Monument is a town located in El Paso County, Colorado. The town has a population of approximately 10,500 +/- people and is known for its scenic views, outdoor activities, and historic downtown area. Monument sits at an elevation of 6,974 feet above sea level, offering visitors and residents beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains.
The town is home to several parks and trails, including Monument Lake and the Santa Fe Trail, which is a popular hiking and biking destination. The town is also known for its annual summer concert series, which features a variety of musical genres and is held at Limbach Park.
In addition to its natural beauty and historic charm, Monument Co is a growing community with a strong economy and excellent schools. The town is a popular destination for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the town’s small-town feel and easy access to both Denver and Colorado Springs.
Since the town incorporates multiple nearby communities, Monument Colorado is also referred to as the Tri-Lakes region. The three lakes that make up Tri-Lakes include Lake Woodmoor, Forest Lakes, and Monument Lake.
Monument Colorado - Weather Forecast
The town is located in a mid latitude steppe (semi-arid climate) and offers residents over 300 days of sunshine on average. The Town of Monument is located on the Palmer Divide which separates north from south-flowing tributaries along the Front Range of Colorado. The Palmer Divide also has a direct influence over local weather patterns including snow accumulation between Douglas County and El Paso County. The elevation for the Palmer Divide (AKA Monument Hill) is over 7,350 feet.
Monument Colorado - History
Monument, Colorado, has a rich and fascinating history dating back thousands of years to the paleoindian era. Prior to European settlers, the area was inhabited by several Native American Tribes, including the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne.
Following the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, Monument was founded as a stop on the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad in 1879. The town, originally known as Henry’s Station, was named after Monument Rock. This vertical sandstone formation is located west of the town near the base of Mount Herman.
With the expansion of the Rio Grand Railroad the area became populated with cattle ranchers, potato farmers, and those working in the lumber, ice, and coal mining industries. Although the town is located next to the Santa Fe Trail, this is unfortunately not the original historic trail. The true Santa Fe Trail did cut through Colorado, but originally passed through Bents Old Fort located outside of La Junta Co.
Today, Monument is a thriving community that offers a high quality of life and a range of recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities.
Overall, the history of Monument, Colorado, is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who have lived and worked in the area for thousands of years.
Downtown Monument Colorado
The downtown area of Monument Colorado, located on the west side of I-25, offers visitors many leisure dining and shopping amenities including the Victorian Tea House, Gift Shop, Ice Cream Parlor, Folk Art Gallery, Distillery, Restaurants, and more…
On the east side of I-25, visitors can find modern commercial facilities including Walmart, Home Depot, Staples, Qdoba, King Soupers, Kohls, and much more.
Population of Monument Colorado
The Town of Monument Colorado is estimated to have a population of approximately 10,500 local residents. This includes residents living in Jackson Creek, Woodmoor, Tri-Lakes, Willow Springs Ranch, Forest lakes, Promontory Pointe, Red Rock Ranches, and Kings Deer.
Monument Co Wildlife
Monument, Colorado, is home to a variety of wildlife species due to its location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Here are some of the common wildlife species found in and around Monument:
- Mule Deer: Mule deer are common in the Monument area and can be seen grazing in open fields and near residential areas. (FYI – you will want to protect your trees and gardens)
- Black Bears: Black bears are occasionally spotted in the Monument area, particularly during the summer months. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions to prevent conflicts with bears, such as securing garbage cans and not leaving food outside.
- Mountain Lions: Mountain lions, also known as cougars, are occasionally spotted in the Monument area. They are generally shy and avoid humans, but residents are advised to take precautions to prevent conflicts with these large predators.
- Coyotes: Coyotes are common in the Monument area and can be seen roaming through neighborhoods and open spaces. They are generally not a threat to humans, but residents should be aware of their presence and take precautions to prevent conflicts with domesticated pets.
- Red Foxes: Red foxes are occasionally seen in the Monument area, particularly in the winter months. They are generally not a threat to humans and are often admired for their beauty.
- Birds: The Monument area is home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, golden eagles, hawks, owls, and songbirds.
- Rattlesnakes: The west side of I-25 is a common area to find Diamond Back Rattlesnakes. If you are hiking along the Santa Fe Trail or Mount Herman recreation area, be sure to keep an eye out as rattlesnakes like to sun themselves on the trails and roads.
- Elk: Over the past decade, the number of elk sightings around Monument Co have declined. As the human population in north El Paso County continues to grow, many native animal species have been pushed further out. Since the development of Forest Lakes, a local elk herd know as the Larkspur herd, now spends most of it’s time on the Air Force Academy.
Overall, the Town of Monument offers an opportunity to observe and appreciate a diverse range of wildlife species in their natural habitats. However, it is important to respect wildlife and take precautions to prevent conflicts and ensure the safety of both humans and animals.
Monument Colorado Zip Codes - 80132
Monument Colorado has two Zip Codes. 80132 is the primary zip code encompassing the majority of the Town of Monument. 80133 is the secondary zip code encompassing the northwest side of Monument and Palmer Lake Co.
Fun Things to Do in Monument Colorado
There is an abundance of fun things to do in and around the Town of Monument Colorado. From fishing and paddleboarding on Monument Lake to hiking and mountain biking nearby Mount Herman, there are numerous fun outdoor activities to experience.
