Colorado Road Trip 2025

Morning Hikes in Colorado National Monument

We kicked off the day with a series of short hikes that showcased the monument’s breathtaking geology and expansive canyon views:

• Canyon Rim Trail – A perfect introduction to the park’s dramatic cliffs.

• Window Rock Trail – A short walk to a stunning natural window overlooking the canyon.

• Alcove Trail – A peaceful path with unique rock formations and quiet alcoves.

• Otto’s Trail – Named after John Otto, the monument’s founding advocate, this trail offers one of the best views of Independence Monument.

Scenic Drive Along Rim Rock Drive

After hiking, we took our time cruising along Rim Rock Drive, a 23-mile scenic route that winds through the heart of the monument. Every curve revealed new vistas—towering monoliths, deep canyons, and distant mesas.

Towards the end of the drive, we were lucky enough to come upon a herd of grazing bighorn sheep, calmly navigating the rocky terrain just off the roadside. It was a quiet, majestic moment that reminded us of the wild beauty that thrives in these rugged landscapes.

Eastbound on I-70: Beauty in Motion

Leaving the monument, we headed east on Interstate 70, often called one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in America. The road climbs into the Rockies, passing through dramatic canyons, tunnels, and alpine forests.

As we neared Dillon, the sky treated us to a spectacular show: a full moon rising over the Rocky Mountains, casting a silver glow on the peaks and following us all the way to Georgetown, where we’ll be staying for the next two nights.