The Colorado National Monument

Located in Fruita, Colorado, this stunning landscape isn’t what comes to mind when you think of Colorado, but it’s giant red rock formations and exploring possibilities make this area a must-do on your Colorado bucket list.  Colorado National Monument’s Rim Rock Drive is one of the most spectacular drives in the United States. Redrock canyons, crisp blue skies, and verdant green juniper splash fantastic views along the way for motorists and bicyclists

Rim Rock Drive Hosts Some Awesome Views

Drive this only if you want to witness the stunning features of this National Park. You can enter the canyon via Rim Rock Drive at either the Grand Junction or Fruita entrance. This 23-mile road winds its way through the park and isn’t for the faint of heart, as it features narrow sections with tight corners and hills. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of viewing areas to stop and catch the view. 

At some point, you’ll probably find yourself asking “what caused this awesome canyon to form?” Get the low-down at the Saddlehorn Visitor Center near the Fruita entrance and check out interactive displays, browse the gift shop and attend entertaining Ranger Programs about geology, wildlife or even Astronomy. 

Hop Out of Your Car – Hiking the Monument

Without a doubt, hiking in or along the plateau is the best way to truly feel the scale and detail of the Monument. 

For an easy hike for all levels, we recommend Otto’s Trail, a 1 mile round trip out-and-back trail to an overlook of Sentinel Spire, Pipe Organ and Praying Hands features. 

Devil’s Kitchen Trail is an awesome choice for families. The moderate hike leads to a cove of boulders perfect for those who want to interact with the canyon’s features. 

Challenge yourself on the Monument Canyon Trail, an 11-mile trek where you’ll get to soak up the many perspectives of the canyon, and even find yourself at the base of Independence Monument, the canyon’s tallest free-standing formation. 

Pedal Through History

Hands down, this is a road cyclist’s dream ride. We all know Fruita is famous for its pedaling culture, so why not explore the Monument by bike? A favorite for road cyclists, Rim Rock Drive is a challenging yet well maintained road so beautiful you won’t even notice the elevation changes! Cruising through the canyon is an experience you won’t soon forget. 

Note to Cyclists::

  • Use your headlights in all tunnels and watch for bicyclists and other vehicles.
    Obey all traffic laws and speed limits. The maximum speed is 25 mph.
  • Do not attempt to proceed around bicyclists unless you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and a safe passing distance. Do not pass in the tunnels.
  • When passing bicyclists, please allow at least three feet of clearance between your vehicle and the bicyclist.
  • Check carefully for bicycles, pedestrians and vehicles before pulling out onto the road from pullouts.
  • Allow other motorists and bicyclists to pass if you are obstructing traffic and there is a safe place to pull over.
  • Remember that bicyclists have all the rights and responsibilities of any vehicle.
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