Colorado National Monument

Airstream Camping at Colorado National Monument

It is easy to overuse adjectives when describing the Colorado National Monument: Amazing, Dramatic, Beautiful, Stunning, Serene, Soulful, Sacred.  This unique place is a treat for the eyes and nourishment to the soul.  Red rock canyons transform in color as the sun journeys overhead casting shifting shadows and shapes on the canyon walls.   You can literally dangle your legs over the edge of a cliff while surveying a panorama filled with red spires and gigantic monoliths that almost glow in the sunset - all within a few minutes walk from the Saddlehorn Campground.

Red rock spires and gigantic monoliths fill the landscape

Dramatic Vistas spread out in every direction

The highlight for me was hiking through the canyons, dwarfed beneath the ancient rock formations that towered like skyscrapers over the landscape.  Starting at the canyon rim, I  descended past Creamsicle colored canyon walls and was soon standing at the base of beautiful rock spires.   I spent the entire day wandering amongst the towers of eroded red rock, capturing photos, and taking in the splendor of it all.



Yellow-headed Collared Lizard posed for his photograph

Popcorn clouds dot the sky

This region is high desert on the Colorado Plateau and receives less than 12 inches of precipitation each year.  Brightly colored cactus pepper the trailside, and I saw more lizards on this hike than I have seen in my entire life, including a beautiful turquoise and yellow collared lizard that seemed to enjoy posing for photographs.



My campsite at Saddlehorn

Vibrantly colored cactus flowers pepper the hiking trails

Even though the hike left my feet sore, and my legs tired, my soul was full.   Colorado National Monument has a feeling of spirituality to it.  It is hard to explain -  I don't worship rocks and animals, or even hug trees, but I sensed a strong spiritual connection in this place.  It felt so beautiful, peaceful, serene, and sacred.

Beautiful Erosion

Colorful sunsets

Cactus flowers mimic the colors of the sunset

More Photos HERE.

If you go:

Saddlehorn Campground is located just a short walk from the canyon's rim.  There are 80 first-come-first-serve sites nested among pinyon pines, junipers, and desert shrubs.  Although you will find lots of vegetation, be prepared for little shade, strong winds, and dry, desert-like conditions.   There are no electrical hookups or showers, but there are flush toilets and potable water available nearby.   Campsites are $20/night plus a $10 Monument entrance fee that's good for a week.   Views are outstanding and free.