Monument Canyon Path
By the dearth of individuals we noticed ultimately go to to Colorado Nationwide Monument, we developed a idea.
We bought to pondering individuals from the Entrance Vary driving west all too typically preserve driving west via Grand Junction and Fruita, onward to Moab. These crimson rocks are certainly marvelous in Utah. However maybe too neglected are these nice formations in Colorado.
The monument occupies the identical plateau as Arches and Canyonlands nationwide park — however right here, the individuals are a lot fewer. And whereas the 23-mile point-to-point cruise on Rim Rock Drive is the most typical method to expertise the protect from above, to not be missed is the spectacular enterprise beneath.
From the street’s sweeping overlooks, the way in which down appears to be like daunting. However the Higher Monument Canyon trailhead serves as an approachable half-day portal.
Particularly within the warmth of summer time, you will need to convey loads of water. And you may need to be sure these knees are limbered up; the 600-foot descent is steep happening and harsher on the way in which again up.
It’s a gorgeous drop via 50 million years of geologic marvel. You may really feel enveloped by the crimson gorge early, near the left flip on the signed path junction.
We discovered the path to be well-maintained and -marked, however at some rock sections, you will need to pay shut consideration. That is particularly as the way in which again up will not look fairly the identical as the way in which down. Basic rule of thumb: Search for the clearly outlined steps.
On the valley flooring, we met a trickling creek and noticed a number of early-season wildflowers. We have been lucky, too, for the colourful presence of the collared lizard.
Extra prizes are forward: nearer views of towers referred to as Kissing Couple and Independence Monument.
Journey log: 3½ miles one method to Independence Monument, elevation adjustments from 6,140 toes and 5,289 toes
Issue: Reasonable-difficult
Getting there: On Interstate 70 west via Grand Junction, take exit 19 for Colorado 340 towards Fruita. At visitors circle, take exit for 340 east towards Colorado Nationwide Monument. Higher Monument Canyon trailhead is 4 miles previous customer middle.
FYI: $25 entrance charge for car. Mountain climbing solely on path. No canine on path.
SETH BOSTER, THE GAZETTE