson

One of 16 switchbacks.

by Scott Anderson

This overlook gives views of Rimrock Road.

by Scott Anderson

While the road climb looks gentle, it climbs nearly 800' over its 1¾ miles.

by Scott Anderson

Steps are cut into the slickrock.

by Scott Anderson

Scramble up to a cubby hole for a rest.

by Scott Anderson

Lots of places to explore at Devils Kitchen.

by Scott Anderson

Get up to a higher view.

by Scott Anderson

Overlooking the valley below.

by Scott Anderson

Beautiful sunsets on this route.

by Scott Anderson

Grand views of Fruita, CO

by Scott Anderson

Slickrock trail most of the way.

by Scott Anderson

Rock formations all around.

by Scott Anderson

Golden colors in the autumn.

by Scott Anderson

Description

"Colorado National Monument is an absolutely gorgeous place that very few hikers know about," writes Nancy Anderson. "It is Colorado's version of the Grand Canyon... without all the people!"

Indeed, this epic natural area is home to towering red rock cliffs, deep canyons, and rock monoliths, along with an expansive network of hiking trails. Even from the paved Rim Rock Drive road "you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles," according to the National Park Service. This all adds up to way more adventure than most people can fit into a visit to the monument!

Sources:
https://www.nps.gov/colm/index.htm

Black Ridge Trail

11.0 km

A beautiful backcountry trail with plenty of solitude.

Private

Monument Canyon Trail

10.6 km

A stunning sampler of the canyon's best rock sculptures.

Private

Echo Canyon Trail

4.4 km

A short hike to a lovely box canyon.

Private

5.9 km

16 switchbacks take hikers up a historic old road.

Private

Devils Kitchen Trail

1.8 km

A short hike to a lovely rock grotto.

Private

Old Gordon Trail

10.2 km

A gorgeous slickrock route with plenty of scrambling opportunities.

Private