Canyon Rim Trail

Colorado National Monument, Colorado

The Canyon Rim Trail, a 1.1 mile roundtrip path skirting the edge of Monument and Wedding Canyon, provides unparalleled views of Colorado National Monument’s red-rock monoliths including, Praying Hands, Pipe Organ, Kissing Couple, and Independence Monument.

Beginning from the back patio of the Visitor Center, descend some stairs to locate the official trail sign—located adjacent to the trailhead, you will find a fenced overlook with views of Wedding Canyon. After taking in the views, continue following the Canyon Rim Trail for more spectacular views of the brilliantly colored canyon walls and free-standing rock formations—the trail winds through a pinyon-juniper woodland situated on the sandstone rim before dead-ending at the car-accessible Bookcliff Overlook.

Spend a few minutes enjoying the view from the overlook before returning the way you came or continuing on along the Window Rock Trail for a 1.5-mile loop—a highly recommended excursion.