Colorado National Monument

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In this page, you will find informations and advices we can give, based on our experience

Colorado National Monument - Colorado

What to do if you have little time : Rim Rock Drive

There are many opportunities for hiking in this park, but by lack of time, we have not done any hiking. We settle for the road through the park, offering many interesting viewpoints : Rim Rock Drive.

Something has displeased us in this park, its proximity to the city of Grand Junction. So that from several viewpoints, including Grand View, which is one of the most interesting, the city is clearly seen. There is better to believe yourself into the wild !

Like many National Monuments, a fee is required at the entrance of the park. It's 15$ per vehicule. If you have the pass "America the beautiful", access is included.

Rim Rock Drive

Length and duration of the hike No hike

2 to 3 hours

15$ per vehicle

This 23 miles road from West to East (37 kms) is a good option to have an overall view of the park. It runs along the canyon with stops possible at the viewpoints. We particularly recommend Grand View (for a panoramic view of the canyon), Book Cliffs View (for sunset), Upper Ute Canyon Overlook (not for the view but for the sound, the echo is incredible) and Ute Canyon View (morning).

Access : for west entrance of the park, take exit 19 on I70 in Fruita. Then follow Highway 340 for 3.1 miles to the entrance of the park. For east entrance, take exit 31 on I70 in Grand Junction and follow the signs.

To see around

There is not much to see around. The closest places to visit are Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Rifle Falls State Park, Arches National Park, but you'll have to drive about 2 hours to get to them.

Lodging

We have tested :

Saddlehorn Campground - Colorado NM : this campground is inside the park. Quiet campsite. No shower, only restrooms with toilet and sinks. $20 a night, it's a bit pricey though.