Among the Grand Canyon, the Bryce Canyon and the Arches National Park sits the Colorado National Monument. Located only 12 miles away from the Grand Junction you will have the ability to experience one of the many great wonders of the world.

The Colorado National Monument is apart of the Colorado Plateau with the sheer walled canyons, unusual rock formations, fossils of dinosaurs, towering monoliths and many remains of prehistoric Indian cultures. The land reflects the history and environment perfectly, especially with the colorful sandstone everywhere you look.

There are many things you can do here, especially hiking and camping. Throughout the summer time there is designated campfire programs and people are able to travel here all year long, 24 hours a day.

John Otto, a man who lived on and off of the monument for almost 30 years helped preserve the Colorado National Monument as much as he could and in 1911 it became official that it was now a national monument. He started camping out at the canyon back in 1906 and after 5 years it finally became a place that would never be touched or harmed.

The Colorado National Monument is something that you should take the time to see if you are traveling through or near Colorado. The beauty surrounding it and the many other great findings in the Colorado Plateau make it a great escape from the real world. Take a hike through the trails or plan a weekend away with the family, there is much to do while experiencing the Colorado National Monument.