Colorado National
Monument - Colorado
 The
Colorado National Monument is 23,000 acres of rock
formations, arches, windows, canyons and exposed layers of
earth. The sandstone artistry of nature plays backdrop to the
entire Grand Valley. Hikers enjoy the trails and spectacular
overlooks accessible from the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive. Sites at
Saddlehorn Campground, near the Visitor Center, are available on
a first-come first-served basis.
The Monument is named after the river
rather than the state, and covers a relatively small area of
eroded red rock formations and canyons just south of the
Colorado near Grand Junction. This town, near the Utah border,
is surrounded in most directions by impressive multi-coloured
rocks; the orange/brown layered Book Cliffs dominate the town
from the north, and extend westwards for nearly 200 miles to the
Manti-la-Sal Mountains of central Utah. Immediately southwest of
the town, tributaries of the Colorado river have carved through
the edge of the high Uncompahgre Plateau - this borders the
Colorado for some distance but only the most scenic area, about
10 by 5 miles, is within the National Monument. This contains
four main canyons, cutting into the plateau for several miles,
with several smaller ravines, isolated towers and pinnacles, and
many other rock formations.
 The
Colorado National Monument Visitor Center is open daily
throughout the year, except Christmas Day, offering museum
exhibits and slide shows about the natural history of the area.
National Park fees and admission to the Monument is $5 per car;
camping fee is $10 per night. (970) 858-3617. |
