For those seeking a longer day hike in Colorado National Monument, the Black Ridge Trail is a great option. Much of the Black Ridge Trail follows the route of the Old Fruita Dugway, a pioneer road built in the early 1880's. The Dugway was constructed to both drive cattle and connect the towns of Fruita and Glade Park. The trail takes you up and out of the canyon while skirting the base of Black Ridge. Great views are available of the Bookcliffs, Grand Valley, Grand Mesa and the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area.

The trail begins with an ascent up a packed dirt fire road, adjacent to a slickrock bench

The trail quickly levels out into a dense juniper forest

The trail crests across a bare, wide meadow

The Colorful McInnis Canyons protected area is clearly visible from the Black Ridge Trail

Badland formations emerge from grassy hillsides

Healthy juniper provide a wonderful aroma while on the trail