This itinerary offers some flexibility based on your skill level and amount of time you want to devote to each activity. We recommend starting the day with a hike, as it's cooler in the mornings. Pack a lunch, as there are no food amenities within the Monument. At the end of the day, after the scenic drive, go for one last walk in the canyons.
Start outside the main entrances by heading straight to the Lower Monument Canyon Trailhead for a loop hike. See the canyons and monoliths from below with morning light. Then, enter the Monument from the West Entrance near the town of Fruita. Stop at Saddlehorn Visitor Center to watch the orientation film, learn from the exhibit hall, shop for souvenirs at the bookstore, talk with a ranger, and get your Junior Ranger booklets. Travel along historic Rim Rock Drive and stop at overlooks to learn about the various rock features. At the far end of the drive, you can stop near Devils Kitchen Picnic Area for another hike to stretch your legs before you leave the Monument.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
