In Junction You Can Have Lunch And Hike All Within An Hour

Today was spectacular. Sunny and 79. As I was making my sandwich for lunch, it hit me, why eat parked in my recliner? Why not get out and enjoy the day and get some exercise to boot? The Devils Kitchen picnic shelter and trailhead inside The Colorado Monument was the perfect place.

Just on the edge of town, The Monument is easy to access from downtown. I had also just upgraded my weekly Monument pass into an annual. It's the best $25 I've spent. So you know, you can now purchase all passes and permits online. I'd suggest everyone that lives, or works, in downtown Junction to own one. It was just a 10-minute drive from work to Devils Kitchen.

I probably should have done it the other way around but I was hungry, so lunch was first on the list.  After a few minutes to digest it was on to the Devil's Kitchen trail. It's a short 3/4 a mile and listed as "moderate" in the park brochure. It takes about an hour so not too taxing for a long lunch break.

You never know who you'll meet along the way. I must have spotted a half dozen or so lizards. Birds and Hopi chipmunks darted around. I still haven't spotted a Big Horn Sheep but I hope to some day.

Not a bad way to kill a lunch hour...ish. I know I don't have to tell you locals how special this place is. However, I do know we sometimes take for granted the things that are right outside our door. Try a sandwich and a hike for lunch one day this week. You'll be glad you did. The Monument rocks!