Sun Temple overview
Sun Temple
There are many good reasons to visit the Sun Temple. For one, the temple offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the monument's other rock formations. Visitors can also explore the area around the temple on foot, and there are several hiking trails that lead to and from the site.
One unique thing about the Sun Temple is its history. The temple was named by explorer John Otto, who was the first person to climb the formation in 1906. Otto was a passionate advocate for the creation of the Colorado National Monument, and his efforts are credited with helping to establish the park.
Another interesting feature of the Sun Temple is its geology. The temple is made up of layers of sandstone, shale, and limestone, which were formed over millions of years as the area was uplifted and eroded. The temple's distinctive shape is the result of differential erosion, which is when different types of rock erode at different rates.
Overall, the Sun Temple is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Colorado National Monument. Its unique shape and stunning views make it a memorable destination, and its historical and geological significance only add to its appeal.
Plan your visit down to the hour
Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day temperature & precipitation
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
Plan a longer trip
The closest parks, campgrounds, fishing spots, and other landmarks so a quick visit can grow into a full day.
Parks
Campgrounds
Fishing spots
Responsible visitation & Leave No Trace
- Know before you go
- Check the operator's site (BLM, NPS, state agency, or private owner) for access rules, permits, and seasonal closures before driving out.
- Stay on trail
- Many points of interest sit in fragile ecosystems. Stick to marked paths to protect vegetation and prevent erosion.
- Respect wildlife
- Observe from a distance, never feed wildlife, and give nesting birds and denning mammals plenty of space.
- Pack it in, pack it out
- Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you. Remote sites often have no trash service.
- Leave what you find
- Don't take rocks, plants, fossils, or artifacts. Federal law protects cultural and natural resources on public land.
Set push alerts in the Snoflo app
Save Sun Temple as a favorite, set a weather threshold (precipitation, freezing temperatures), and the iOS app will push the moment conditions cross.
About Sun Temple
What is Sun Temple?
A point of interest in Colorado tracked by Snoflo -- typically a scenic landmark, named summit, monument, or viewpoint.
How fresh is the weather data?
The hourly forecast updates throughout the day from NOAA / yr.no public feeds.
When is the best time to visit?
Use the 15-day temperature & precipitation outlook on this page to pick a window with comfortable temperatures and low precipitation.
How do I get there?
Tap Directions in the hero above for Google Maps driving directions, or Open in map to center the Snoflo interactive map on the spot.
Can I get alerts when conditions change?
Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this POI, set a threshold (temperature, precipitation), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses.
Other points of interest near here
Snoflo-tracked landmarks within driving distance of Sun Temple.