Basic Information

 

 
A view of storm clouds over a canyon
Storm clouds over the monument

NPS Photo / Abigail Winters

Reservations
Reservations or timed entry are not needed for entry into Colorado National Monument. Reservations are required for the Saddlehorn Campground.

Motorist Safety
Motorists will be sharing the spectacular Rim Rock Drive with bicyclists. Read important regulations here.

Tunnels
Be aware that there are three tunnels on Rim Rock Drive. There are two tunnels on the west side and one on the east side of the park. Vehicle lights and/or bicycle lights are required while traveling through the tunnels. Maximum tunnel height is 16 feet at the center line. For more information, click here.

Services
Upon arrival, stop by the visitor center for current information on everything from road conditions to hiking trails, camping, and ranger-led programs. Rangers and volunteers are available to answer questions, give out Junior Ranger booklets, and provide information regarding all aspects of safely visiting Colorado National Monument.

The
Colorado National Monument Association operates a bookstore in the park visitor center. Water, sunscreen, and hats are available, along with a wide selection of books, maps and gift items. You can also purchase from their online store.

Other services are readily available in the adjacent communities of Grand Junction and Fruita. Visit the
Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau and the City Of Fruita for more information.

Pets
Pets are not allowed on trails in the monument and must stay on paved areas only. Pets are allowed in the campground. Please check out all of the regulations here.

Accessibility
Accessible restrooms are located at the visitor center, Saddlehorn Campground, and Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. One accessible campsite is located in the campground. Two picnic areas at the Devils Kitchen and the visitor center are accessible. Independence Monument View and Cold Shivers Point are accessible overlooks along Rim Rock Drive.

Hearing Impaired
For visitors with hearing impairments, headphones are available for use while watching the two videos in the visitor center auditorium, as well as a audio tour of the Visitor Center exhibit hall. A variety of publications may be obtained at the visitor center. Wayside exhibits with illustrations and text on natural and cultural features are situated throughout the park and in the visitor center.

Alcohol Policy
The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all areas of the Colorado National Monument, except for the following designated areas and times:
Within the Saddlehorn Campground area. The Saddlehorn picnic area during established hours for recreational use. The Devils Kitchen Picnic area during established hours for recreational use.

Gnats
Gnats (biting midges) can be a concern from mid-May through mid-July. Bring bug spray!
 
The spectacular Rim Rock Drive
The spectacular Rim Rock Drive

Last updated: December 3, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1750 Rim Rock Drive
Fruita, CO 81521

Phone:

970 858-2800

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