Coke Ovens Trail

The trail features a combination of rock and dirt, generally offering a navigable surface without large step-overs or difficult rock scrambling. However, be prepared for a significant elevation change in the initial two-tenths of a mile, with grades reaching up to 20% in steepness. After this challenging start, the path mostly flattens out. The return journey includes a climb back out of the canyon. Some sections have exposed edges, so caution is advised.

The Coke Ovens Trail is approximately 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) round trip. While the National Park Service suggests about 30 minutes for a one-way hike, a jog could take around 13 minutes for the entire route, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views.

The trail is renowned for its outstanding views of the Colorado National Monument. As you descend into the canyon, the vistas become increasingly impressive. A key highlight is the Coke Ovens View, an overlook about half a mile from the road, offering a 180-degree panoramic view of rocky cliffs and canyon walls. The trail leads directly to the distinctive "Coke Ovens Monoliths," which are giant, squat sandstone towers resembling old charcoal kilns.

While the National Park Service classifies this trail as "Easy," some reviews describe it as the most difficult of the shorter trails in the Colorado National Monument due to its elevation changes. The initial 0.2 miles involve a steep climb or descent with grades up to 20%. If you're a beginner jogger, be prepared for this challenging section, but the rest of the trail is generally more forgiving.

The Coke Ovens Trail shares a starting point with the Monument Canyon Trail. Parking is available at the trailhead within the Colorado National Monument. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as parking can fill up.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on unpaved trails within the Colorado National Monument, including the Coke Ovens Trail. This is to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Service animals are an exception.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for jogging this trail, with milder temperatures. Summer can be very hot, making early morning or late afternoon visits preferable. Winter can bring snow and ice, which may make the steeper sections more challenging or hazardous.

Yes, the Coke Ovens Trail is located within the Colorado National Monument, which requires an entrance fee. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance station. Annual passes for national parks are also accepted. No additional permits are typically needed for day use of this specific trail.

Yes, the route for the Coke Ovens Trail also passes through sections of the ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 6 and the Monument Canyon Trail. It also briefly touches the CCC trail.

Along the trail, you'll encounter typical high desert flora such as Utah juniper, pinyon pine, and sage, contributing to an invigorating scent. While wildlife sightings can vary, keep an eye out for common desert animals like lizards, various bird species, and possibly bighorn sheep or deer, especially during quieter times of day.

The Coke Ovens Trail is an out-and-back route. You will follow the same path down to the Coke Ovens Monoliths and the overlook, and then return the same way, which involves a climb back out of the canyon.