Monument Canyon
Grand Junction, CO
Monument Canyon
The Monument Canyon Trail is one of many trails that were built in the early 1900s by John Otto, a humble, soft-spoken, some would say eccentric man who once lived in what is now Colorado National Monument. Otto was a recluse who preferred to live alone, often seeming to enjoy the company of his horse more than any human being. Yet in spite of his quaint lifestyle his activism and his passion for the land eventually brought him widespread fame and recognition. Today John Otto is fondly remembered as the founder of Colorado National Monument, and we should be eternally grateful for what he gave us. Had it not been for Otto’s efforts it is doubtful that the ruggedly beautiful Colorado National Monument would still retain the unspoiled natural grandeur it possessed at the turn of the century.
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Directions to: Monument Canyon
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | Grand Junction |
| Length | 5.7 mi |
| Elevation Gain | 10 ft |
| Skill Level | The trail is well marked and well maintained. |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Season | Spring, summer, fall. The trail is very hot in the summer and there is no water, so be sure to carry plenty. The roads are open throughout the year, but the upper part of the trail is frequently covered with snow during the winter months. |
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