Motorist Safety - Motorists will be sharing the spectacular Rim Rock Drive with bicyclists. Read Important Regulations Here.

Tunnels
Be aware that there are three tunnels on Rim Rock Drive.  There are two tunnels on the west side and one on the east side of the park.  The clearance above the lanes of traffic ranges from a low point of 11’5” near the edge of the curb to a maximum of 16’ 1” above the centerline of the road.  Lengths:  the east tunnel has a length of 530 feet.  The lower west tunnel has a length of 236 feet, while the upper west tunnel has a length of 182 feet.  Please keep your vehicle lights and/or bicycle lights on while traveling through the tunnels.

Services

Upon arrival, stop by the park visitor center for current information on everything from road conditions to hiking trails, camping, and ranger-led programs.  Rangers and volunteers are available to answer questions and provide information regarding all aspects of safely visiting Colorado National Monument.

The Colorado National Monument Association operates a bookstore in the park visitor center.  Water, sunscreen, and hats are available along with a wide selection of books, maps and gift items.  The store offers something for everyone, from the youngest to the most experienced visitor.

Other services are readily available in the adjacent communities of Grand Junction and Fruita.  Visit the Grand Junction Visitor and Convention Bureau and the City Of Fruita for more information.

Pets

Pets are permitted in Colorado National Monument; however they are NOT permitted on trails or in the backcountry. Pets may accompany visitors in the campground, but must be leashed at all times.  Pets can be walked on a leash along Rim Rock Drive and in parking lots.  Pets should not be left unattended in vehicles, the back of pickup trucks or other open vehicles.  Pet etiquette dictates always cleaning up after your pet and disposing of waste in trash receptacles.

Adjacent Bureau of Land Management lands do allow pets on trails and in the backcountry. Contact them directly for details and specific locations.

The summer heat can be deadly for pets. Car temperatures rise quickly in the sun, even on cool days. Your pet can easily die of heat exhaustion. We recommend you not leave pets in the car at all when temperatures are above 65 degrees, even with the windows cracked.

Accessibility
Accessible restrooms are located at the visitor center, Saddlehorn campground, and Devils Kitchen Picnic Area.  Two accessible campsites area located in the campground.  The Devils Kitchen Picnic Area and visitor center picnic area are also accessible.  Book Cliffs View, Independence Monument and Cold Shivers Point are accessible overlooks along Rim Rock Drive.

Hearing Impaired
For visitors with hearing impairments, headphones are available for use while watching the two videos in the visitor center auditorium.  A variety of publications may be obtained at the visitor center.  Wayside exhibits with illustrations and text on natural and cultural features are situated throughout the park and in the visitor center.

Alcohol Policy
The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all areas of the Colorado National Monument, except for the following designated areas and times:   

• Within the Saddlehorn Campground area.
• The Saddlehorn picnic area during established hours for recreational use.
• The Devils Kitchen Picnic area during established hours for recreational use.

Gnats

Gnats can be a concern from mid-May through mid-July.  Bring bug spray!