Rim Rock Drive (Colorado National Monument)

Family stopped along Rim Rock Drive taking in the views.

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 (Colorado National Monument)

Map highlighting in red the historic Rim Rock Drive in Colorado National Monument, constructed between 1912 and 1950, winding 23 miles through many switchbacks from the north (west) entrance near the city of Fruita and the south (east) entrance near the city of Grand Junction.

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 final 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 views of the magnificent geologic formations of the monument. In addition to the scenic views, an 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 and overlooks were an integral part of this scenic roadway, permitting motorists to rest 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 above is from an area approximately 3 miles from the Visitor Center.