You don’t have to be much of an outdoors person to enjoy Browns Canyon National Monument. Browns Canyon has only been a national monument for a couple years, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less worthy of your time or attention.
When planning your trip, you might be excited about all the different things you can do. But you should also keep things realistic, especially if you’re new to backpacking. Fortunately, there are plenty of people and services to help.
For example, you might consider the Jeep tours, which take you around the state and through areas such as Browns Canyon. If you need a break or if you’re traveling with children, older persons or people with limited mobility, this option comes highly recommended.
There are also a number of companies that book tours where you can raft down the rapids of the Arkansas River, which is responsible for the canyon! You’ll find a company that offers rafting experiences for beginners. Several of these companies provide other activities, too. If you have enough time, you could also visit nearby hot springs, rock climb, or go horseback riding, several of the other services that the company offers.
Of course, you’ll probably want to go backpacking in at Browns Canyon National Monument, and there are plenty of options. The main trailhead is by the Ruby Mountain Recreation Site; although, there are other trailheads in the park. You can start with the Turret Trail, a shorter trip to the river and back with plenty of gorgeous views! For a more intrepid backpacker, there are two 11.5-mile trails to choose from or a variety of trail lengths in between.
You’ll enjoy the way the light changes as the sun rises and sets over Browns Canyon National Monument. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to view wildlife when you’re in the park. Pictures are gorgeous, but seeing it in person is something else entirely! If you’re short on time, check out the Five Points’ observation deck, which you can access from the highway, to view the canyon and wildlife without having to hike.
Featured Image from Raisa Nastukova/Unsplash
