Monument Canyon Trailhead

This is a challenging, but very rewarding trail. It has rocks, elevation gains, and no shade, but the views are so worth it. Don't be discouraged by the walk behind private properties at the start; once you get into the canyon, it is quite a sight. Even had a chance to meet some of the local wildlife :)

Took the loop, which would recommend taking the Wedding Canyon section on the way out. It was cooler and more shaded mid morning. Can be busy during the weekends. Often see desert sheep.

About 5 miles round trip to follow the Monument Canyon Trail to Independence Rock, a little less than two hours. On the way in was a decent climb it seemed. The first part of the hike runs along behind some private residences but then it turns toward the Monument and it's quite scenic. We came across some bighorn sheep.

Great hike. Good incline and what goes up must come down. Some areas where the trail was quite thin and coming down could be challenging for those with knee issues I would imagine. Beautiful. Varied scenery. Did the loop, about 5 miles. Would do it again for sure.

Beautiful hike! 2.5 miles from Trailhead to the base of Independence Rock. Lovely views on the way up. Even spotted several mountain sheep with their young ones. I love this country!

Awesome fall morning hike. Beautiful weather, beautiful scenery.

Went at sunset in early October to do a short hike up Sarlacc trail.

Just check the pictures. Bring your best camera.

Amazing hike. Not very difficult. Medium amount of people, but they are generally pretty nice! Loved the views!

Round trip of 12 miles. Vigorous climb up and down from Rim Road. Moderate climb from lower trailhead. Every step is rewarded with great views. Pass Independence, Kissing Couple and Coke Ovens.

This is a great hike. Five miles total.
We went monument and back on the wedding unimproved trail. I would suggest the same clockwise route as the unimproved trail would be more difficult doing first. It has alot of steep scrambles with loose sand / gravel.
If you are uncomfortable with goat trail style of a hike stick to monument out and back.
Happy hiking.

Very nice hiking. Of the two starting trails, if you go right, you'll have a large uphill section followed by the majority of your hike being downhill. If you go left, it's reversed (obviously). I recommend going right.

Excellent evening hike in late winter. A real slice of Colorado landscape. My favorite trail in the Grand Junction area.

Gorgeous canyon! Saw a herd of bighorn sheep! A bit muddy in spots but worth the mess.

Great trail system and free access to the Colorado National Monument Trails. I usually go up Wedding Canyon (right) which is steeper, unimproved, and more often shady and then down Monument Canyon (left) which is mostly slick rock and crushed gravel trail as it's easier on my knees and I can go faster. Monument Canyon especially can get a bit busy on the beautiful days in the Spring and Fall but it's worth it. You can also take this trail system all the way up to Rimrock Drive if you want a longer hike with a steep finale.

This trail was gorgeous! We went to Rim Rock, over to Coke Ovens and back. We took Wedding Canyon Trail at the split to the beginning of Monument Canyon Trail. That was so much fun! 14+ miles total.
This is a must do Trail.
We saw a Big Horn Sheep...20 feet away and a female further on the trail. So cool!!!

Loved this hike. I would absolutely do it again.

Always one of my favorite hikes. And accessible nearly all year. A must visit for the outdoor lover.

Fantastic trail. Well maintained in spite on the steepness. Spectacular views.

We arrived before sunrise and started the hike around the island (monument canyon then wedding canyon) and it was stunning with sunlight lighting up the valley as it rose.

On recreation.gov there's a suggested day itinerary and this is the first part. Thoroughly recommend.

Great trail! Amazing views. Head clockwise and come down the Wedding Loop.