Facts About Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument is situated near the city of Grand Junction in Colorado. The place is a semi-desert land located high on the Colorado Plateau. The Monument houses an array of wildlife including pinyon pines, juniper trees, ravens, jays, Desert Bighorn Sheep and coyotes. Moreover, Rattlesnakes are widely found on the Monument. The drive along the plateau provides spectacular view of the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-topped mountain in the world. Colorado National Monument provides ample trails for hiking but it should not be attempted alone. For some more interesting and fun facts about Colorado National Monument, read on.

Interesting Facts about Colorado National Monument

* The Colorado National Monument was established on May 24, 1911.

* The area, where Colorado National Monument is established was initially explored by John Otto in early 20th century.

* The Monument comprises of many hiking trails, with varying lengths and difficulties to suit all tastes.

* The activities that can be enjoyed at the Monument include hiking trails, horseback riding, road biking and scenic drives.

* Its main attraction is Monument Canyon, which runs across the width of the park and includes rock formations such as Independence Monument, the Kissing Couple and Coke Ovens.

* The monument spreads over an area of 20,500 acres (32 square miles).

* The canyons were single-handedly explored by John Otto, who built many miles of trails through the area.

* The main canyons of the Monument are No Thoroughfare Canyon, Red Canyon, Ute Canyon and Monument Canyon.

* The Independence Monument is yet another fascinating structure, which is an isolated 450 foot tower of sandstone at the junction of two canyons.

* The Colorado National Monument is governed by Colorado National Monument Association (CNMA), a non-profit organization, in association with the US National Park Service.