The Monument Base Area

The Monument Base Area used to be home to just a handful of routes that either climbed up dirty large huecos or were somewhat sketchy routes that were used to access higher quality rock on headwalls above. Times have changed with a large quantity of high quality moderate to hard routes having gone up recently. The area is the largest chunk of rock in the Monument and is most recognizable due to the lower area being littered with huge huecos. Beware of pebbles and loose rock in the area and wear a helmet.

Location

Cross the main entrance bridge and turn right (east) at the base of the Misery Ridge Trail. Hike along the river, which is at your right. Shortly after passing under a large old ponderosa pine tree the trail bends due east. The Monument Base Area will be off to your left (north). You'll recognize the area based on the tall spires and hueco filled lower portion of the walls. Look for faint trails that head over to the area and avoid cutting through areas that don't have a trail. Be sure to check for the latest closures of the area due to falcon nesting.

Routes

Images

Area Map

View a large version of the map.