National Monument · CO

Things to do in Colorado

The National Park Service lists 13 things to do at Colorado National Monument. 8 have no extra fee, 12 need no reservation, and 1 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.

Updated · NPS Data API

All (13) Hiking (5)Scenic Driving (2)Backcountry Camping (1)Rock Climbing (1)Junior Ranger Program (1)Road Biking (1)Bookstore and Park Store (1)Museum Exhibits (1)
sunset turns canyon walls a vibrant red-orange
Photo: NPS Photo / N Scarborough

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.

1-7 Days Spring, Summer, Fall Reservation required

Backcountry Camping

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.

Rock Climbing

A low, mostly flat building with a flagpole and shrubs, standing before a desert canyon
Photo: NPS Photo

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.

1-8 Hours Spring, Summer, Fall

Hiking

Dirt trail goes into desert canyon
Photo: NPS Photo / Spencer Stokes

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.

15-360 Minutes Year-round Fee applies

Hiking

gravel road leads to dirt parking lot, backdrop of sparsely vegetated canyon slops
Photo: NPS Photo / A Jackson

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.

4-6 Hours Year-round

Hiking

spacious store, wall-sized windows, various items for sale, hats, postcards, books, walking sticks
Photo: NPS Photo / N Scarborough

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.

10-60 Minutes Year-round

Bookstore and Park Store

two adults and two children stand on dirt path looking out towards wide open canyons
Photo: NPS Photo

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.

20-60 Minutes Year-round Fee applies

Hiking

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.

15-60 Minutes Year-round

Museum Exhibits

Looking down at road as it curls into and out of red rock canyon.
Photo: NPS Photo / P Akers

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.

2-4 Hours Year-round Fee applies Pets allowed

Scenic Driving

Before you go

Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for Colorado. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.

Things to do at nearby parks

Sources