Ute Canyon View Trail

About

The Ute Canyon View Trail is a moderate hiking route located in Grand Junction, Colorado, on the Western Slope. The trail begins at Rim Rock Drive within Colorado National Monument and trends west to east, descending from the plateau into a narrow canyon. The route follows a primitive path down to a streambed that contains seasonal water and pools, bordered by cottonwoods and willows. Natural arches and canyon walls are visible features of the landscape. The typical duration for this hike is about 2 hours, with an elevation of 6,463 feet. The trail is open year-round but offers optimal conditions for fall hiking from September through November, when foliage changes and weather remains mild. Parking is available at the trailhead, and pets are permitted on the trail. While some sources describe the full 11.3-mile out-and-back Ute Canyon Trail as challenging with an average completion time of 5 hours and 20 minutes, the Ute Canyon View Trail is categorized as moderate. Horseback riding is permitted along the boundary of the monument to the base of the escarpment.