Welcome to the Colorado National Monument Tour
Discover red rock country at its finest with this self-guided driving tour through Colorado National Monument. Gaze up at the iconic Independence Monument, a towering spire rising from the canyon floor. Marvel at the natural sculptures of Coke Ovens Overlook, shaped by millennia of erosion. Take in sheer cliffside views at Cold Shivers Point. Wander through rugged formations at Devil’s Kitchen Trail. This drive blends dramatic geology, quiet solitude, and wild western beauty.
About the Tour
The tour begins at the official Colorado National Monument Sign, ushering you into a landscape carved by time. Take in your first sweeping vista at Redlands View, then pass by the massive Balanced Rock—perched like it’s defying gravity. As you climb the winding Fruita Canyon Road, enjoy the breathtaking Fruita Canyon View and gaze out at Window Rock, a natural arch etched by erosion.
At Book Cliffs View, you’ll spot the distant ridge that frames this region, and the Window Rock Nature Trail offers an easy stroll with incredible overlooks. Pause at the Amphitheater, a natural rock bowl perfect for photos, then take a short break at Saddlehorn Comfort Station before setting out again.
Otto’s Trailhead is up next, named after John Otto, the monument’s eccentric founder and relentless promoter. You’ll hear Otto’s story as you head toward Independence Monument View—where a towering sandstone pillar rises from the canyon floor. Then, look out from Grand View and Monument Canyon View, both offering stunning perspectives of the layered red rock formations below.
At Coke Ovens Overlook, take in rounded formations that look like—you guessed it—old-fashioned ovens. Upper Monument Canyon and Liberty Cap trailheads offer a glimpse into some of the park’s more remote hiking areas. Fallen Rock Overlook marks where a massive slab once broke away from the canyon wall, a reminder of nature’s slow, powerful work.
Ute Canyon View Trail and Red Canyon Overlook continue the parade of epic vistas, followed by Cold Shivers Point—a viewpoint perched at the edge of a dizzying drop. Then it’s on to Serpent Trail, once dubbed the “crookedest road in the world,” with switchbacks that make it a thrill to drive.
Devil’s Kitchen Trail leads you into a maze of towering stone, while nearby Lunch Loop Trailhead draws both hikers and mountain bikers from Grand Junction. Finally, you’ll roll into the city itself, wrapping up your journey through one of the West’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
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Where To Start?
Recommended Starting Point:
Eastbound: 609 CO-340, Fruita, CO 81521, USA
Westbound: 401 Mulberry St, Grand Junction, CO 81501, USA
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Colorado National Monument is renowned for its dramatic red rock canyons, towering monoliths, and expansive views of the Colorado Plateau. Rim Rock Drive, a scenic highway winding through the park, is a major highlight.
Our Colorado National Monument Self-Guided Driving Tour follows the iconic Rim Rock Drive, guiding you to breathtaking overlooks, hiking trailheads, and hidden gems. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about the park’s stunning rock formations, wildlife, and history — with optional stops for photography, picnicking, and short hikes like the Canyon Rim and Otto’s Trails.
Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–October) are the best seasons to experience Colorado National Monument comfortably. With our Self-Guided Driving Tour, you can enjoy the scenic drive and stops at your own pace, no matter the season — but keep in mind that summer heat and winter snow may impact hiking plans.
Our Self-Guided Tour works from either entrance: the west entrance near Fruita (Exit 19 off I-70) or the east entrance near Grand Junction (via Monument Road). Simply download the tour beforehand, start your journey at either end, and enjoy GPS-triggered narration all along Rim Rock Drive.
Pets are welcome on paved areas like scenic pullouts along Rim Rock Drive, but they’re not allowed on hiking trails. With our Self-Guided Tour, you and your pet can still enjoy incredible views from the overlooks — just remember to keep them leashed at all times.
After completing your drive through Colorado National Monument, you can explore nearby gems like the town of Fruita (great for mountain biking), the Colorado River, and the Museum of the West in Grand Junction — all perfect additions to your adventure!
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
