Trails in Colorado National Monument
Hikes here range from a short walk to a long canyon day. Lengths below are one way, so double them for an out-and-back. There is no water on the trails, summer temperatures can pass 100 °F (37.8 °C), and the best hikes start early. Hiking in the Monument is a good fit for spring and autumn.
Trails are for walkers only. Bikes stay on the roads, and dogs are not allowed, not even carried. If you would rather have a guide, see the Monument tours.
Trail lengths compared
One-way distances.
| Trail | One way | Out and back | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devils Kitchen | 0.75 mile (1.2 km) | 1.5 miles (2.4 km) | Moderate |
| Serpents Trail | 1.9 miles (3 km) | 3.8 miles (about 6 km) | Steep and moderate |
| Monument Canyon | 6 miles (9.7 km) | Plan the return | Joins two trailheads, plan the return or a pickup |
| Ute Canyon | 7 miles (11.3 km) | Plan the return | Steep, primitive and not maintained |
For most visitors, Devils Kitchen or the Serpents Trail is the right choice. The two canyon routes are for experienced hikers with a full day.
Hiking and guided trips near the Monument
Guided walks and Monument trips, with live prices and availability.
Monument Canyon and Ute Canyon
The long routes.
The Monument Canyon route is 6 miles and links two trailheads, so it is not an automatic loop. Plan how you will get back. Ute Canyon is 7 miles, steep and primitive, and it is not a simple walk. Repair and stabilization work on the lower 2.5 miles of the Monument Canyon Trail, up to Wedding Canyon and Independence Monument, was planned from mid-May 2026, with weekday work hours and short delays. Check the current trail status before you start.
Devils Kitchen hike and Serpents Trail
The two short walks.
Devils Kitchen
A moderate walk of 0.75 mile one way, about 1.5 miles round trip. It suits a short outing.
Serpents Trail
The Serpents Trail is 1.9 miles one way, about 3.8 miles round trip, and steep in places.
With children or in heat, Devils Kitchen is plenty. The Serpents Trail needs more breaks and more water because of the climb. Plan the return for both, since the one-way distance is only half the outing. If a trail turns out too long, the viewpoints along Rim Rock Drive make a good fallback for photos.
Heat, water and flash floods
The rules that matter most.
Water and heat
Carry at least 1 gallon (about 3.8 l) per person per day. The July normal high is 34.7 °C (94.5 °F), and a normal year has 7.8 days of 100 °F (37.8 °C) or more. Start early and bring extra.
Edges and pools
Stay at least 2 meters from drop-offs. Do not enter the seasonal canyon pools, because sunscreen harms them.
Flash floods
These are most likely from July to September, but possible all year. If one threatens, move to higher ground at once.
Wildlife
Do not feed or crowd animals. Keep two bus lengths from large animals and 50 feet (about 15 m) from small mammals and reptiles.
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry. They may go on paved roads and in developed camping and picnic areas on a leash of 6 feet or less, and never alone in a car.
For fees and hours, see the Monument page. Other routes are on hiking around Grand Junction.
Hiking in the Monument: questions
What is the easiest hike?
Devils Kitchen, 0.75 mile one way and moderate.
Is there water on the trails?
No. Carry at least 1 gallon per person per day.
Can I bike the trails?
No. Bikes and e-bikes are allowed on roads only.
Can I bring my dog?
Not on trails, even carried in a pack or stroller. Assistance dogs are covered by separate rules.
When is the best season?
Spring and autumn. Summer is hot, and flash floods are most likely from July to September.