We came upon Chimney Rocks National Monument by chance as we drove from Great Sand Dunes National Park to Mesa Verde. The kids were getting antsy, we saw that sign, so we decided to stop. The cost to visit is $12 adult/$6 kid (my 4th grader was free with a 4th grade pass but in this case it didn’t get us all in free). The parking lot at the top can only fit regular sized cars, so we did have to unhitch at the parking lot at the bottom and leave our RV there.
It’s a 2.5 mile steep drive to the top but nothing a regular car can’t handle. At the top there are two loops, the lower loop that is paved and an easy walk (mesa village trail- .3 miles) and the upper loop that is more of a steep, rocky climb (great house pueblo trail- 1 mile out and back). There were rangers at both areas for questions and information. You will see different structures built from the Ancient Pueblo people such as pit houses and a kiva. In addition you will see the chimney rocks, and great views of Colorado and New Mexico.
We really enjoyed this pit stop on our drive and would reccomend to anyone looking for a stretch break!
Camping with the Kennedys 