A view from Grand Junction, looking up nearly 2000 feet toward Colorado National Monument, exhibits the powerful forces of the Colorado River. The relentless processes of erosion have sheared off the edges of the Uncompahgre Plateau and exposed the wondrous earthen hues seen in layers of sandstone, mudstone, limestone and siltstone. These wonderous multi-colored rock formations and four major canyons attract sightseers along this section of I-70 corridor in western Colorado.
   Red Canyon Creek, a tributary of the Colorado River, has sliced its way through the soft sedimentary rock, creating this jaw-dropping chasm. Red Canyon is just one of the spectacular vistas along the monument's 23 mile Rim Rock Drive. Although it's possible to drive the entire park road in an hour, 14 different hiking trails, area wildlife, and a half dozen scenic overlooks may keep visitors bust the entire day.

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