Hiking On the Monument: Coke Ovens Trail Awaits You

When the weather in Western Colorado finally gets nice - and STAYS nice - you just can't help but get out and enjoy the majestic wonder that surrounds the Grand Valley. I took advantage of a nice morning on Saturday to do some semi-serious hiking with my brother on the Colorado National Monument. We decided on the Coke Ovens trail which takes you down to the base of the canyon. Most people have seen the Coke Ovens from above, but fewer have seen the view from below. Of course, what goes down, must come up.

We started by taking the .3 of mile trail to the railed over look that takes you to the edge of the Coke Ovens and a great chance to see these unusual rock formations up close. We then wind back to near the starting point and begin the downward trek.

The trail is well-groomed, and often times you will find nicely formed rock steps that offer solid footing. Other parts of the trail are well-trodden, making for a comfortable walk. Of course, it's not all downhill, as there are occasional segments that level out, which ends up being real nice when you are on the way back up the trail.

Along the way, you will notice an array of lizards scurrying across the trail. Some are very colorful, while others are not, and some- or maybe it was the same one - are missing their tail.

The only way to fully  appreciate the massiveness of the Monument's canyon walls is to see them from the lower perspective as they tower above you. "Wow" is repeated often.

You might run across a handful of other hikers passing by on their way up or down. Their ages vary from young to old.

It all seems so pleasant, but then the time comes when  you must head back up. Remember, what goes down must come up. The trail is listed as moderately difficult, and frequent stops for rest and water are necessary. Still, to reach the top from the point we stopped was only about an hour.

Looking out over the trail we just traversed gave us a great appreciation for what we had just accomplished, and the chance to see the Monument from a different perspective.

There are many hiking trails on the Monument from short to long, and from easy to difficult. Whichever you choose, take your time and enjoy nature. And, of course, take plenty of water - you will be glad  you did.