Photography

bald man in winter coat holds camera pointed towards snowy canyons — Photographers will find opportunities here year-round.
NPS Photo

night sky with comet above dark canyon cliffs — The night skies above the monument offer great astrophotography opportunities.
Copyright Rick Ahern

The monument is a welcoming place for photographers. There are many options for photography, including landscapes, animals, plants, canyons, and sunrise/sunset. Night sky photographers might enjoy the Saddlehorn Picnic Area for stargazing, or driving out to some of the overlooks for differnet vantage points.

Depending on your situation, you might need a permit for still photography in the monument.

Many photographers like Grand View or Independence Monument View for sunrises. Independence Monument View, Distant View, and Book Cliff View are great for sunsets. You can find these viewpoints on the park map and this site will give you the Sunrise and Sunset Times for Grand Junction, CO.

Check out our Photo Galleries for inspiration.