Place

Black Ridge Trail (Colorado National Monument)

white sandstone trail and rocks framed by green desert forests
Black Ridge Trail

NPS Photo / N Scarborough

Quick Facts
Location:
1) Saddlehorn Visitor Center, 2) CCC Trail, 3) Upper Liberty Cap TH
  • Location: Three access points:
    • (1) across from the Saddlehorn Visitor Center in the north
    • (2) accessed by the CCC Trail 3.8 miles (6.1 km) east from the visitor center - trailhead on the right
    • (3) at 6.4 miles (10.3 km) east from the visitor center - trailhead on the left; you can also access Upper Liberty Cap Trail from this trailhead.
  • Mileage: 5.5 one way (8.8 km)
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Elevation: 5,790 to 6,730 feet (1765 to 2051 meters)
  • Average time: 3 hours
  • Usage: Hiking and horseback riding.
  • Description: Highest trail in the park with far-reaching views west to Utah canyonlands, east to Grand Valley, and south to the San Juan Mountains. Follows up-and-down terrain of Black Ridge. Trail crosses into McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area (Bureau of Land Management lands).

Colorado National Monument

Last updated: April 5, 2024