Colorado National Monument Visitor Center via Rim Rock Drive

The route is approximately 36.6 kilometers (22.7 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete on a racebike. This duration can vary based on your fitness level, how often you stop for photos, and the specific conditions on Rim Rock Drive.

This route is considered moderate and can be quite challenging, especially due to significant elevation changes and steep grades. While starting from the Colorado National Monument Visitor Center allows you to ride across the top, bypassing some of the steepest climbs near the entrances, it still requires good fitness. The road is narrow with limited shoulder space, so caution is essential.

Along this route, you'll experience breathtaking scenery often called the 'Tour of the Moon.' Key highlights include the View of Colorado National Monument and the View of Balanced Rock. You'll also pass by dramatic red rock plateaus, steep canyons, and majestic stone pillars, with opportunities to stop at numerous overlooks like Coke Ovens Overlook and Independence Monument.

The best times to cycle Rim Rock Drive are typically spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot, and winters may bring snow or ice, making cycling difficult or unsafe. Always check the weather forecast before you go.

Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Colorado National Monument. This fee covers entry for 7 consecutive days. You can find detailed information on current fees and passes on the official NPS website for Colorado National Monument.

You can park at the Colorado National Monument Visitor Center. Starting your ride from here allows you to access Rim Rock Drive directly and ride across the top of the Monument.

No, pets are generally not allowed on trails or overlooks within Colorado National Monument, including along Rim Rock Drive, with the exception of paved roads and established campgrounds. They must always be on a leash no longer than six feet. Please check the official NPS website for the most current pet regulations.

Given the challenging nature and arid environment, it's crucial to bring plenty of water and snacks. A water refilling station is available at the Colorado National Monument Visitor Center. You'll also need a helmet, and because of dark tunnels, your bicycle must be equipped with lights visible from at least 500 feet to the front (white light) and 200 feet from the rear (red light) for safe passage.

While primarily a road cycling route on Rim Rock Drive, this komoot tour does briefly intersect with sections of other paths. Specifically, it covers portions of the ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 6, Fenceline, Bench Trail, Black Ridge Trail, Alcove Nature Trail, Canyon Rim Trail, and Liberty Cap Trail.

Yes, safety is paramount. The road is narrow and lacks a shoulder for most of its length, so single-file riding and vigilance are necessary. Be aware of steep drop-offs in some sections. As mentioned, lights are required for the tunnels. While traffic is generally light and drivers respectful, always be alert. Also, watch out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep, coyotes, and lizards.

While there are no cafes or pubs directly on the route within the Monument itself, the nearby towns of Grand Junction and Fruita offer a variety of dining options for cyclists before or after their ride. The Colorado National Monument Visitor Center has a water refilling station.