Colorado National Monument

Explore vast canyons, sandstone and granite rock formations, and impressive monoliths when you visit the Colorado National Monument. You'll find unparalleled canyon views, a wide range of wildlife, and a long list of recreational opportunities.

Visitor Information

Plan your next visit to north-central Colorado and make your way to Grand Junction. You'll find an ease of access to Colorado National Monument from Clifton. The entirety of the monument sprawls to 20,533 acres.

Travel along Interstate 70 or State Route 50 and find your way into the Colorado National Monument. Access to the Colorado National Monument is year round, with only Christmas day seeing closures. The Colorado National Monument Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

There is a fee to enter The Monument, but it's nominal. Visitors 16 and younger get it free. Throughout the year, there are several dates when entrance to the monument is free for all – Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day Weekend, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day to name a few.

Attractions & Activities

Begin your exploration of the Colorado National Monument at the Visitor Center. You'll find all the exact details on ranger-led walks, Junior Ranger programs for the kids, and weather alerts. Whether you're up for a hike, would rather do some bird watching, or if mountain biking is your preferred activity, there's no shortage at this excellent Colorado monument. 

Some of the very best hiking throughout Colorado can be found at the monument. Ute Canyon features four miles of trails – you'll wind your way down half a mile to the base of Ute Canyon, and eventually find the Corkscrew Trail, which loops back around to the Ute Canyon Trailhead.

Devil's Kitchen Trailheads are also exceptional – enjoy some shade when you venture through Echo Canyon. Old Gordon Trail is four miles, and eventually leads to breathtaking views of No Thoroughfare Canyon. 

If you prefer the comfort and luxury of an air conditioned-car, take a tour of the Rim Rock Drive. It's 23 miles and takes you in and around the canyons and plateaus. The Rim Rock Drive is also a popular cycling destination.