General information about the National Monument
The National Monument protects the northeast corner of the Colorado Plateau. Over millions of years, erosion has formed bizarre sandstone formations more than 600 meters high along the edge of the plateau.
Number of visitors
Best time to visit: It is nice here all year round.
Our visits:
So far 4 visits: October 2011, October 2014, October 2018, May 2023
Entrance fees and opening hours
- 25$/car valid for 7 days
- Covered by the Anual Pass*
- Open 24h all year round.
*The Anual Pass is so to speak the "flat rate" for all Parks managed by the National Park Service. The pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and can be purchased at the entrance to each National Park, National Monument, etc. The pass is valid for 13 months.
Colorado NM
Description: Colorado NM is located on the far western edge of Colorado. Rim Rock Drive takes visitors from the eastern entrance to a high plateau. The drive along the rim offers spectacular views of the unusual sandstone formations and the valley of the Colorado River.
Our rating: We realized that we had somewhat underestimated Colorado NM when we visited it with our friends in October 2014. For them it was the first canyon on their first visit to the Southwest. They were totally blown away by the size and unusual shapes of the sandstone cliffs, and so we, as spoiled USA travelers, who have already seen far more spectacular, really learned to appreciate the National Monument anew through their eyes. It is a great park with very beautiful corners and we can recommend a side trip to anyone who is traveling here in the area. Even if you don't like hiking, you can enjoy the most beautiful views here without much effort.
