About
Length5 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyModerate
Typical time5 hr
TrailheadLower Monument Canyon Trailhead
ParkingParking lot and trailhead accessed outside of main entrances to the Monument, along Hwy 340 (Broadway)
SurfaceDirt
Best seasonIn spring and summer, you will often find lots of wildflowers on these trails. Some people choose to backpack and stay overnight in the canyons for excellent views of the night sky.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityThis area is not considered accessible, due to uneven terrain, steepness, and lack of paved parking surfaces. This parking lot tends to fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
What you'll see 🌄 Big views

Monument-Wedding CanyonsLoop Location: From the west (Fruita) entrance of the Monument, turn right onto Highway 340 (going east); after 2.1 miles (3.4 km) turn right just beyond mile marker #5 onto a dirt road that appears to be a driveway; go 0.1 mile (0.2 km) to the trailhead. Maps candirect you to Lower Monument Canyon Trailhead. Mileage: ~5 miles (8.05 km) loop, +3.5 miles (5.63 km) one way up Monument Canyon from the meeting point with Wedding Canyon undeveloped trail Difficulty Level: Moderate to steep Elevation: 4,700 to 6,140 feet (1433 to 1871 meters) from lower trailhead to upper trailhead Average time: 4-6 hours Usage: Hiking and horsebackriding permitted along the lower 5 miles. Hiking only above 5 miles on Monument Canyon Trail. Description (from lower trailhead): Shortly after beginning the trail, choose to go clockwise or counterclockwise around this loop. Starting towards the left fork, you enter Monument Canyon first. If you choose the right fork, you'll be starting in Wedding Canyon on an undeveloped trail. At the far end of the loop, you'll be walking beneath Independence Monument. If you choose to go farther into the canyon along Monument Canyon Trail, you'll get to walk below many of the park's major rock sculptures, including Kissing Coupleand the Coke Ovens. Check out a photo gallery of this hike.

Tips
Pets are not allowed on any trail in the Monument. Do not leave pets in a car - even with the windows down, it gets too hot. Service animals are welcome in any building and on any trail.
Location

Lower Monument Canyon Trailhead

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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