Place

Canyon Rim Trail (Colorado National Monument)

red-orange sandstone spires tower over forested canyons in early morning sunlight
Canyon Rim Trail

NPS Photo / N Scarborough

Quick Facts
Location:
Saddlehorn Visitor Center

Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead

  • Location: Starts behind the Saddlehorn Visitor Center and ends at Book Cliffs View. One may also start at Book Cliffs View and end at the Saddlehorn Visitor Center.
  • Mileage: 0.5 one way (0.8 km)
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Elevation: 5,626 feet (1715 meters)
  • Average time: 1/2 hour
  • Usage: Hiking only. Horses prohibited.
  • Description: Level trail following the cliff edge above colorful Wedding Canyon. The trail does have two pairs of switchbacks and railings when the trail is adjacent to the canyon edge. Parents should keep a close eye on children. Outstanding views make this a favorite for landscape and wildlife photographers. Download the Canyon Rim and Window Rock Trail brochure.
  • History: This trail was built with the Visitor Center and Bookcliff Shelter between 1963 and 1965 to connect the the two places.Canyon Rim Trail is unchanged from its original design and provides an outdoor experience for visitors thus fulfilling one of the goals of the Mission 66 visitor center design.

Colorado National Monument

Tags

Last updated: April 5, 2024