Parks / Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument
National Monument · CO
Colorado National Monument preserves one of the grand landscapes of the American West. But this treasure is much more than a monument. Towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. You can experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.
Official NPS page →Current Alerts (3)
Guardrail Repair: Expect Construction Delays
Guardrail repair will take place from 8/25-8/28 and from 8/31-9/4. There will be no full road closures, but delays of up to 30 minutes are possible. Delays will be minimized from 6-9am and from 3:30-6pm. Work on the east side is between Devils Kitchen and Red Canyon Overlook. West side work is between the west entrance and Redlands View overlook. Please be alert for construction workers and flaggers.
Stage II Fire Restrictions
Fire danger is extremely high. No fires (charcoal or wood) are permitted anywhere in the park, including in the campground. No smoking outside of your vehicle. Fireworks are always banned. Check vehicles for dragging chains. Be safe and fire aware!
Lower Monument Canyon Trail Work - Expect Short Delays through August 2026
Monday-Thursday and some Fridays, 7 am to 4:30 pm, mid-May through August, expect trail maintenance on lower Monument Canyon Trail. Work will take place on the lower 2.5 miles of the trail, from the lower trailhead up to the Wedding Canyon intersection at Independence Monument. No closures are currently scheduled, though hikers might experience short delays while traveling through work sites.
Entrance Fees
Campgrounds (1)
Saddlehorn Campground
All Saddlehorn Campground reservations, including same day, MUST be made online at www.recreation.gov. The campground is 4 miles from the west (Fruita) entrance. It is located in an area of Utah juniper and pinyon trees. Sites cost $22 a night, plus entry fee to Monument. One loop is open year-round. There are flush toilets, but no hookups or dump station. Each site has a picnic table and charcoal grill, no wood fires allowed. Max length is 40 feet for RVs, including both trailer and tow vehicle.
Details →Upcoming Events
Up Close and Personal
Sep 1, 2026
Geology of the Monument
Sep 3, 2026
Up Close and Personal
Sep 3, 2026
Astronomy Night
Sep 4, 2026 · The program will be held in the parking lot next to the Saddlehorn Picnic Area. Parking is limited, additional parking is available at the Bookcliff View Shelter and at the Visitor Center.
Geology of the Monument
Sep 5, 2026
The Many Faces of Coyote
Sep 10, 2026
Astronomy Night
Sep 11, 2026 · The program will be held in the parking lot next to the Saddlehorn Picnic Area. Parking is limited, additional parking is available at the Bookcliff View Shelter and at the Visitor Center.
Evening Program: Our Night Skies
Sep 25, 2026
Things to Do
Accessible Visit to Colorado National Monument
Explore accessible ways to visit Colorado National Monument, from visitor center features to short trails to overlooks into the canyons.
Backpacking in the Monument
Backpacking or backcountry camping in the Monument is a great way to deepen your visit with the canyons. Monument, No Thoroughfare, and Ute Canyons, as well as Black Ridge and Monument Mesa, are excellent areas for overnights in the backcountry.
Climbing in the Monument
The sandstone cliffs and spires of Colorado National Monument attract hundreds of climbers a year. Most routes in the park require "traditional" climbing techniques. The installation of new permanent hardware is prohibited.
Hiking from Devils Kitchen Picnic Area
Many incredible hikes begin just inside the East Entrance to the Monument. Choose from short day hikes to longer, more difficult backcountry travel.
Hiking from Saddlehorn Visitor Center
These hikes can be accessed from the visitor center. Several short hikes to incredible views begin here, as well as a longer trail perfect for a night in the backcountry. Come to the visitor center for an orientation film, Junior Ranger booklets, and more.
Hiking in Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument trails offer a hike for everyone from 0.25 mile to over 14 miles, from flat accessible surfaces to rugged canyons.
Junior Ranger of the Monument
Become a Junior Ranger of Colorado National Monument by completing a booklet (pick up at Saddlehorn Visitor Center) to earn your badge.
Monument Canyon Loop Hike
This 5-mile loop can be extended for a deeper exploration into Monument Canyon. We recommend starting at the Lower Monument Canyon Trailhead to avoid the steep switchbacks below Rim Rock Drive.
Road Biking on Rim Rock Drive
Road biking the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive offers cyclists a challenging ride with stunning views.
Shop for Monument Souvenirs
Shop for souvenirs at the Colorado National Monument Association (CNMA) park store, located in Saddlehorn Visitor Center. Preserve your memories of the Monument with keepsakes, apparel, stickers, books, and more. Proceeds from CNMA's retail operations, memberships, and donations support the Monument’s educational, interpretive, and scientific programs.
Short Hikes in the Monument
These out-and-back trails start from along scenic Rim Rock Drive in Colorado National Monument. All are less than two miles round-trip, perfect for short treks from the car to get better views of these outstanding canyons.
Start at Saddlehorn Visitor Center
Begin your visit to Colorado National Monument at the visitor center. Watch the orientation film, explore the exhibit hall, shop for souvenirs at the park store, talk with a ranger, earn your Junior Ranger badge, and get your National Parks Passport stamp.
Travel on Rim Rock Drive
For panoramic views of Colorado National Monument's canyons and rock monoliths, a trip along Rim Rock Drive is a must.
Visitor Centers
- Saddlehorn Visitor Center
Webcams
Source: National Park Service.