Trail Description

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For those who are short on time, the Coke Ovens Overlook Trail is an easy 1-mile roundtrip hike providing spectacular views of Monument Canyon. The trail begins at Monument Canyon's Upper Trailhead and descends immediately along the Monument Canyon Trail.

At the .2 miles, bear right at the split and onto the Coke Ovens Overlook Trail. The next .3 miles rides the rim of Monument Canyon on its way to the Coke Ovens Overlook. A colorful wall of Entrada sandstone borders your right side, while a 1000' drop borders your left.

The Coke Ovens are gigantic sandstone domes formed over millions of years by erosive forces including wind, water and frost. The domes are made of Wingate Sandstone, a softer more easily erodable form of sandstone than the darker caps on top of the domes made of the more resistant Kayenta Sandstone.

The overlook itself is a fenced in area on top of the Coke Ovens which is a great place to bring lunch, relax and enjoy the incredible view.

*For a wider view of the Coke Ovens, take the Monument Canyon Trail down to the canyon floor. Better photographs of the Coke Ovens can be taken from this angle.

Worth Noting

• Due to its proximity to the Visitor's Center, this is a very popular trail. Be prepared to share the overlook area with other hikers.



• Pets are not permitted on any trail in Colorado National Monument. Never leave pets in your unattended vehicle, as high temperatures can kill pets within minutes. Violators of pet regulations are subject to very severe fines.



• Mountain bikes are not allowed on any trails in Colorado National Monument.

Fishing Information

There is no fishing on the Coke Ovens Overlook Trail.

Rules and Regulations

• Please abide by all current regulations, which are updated on the National Park Service Website.

Directions to Trailhead

The Coke Ovens Overlook Trail is located at Monument Canyon's Upper Trailhead, 8.1 miles from the park's west entrance on Rim Rock Road.

East Entrance from Denver Grand Junction: Take Highway I-70 to Grand Junction, and take Exit 31 (Horizon Drive). Follow signs through Grand Junction to the east entrance.

West Entrance from Denver to Fruita: Take Highway I-70 to Exit 19 (Fruita) and go south on Highway 340 to the west entrance, which is approximately four miles from Fruita.

East Entrance From Utah to Grand Junction: Take Highway I-70 to Grand Junction, and take Exit 31 (Horizon Drive). Follow signs through Grand Junction to the east entrance.

West Entrance from Utah to Fruita: Take Highway I-70 to Exit 19 (Fruita) and go south on Highway 340 to the west entrance, which is approximately four miles from Fruita.

Contact Information

Colorado National Monument
Fruita, CO 81521-0001

By Phone
Visitor Information
970-858-3617

By Fax
970-858-0372