The Geologic Story of Colorado National Monument: Revised EditionLohman, Stanley William
Science
The Geologic Story of Colorado National Monument: Revised Edition
Lohman, Stanley William
Colorado National Monument (Colo.); Geology -- Colorado -- Colorado National Monument
Many people driving through the Grand Valley for the first time are
unaware of the Monument’s existence unless they happen to see it on a
roadmap or see road signs pointing toward it, but unfortunately the
signs are unevenly and poorly distributed. People entering Grand
Junction from the east on U.S. 6 and 24 or from the southeast on U.S. 50
are apt to see one or more of the signs—particularly when crossing Grand
Avenue on First or Fifth Streets. If they are heading westward and can
devote at least half a day, they may drive to the East Entrance, follow
Rim Rock Drive for 22 miles northwestward through the Monument, stop at
some or most of the scenic overlooks and the Visitor Center, leave via
the West Entrance, and proceed northwestward on U.S. 6 and 50 or better
yet on I-70. However, as will be described below, longer stops are much
more rewarding. Those driving eastward on I-70 may see the sign at the
Fruita interchange pointing southward toward the Monument—and may take
the above described quickie trip in reverse. Those heading northwestward
on I-70, however, may not be aware of the Monument until they see the
sign at the Fruita interchange; then, they may not have or take time to
double back southeastward through the Monument. If they do drive
southeastward through the Monument, however, they can return to Fruita
following a very scenic northwesterly route through The Redlands on
Broadway (Colo. Highway 340) and South Broadway, or they may take a
paved shortcut from near the East Entrance to South Broadway via South
Camp Road (p. 118). Drinking water and sanitary restrooms are available
in the headquarters area in the campgrounds and picnic grounds and
Visitor Center, and in the Devils Kitchen Picnic Area. Food is not
available in the Monument, so those planning to remain all day should
bring lunches.
I have conducted many groups through the Monument, always choosing to
travel northwestward from Grand Junction through The Redlands, just
northeast of the Monument, to the West Entrance, then returning
southeastward through the Monument.[33] On most days, taking the trip in
these directions affords good lighting for photographing most of the
scenic features. This and other routes are described in the next section
and are plainly labeled so that the visitor may start with any trip he
or she chooses. Regardless of how long you stay or which routes you
follow, it is advisable to be well supplied with color film.
Some of the view points and overlooks have displays or signs to help
interpret the scenic features, and more of these aids are added from
time to time.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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