Upper Liberty Cap Trail

About

The Upper Liberty Cap Trail is a moderate 5.1-mile hiking route located in Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction, Western Slope. It begins at an elevation of 4,593 feet and typically takes about three hours to complete. The trailhead offers parking and is accessible year-round, though winter conditions may require preparation. Hikers can access the trail from two points: the Wildwood Trailhead on the east side or the upper trailhead off Rimrock Drive. The route travels across Monument Mesa, featuring an abandoned jeep road that winds through pinyon-juniper forest and sagebrush flats. The trail ascends steeply for the first two miles from the valley floor before leveling out on the mesa. Views include Independence Rock and the broader Colorado National Monument landscape. The trail surface is generally gentle and smooth, with some steeper sections of bentonite clay that can become muddy when wet. Wildlife sightings include rattlesnakes, rabbits, quail, and coyotes. An unmarked junction about 3.5 miles from the upper parking lot leads to Otto's Bathtub. Horseback riding is permitted along the upper five miles of the trail.