Trail Run Project Logo

A terrific out-and-back route to some of the park's most interesting geologic features.


Your Rating: Rating Rating Rating Rating Rating      Clear Rating
Your Difficulty:
Your Favorites: Add To-Do · Your List
Zoom in to see details
Map Key

1.0

Miles

1.7

KM

89%

Runnable

6,126' 1,867 m

High

5,970' 1,820 m

Low

156' 48 m

Up

156' 48 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

28%

Max Grade (16°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Views · Wildlife

Overview

Journey along the Monument Canyon and Coke Ovens Trails for an up-close and personal look at some of the most fantastical geologic phenomena in the desert southwest: the Coke Ovens Monoliths.

Description

From the Upper Monument Canyon/CCC Trail Parking Area, descend along the switchbacks of the Monument Canyon Trail for a short while before meeting the Coke Ovens Trail at a well-signed junction. Turn right onto the Coke Ovens Trail and continue along the canyon rim, soaking up the invigorating scent of nearby sage.

Upon reaching the trail's end at a fenced overlook, peer over the edge in awe of the striking feat of time and weathering before you: the Coke Ovens.

The features are giant sandstone towers, though they have an odd shape. Instead of the long, spindly spires that are common in other areas, these features appear to be a bit more squat, and many think that they resemble an oven.

Occasionally, rangers will be out near the overlook, so be sure to ask them any questions you may have regarding the geology, flora, or fauna around you. Their expertise in the area will surely enrich your experience here!

After taking in the geologic majesty before you, say goodbye to the Coke Ovens and return on the trail from which you came back to the parking area.

Contacts

Shared By:

Zander Göpfert

Trail Ratings

  3.8 from 5 votes

#4223

Overall
  3.8 from 5 votes
5 Star
20%
4 Star
40%
3 Star
40%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#554

in Colorado

#4,223

Overall
4 Views Last Month
1,108 Since Jul 14, 2016
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

25%
25%
50%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

Coke Ovens from the north.
Jul 14, 2016 near Redlands, CO
Coke Ovens Trail.
Feb 22, 2016 near Redlands, CO
Looking down Monument Canyon. with permission from Hobbes7714 Photo Credit: Andrew Wahr  Link: https://twitter.com/WahrAndrew
Jul 14, 2016 near Redlands, CO

0 Comments

Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

none

Join the Community

Create your FREE account today!
Already have an account? Login to close this notice.

Get Started.