I’ve been through Grand Junction many times en route to Moab and points further west. This time I stayed in town for a few days in order to explore Colorado National Monument and Grand Mesa.

Colorado National Monument is a medium-size national park above Grand Junction. There are two entrances, one a few miles south of Grand Junction and the other to the west in the town of Fruita; the latter home to a dated but nice visitor center. The winding Rim Road connects them both for about 20 miles, climbing to the top from both sides. Inside there are several trails both easy and difficult. Most of them lead down into the canyon. Great two days, and some goods shots of bighorn sheep eating dinner and kicking rocks around.

The monument spans over 20,000 acres and boasts a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Rim Rock Drive, which offers stunning views of the canyons, mesas, and rock formations. There are also numerous picnic areas and camping spots throughout the monument, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend camping trip.

One of the highlights of Colorado National Monument is the red rock formations, which are the result of millions of years of erosion and geological activity. The most notable formations include Independence Monument, Kissing Couple, and Coke Ovens, which are easily accessible via hiking trails or scenic drives.

In addition to hiking and camping, Colorado National Monument offers a variety of other outdoor activities, including rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The monument is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and golden eagles, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The park is open year-round, with the peak season being from May through September when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, the park’s rugged terrain and varying weather conditions make it essential to be prepared for any weather conditions, including sudden temperature drops, thunderstorms, and snow.

Visitors to Colorado National Monument are advised to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking and other outdoor activities. The park also has a visitor center that provides information on the monument’s history, geology, and wildlife, as well as maps and trail guides.