Ranger Programs at the Colorado National Monument

These are the types of questions the rangers at the Colorado National Monument, located in the western part of the state near Grand Junction and Fruita, are happy to answer: Is it just me, or is that humongous boulder defying gravity? How were these tunnels carved out of the stone? What do you mean it’s a “canyon within a canyon”?

By: Colorado.com Staff Writer
Updated: April 8, 2024

The 32-square-mile spectacular geologic wonder of sandstone mesas and canyons is part of the United States National Park Service and regular ranger programs take place throughout the summer starting in June. 

Red-and purple-streaked striations in water-sculpted cliff walls, whimsically arranged rock formations, sky-high mesas and abundant wildlife can’t help but inspire those who visit to want to know more about how the monument came to be. The free programs offer visitors a chance to learn about the wildlife, vegetation, geology and history that make it unique. Join guided walks along the canyon rim, hear rangers talk about the monuments history, geology and wildlife. Or admire the night skies at a ranger-led stargazing event. You'll also find Junior Ranger programs for kids ages 5 to 12 and many others.

Other activities at the monument can include camping among the pinyon pine in the Saddlehorn Campground, hiking Corkscrew Trail’s switchbacks, photographing the iconic Independence Monument, cycling the 23-mile Rim Rock Road, painting the sandstone panorama at Artists Point and spying golden eagles with your binoculars. Stop at the monument's Rim Rock Shop to view event and activity schedules.

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