Nature & Science

Most of Colorado National Monument rises more than 2,000 feet above the Grand Valley of the Colorado River. Situated at the edge of the Uncompahgre Uplift, the monument is part of the greater Colorado Plateau, which also embraces such geologic wonders as Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Arches National Parks.

This is a semi-desert land of pinyon pines and junipers, ravens and jays, desert bighorns and coyotes. Magnificent views from highland trails and the Rim Rock Drive stretch from the colorful geology of sheer-walled canyons and fascinating rock sculptures to the distant Colorado River valley, the purple-gray Book Cliffs, and the huge flat-topped mountain called Grand Mesa. Science done in the park provides insight into how these interconnected elements function as a system.

 
Two desert bighorn sheep look to the right.
Animals

Learn about the variety of animals

yellow cryptanth flowers at sunset over canyons
Plants

See the diverse plants of the canyons

ranger with white glove points at fossil for children
Fossils

Learn about paleontology in the monument

enormous red-orange rock towers in morning light
Geology

Explore the rock formations

red sandstone cliff topped in fluffy white snow
Weather & Climate

Get to know the monument at any time of year

a bee and butterflies sit on fluffy pink flowers
Ecosystems

Learn about living soil crust, potholes, seeps and springs, and more

Photo of a tree killed by fire
Fire

Interagency information about fires in the area, fire restrictions and more.

person in blue shirt and brown pants kneels over a creek
Research

Review some of the scientific research happening at the monument

Last updated: February 3, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1750 Rim Rock Drive
Fruita, CO 81521

Phone:

970 858-2800

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