Rock Climbing · Grand Junction, CO
Independence Chimney
Before you go
Live · nearest station Grand Junction, 2 miGood window today. Daylight to 8:16 pm.
Partly Sunny
Feels like 96°
Storm chance
2% afternoon
Wind
5 mph NW
UV index
7.7 high
Sun window
6:22 am to 8:16 pm
Gunnison River near Grand Junction is running 577 cfs, water 74°.
Distance
—
Elevation gain
4ft
High point
4,600ft
Season
Jan - Dec
About
Independence Chimney is a rock climbing route on Independence Monument, a 450-foot sandstone tower in Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction. The route ascends the southwest face, blending trad and aid climbing techniques. It is rated moderate, with specific grades including III, 5.8, and C1 for the chimney section. The climb is approximately 450 feet long and typically takes about 9 hours to complete. Access is via a parking lot off Highway 340, leading to a hike of roughly 2 miles to the base. The area is pet-friendly. A key practical detail is that the site is currently closed to climbing due to a nesting peregrine falcon monitored through 2025. Climbers should verify current access status before visiting.
Trail profile
Gain
4 ft
Avg grade
—
Steepest
—
High point
4,600 ft
Good to know
Parking at the trailhead
Dogs allowed on leash
Waypoints
Latest trail reportgood
Spring climbing conditions. Route may be wet after rainfall. Check weather forecast before climbing.
Reported Mar 3, 2025Verified
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