Last updated: October 7, 2022
Place
Rim Rock Drive (Colorado National Monument)
C.A Richmond Collection
Quick Facts
Location:
23 mile road from Fruita to Grand Junction through Colorado National Monument
Significance:
Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps
Designation:
National Historic District
Rim Rock Drive is a 23 mile paved, two-lane road through Colorado National Monument. This road was primarily constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and 1940s. The east side was completed by the Works Progress Administration during the 1950s. This construction allowed Serpent's Trail to become a walking/hiking trail.
The road climbs from a valley elevation of 4,690 feet to the highest point on the mesa at 6,640 feet. It employs a series of switchbacks on both ends, with two short curved tunnels on the west side and one longer tunnel on the east side. While initially a dirt road, it was paved between 1947 and 1951.
The purpose of Rim Rock Drive was to allow travelers scenic vistas and views of the magnificent geologic formations of the monument. In addition to the scenic views a eagle-eyed visitor will notice rock retaining walls, guard walls, drainage tunnels and drop inlets. These features contribute to the historic nature of the road.
Turnouts or overlooks were an intergral part of this scenic roadway permitting motorists to apuse while viewing the geologic formations and natural vistas along Rim Rock Drive. Many of these turnouts feature informational signs explaining the significance of the area.
The image is from an area about approximate 3 miles from the Visitor Center.
The road climbs from a valley elevation of 4,690 feet to the highest point on the mesa at 6,640 feet. It employs a series of switchbacks on both ends, with two short curved tunnels on the west side and one longer tunnel on the east side. While initially a dirt road, it was paved between 1947 and 1951.
The purpose of Rim Rock Drive was to allow travelers scenic vistas and views of the magnificent geologic formations of the monument. In addition to the scenic views a eagle-eyed visitor will notice rock retaining walls, guard walls, drainage tunnels and drop inlets. These features contribute to the historic nature of the road.
Turnouts or overlooks were an intergral part of this scenic roadway permitting motorists to apuse while viewing the geologic formations and natural vistas along Rim Rock Drive. Many of these turnouts feature informational signs explaining the significance of the area.
The image is from an area about approximate 3 miles from the Visitor Center.