Rim Rock Drive

A 23-mile scenic drive will lead you along the rim of a colorful panorama of deep, sheer-sided canyons, and high rock towers. Wayside exhibits at pullouts along the drive provide information about the natural and human history of the park. Allow 45 minutes of driving time, plus additional time for walking, photography, or stopping at pullouts.

For those who would like to explore the monument by foot, there are fourteen hiking trails and routes that range from short and relatively flat to long and steep.  There is also a self-guided nature trail near the visitor center.

Bicycling the Rim Rock Drive is also a popular (and challenging) pastime. It has challenged many of the world’s strongest riders, but yields to the most casual of recreational cyclists. Whether you decide to ride the entire circuit or only a part of it will depend on how fit you are.

For the grand loop, start wherever you wish and go either way around the circuit that includes the entire Rim Rock Drive and other rural/suburban roads. The aggregate climb for a complete trip is 2300 vertical feet, due primarily to the steeper grades just inside either entrance. Allow three hours.  Cyclists are required to ride single file only.  Please use bicycle lights in the tunnels.

For an easier 10-mile ride, start at the visitor center and ride to Artists Point and return. Off-road mountain biking is not permitted in the monument, but several adjoining areas are ideal for it.