Monument, Colorado, is a town that beckons you outside. With its sweeping mountain views, serene forests, and abundant recreational opportunities, it’s the kind of place where every day can feel like a mini adventure. Whether you’re a hiker, a biker, a paddler, or someone who simply enjoys soaking in nature’s beauty, Monument offers endless ways to explore the outdoors.
If you’re wondering how to make the most of a full day outside in this scenic mountain town, The Fletcher Team & Associates has crafted the perfect guide to help you experience the best of Monument’s natural charm. From early-morning trails to sunset views, here’s how to enjoy a perfect day outdoors in Monument, Colorado.
Start Your Morning with a Sunrise Hike
There’s no better way to begin your day in Monument than by watching the sun rise over the Rampart Range. The soft morning light illuminating the mountains creates a breathtaking start to the day.
Two popular sunrise-friendly trails include:
Mount Herman Trail
This trail offers an invigorating challenge and incredible summit views. The hike is steep in sections, but the reward is panoramic scenery that stretches across Monument, the Front Range, and the rolling foothills below. If you’re an early riser who loves a good climb, Mount Herman is an unforgettable way to begin your day.
Monument Rock Trail
For a gentler start, Monument Rock Trail is a local favorite. This route takes you to the iconic white sandstone formation that gives the town its name. It's perfect for a peaceful sunrise walk with beautiful photo opportunities and an inspiring sense of calm.
Whichever trail you choose, morning is the perfect time to enjoy cooler temperatures, quiet paths, and the serene beauty of the landscape waking up around you.
Enjoy Breakfast with a View
After your morning adventure, stop by one of Monument’s local cafés to refuel. Many offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy fresh air while sipping a warm coffee or indulging in a hearty breakfast.
Local favorites include:
- Coffee shops with mountain views
- Cozy bakeries offering fresh pastries
- Breakfast spots serving warm, hearty dishes perfect after a hike
Relax and savor your meal before heading off to the next part of your outdoor day.
Explore Monument Lake for Midday Fun
Monument Lake is a centerpiece of outdoor recreation in the area. Surrounded by tree-lined shores and expansive views, it provides the perfect mid-morning or midday activity for all ages and interests.
Popular activities on Monument Lake include:
Paddleboarding
The calm, glassy waters of the lake make paddleboarding an enjoyable and relaxing activity. Whether you're new to paddleboarding or an experienced enthusiast, gliding across the surface offers a peaceful way to connect with nature.
Kayaking or Canoeing
For those who prefer a seated water adventure, kayaking and canoeing are excellent options. The lake is just the right size for a leisurely paddle.
Fishing
Monument Lake is stocked with trout and other species, making it a great spot to drop a line. Bring your gear and enjoy a quiet, scenic fishing session along the shore.
If you prefer to stay on land, the walking paths around the lake offer lovely views and plenty of places to pause and appreciate the tranquility.
Take a Scenic Bike Ride Along the Santa Fe Trail
After spending time near the water, hop onto the Santa Fe Trail for an afternoon of biking. This well-maintained trail stretches for miles and connects Monument to surrounding areas, offering a mix of paved and soft-surface routes suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.
Why locals love the Santa Fe Trail:
- Smooth, scenic riding through forests and open spaces
- Family-friendly stretches perfect for leisurely rides
- Access to multiple trailheads throughout Monument
- Stunning views of the mountains and Colorado’s wide-open skies
This trail is ideal for breaking up your day with something active and invigorating. Bring a camera, because you’ll want to capture the scenery along the way.
Enjoy Lunch or a Picnic Surrounded by Nature
With Monument’s abundant open spaces and parks, finding a place to enjoy lunch outdoors is easy. After your ride, you can choose from a number of beautiful spots to enjoy a relaxing midday meal.
Great lunch options include:
A picnic at Limbach Park
This centrally located park is a wonderful place to relax under the shade of the trees while enjoying a packed lunch.
Picnicking by the water
Bring a blanket and enjoy lunch by Monument Lake, where calming water views offer a scenic backdrop.
Local eateries with outdoor seating
If packing a picnic isn’t your style, Monument’s charming downtown features restaurants and cafes with patios perfect for an al fresco meal.
Take your time and recharge before heading into the afternoon’s outdoor fun.
Head to Pike National Forest for an Afternoon Adventure
Monument sits right at the foothills of the vast Pike National Forest, providing endless opportunities for exploration. In the afternoon, consider venturing into the forest for more outdoor adventures.
Some great ways to enjoy the forest include:
Trail hiking
Pike National Forest offers trails for every hiking level, from simple nature walks to more advanced routes with stunning views.
Wildlife watching
Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other local wildlife. The forest’s diverse ecosystem makes it a great place for nature lovers.
Photography
With towering pines, dramatic rock formations, and sweeping valley views, this area is a photographer’s dream.
A trip into the forest allows you to immerse yourself deeply in the natural beauty that makes Monument such a special place.
Enjoy Outdoor Shopping and Exploring in Downtown Monument
After a day of hiking, biking, and relaxing, take a slower-paced stroll through Historic Downtown Monument in the late afternoon. The downtown area features boutique shops, artisan stores, and galleries filled with handmade goods, outdoor gear, home décor, and other unique finds.
Outdoor-friendly activities downtown include:
- Strolling the tree-lined sidewalks
- Browsing boutiques for Colorado-made products
- Stopping for ice cream or a refreshing drink outdoors
- Enjoying live music or special events on select days
Exploring downtown connects you to the community and offers a fun, relaxing way to transition into the evening.
Catch a Stunning Monument Sunset
Monument is known for its extraordinary sunsets. The sky often lights up with shades of gold, violet, pink, and fiery orange behind the mountains, creating the perfect ending to your outdoor day.
Top sunset spots include:
- Monument Lake
- The top of Mount Herman Road
- Local parks with mountain-facing views
- Scenic overlooks along hiking trails
Bring a blanket or a camp chair and settle in to watch one of nature’s most beautiful shows.
Enjoy Dinner Outdoors to Finish the Day
If you’re not ready to head home just yet, enjoy dinner at one of Monument’s restaurants with outdoor dining. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal, a casual bite, or something sweet, you can find a spot to enjoy your evening under the Colorado sky.
Make Every Day an Adventure in Monument
A day spent outdoors in Monument reminds you why this town is such a treasure for nature lovers. From early-morning hiking to peaceful lake time, scenic bike rides, and sunset moments, Monument offers countless ways to get outside and enjoy life to the fullest.
If you’re thinking about making Monument your home and embracing this outdoor lifestyle every day, The Fletcher Team & Associates is here to help.
