• View from the Canyon Rim Trail. Photo by Jeff Kochevar

    Colorado

    National Monument Colorado

  • Fire Restrictions in effect

    Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle. Charcoal fires are permitted only in provided grills in the campground and picnic areas. No wood fires. Gas stoves are permitted only in campground and picnic areas. All fireworks are prohibited.

Winter Driving Conditions on Rim Rock Drive - Expect Icy Conditions!

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Date: December 16, 2008

Stormy conditions have made Rim Rock Drive icy and hazardous. Driving across the top of Rim Rock Drive is not recommended due to exceptionally icy conditions. Plowing and sanding will be focused on the east and west hills only during continued stormy periods.

Rim Rock Drive from Colorado National Monument’s visitor center eastward to DS Road will not be plowed during active storms and will not be a primary access road for those who may otherwise use 16 ½ Road in good weather. Commuters needing to access Rim Rock Drive during winter storms should plan to use the DS Road on East Rim Rock Drive to exit the Monument as the rest of Rim Rock Drive will not be plowed.

Once storms subside and conditions permit, Colorado National Monument staff will plow the length of Rim Rock Drive to make it available for all motorists.

Motorists need to give plows ample room and keep a safe distance from snowplows as plow operators may not be able to see cars following too close. Cyclists may not use Rim Rock Drive while plows are working on any portion of the road.

Motorists driving through Colorado National Monument are reminded to drive cautiously and obey posted speed limits. During winter months be prepared to encounter ice and snow conditions at any time and in any location. Be especially alert for ice on the switchbacks on both the east and west hills of Rim Rock Drive. Speed enforcement is being increased and tickets are being issued regularly to speeders including some with mandatory court appearances.

Did You Know?

Independence Monument

Colorado National Monument's Independence Monument is 450 feet tall from its base to its top. The top of Independence Monument is 5,739 feet in elevation.