Colorado National Monument’s rise in visitation and 2024 events

Timber Schuman
·1 min read

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — Steep canyon walls, magnificent oranges, and unique wildlife make up the Colorado National Monument we are so fortunate to have right in our backyard.

Public affairs specialist Kait Thomas tells Western Slope Now the park is on track to reach new records after dropping dramatically in visitation between 2019 and 2020, but 2024 is on track to reach half a million visitors.

That increase in people could mean crowded parking lots, so Kait tells Western Slope Now to arrive a little earlier to ensure a spot.

To keep it a smooth ride as you traverse the park in the future, some road work will set visitors back about 15 minutes starting April 1 as they re-seal the pavement.

The big horn sheep count you may remember from Western Slope Now’s story in January will be in May.

The next 2024 milestone…the opening of the amphitheater! Construction crews are finishing up the trail, and then it should open in June.

And some of the biggest Colorado National Monument events will be in the fall, like Plein Air and Tour of the Moon.

Remember to treat the landscape and wildlife with respect, to ensure future generations will get to experience these looming canyons and serene desert views all the same.

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