Window Rock Trail

Colorado National Monument, Colorado

The Window Rock Trail, a 0.5 mile roundtrip path accessed from within the Saddlehorn Campground near the Bookcliff Overlook, leads to a spectacular view of Window Rock—a natural opening in one of the many red-rock sandstone formations found tucked away in the western wall of Monument Canyon.

At times the Window Rock Trail, and also the Canyon Rim Trail, is not well defined but it is usually not difficult to figure out where to go—just try your best to stay on the well-worn paths to avoid damaging the living cryptobiotic crust, the dark, lumpy soil that plays an important part in erosion control.

Up canyon, the famous monoliths of Colorado National Monument can be viewed including, Praying Hands, Pipe Organ, Kissing Couple, and Independence Monument—postcard views abound in late afternoon when the sun is low and the red walls of the canyon are saturated with color.

The trail ends at a fenced overlook at the north end of Monument Canyon where a natural window creates an opening in the top of the cliff. Spend a few minutes enjoying the view from the overlook before returning the way you came or continuing on along the Canyon Rim Trail for a 1.5-mile loop—a highly recommended excursion. You can also return to the Visitor Center, just a short distance away, by hiking along the roadside.