Coal Oil Rim Cliff

Rimland of exposed coal seams and geological features

Ridge or scenic rim in western Colorado popular with local hikers and off-road visitors for mesa-top views and layered sedimentary rock formations.

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Oil well in Rangely, Colorado.JPG

Coal Oil Rim at a Glance#

Hours: Open 24 hours (public land)

Admission: Free (natural landmark on public land)

How to Get to Coal Oil Rim#

Located in western Colorado; nearest small towns provide services. Access often via county roads and forest service tracks - a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Use the coordinates 40.13164, -108.784 as a navigation point and check local road advisories before travel.

Tips for Visiting Coal Oil Rim#

  • Carry water and sunscreen; the Coal Oil Rim is high and exposed.
  • High-clearance vehicle recommended for approach roads in some areas; check local county road conditions.
  • Visit in late afternoon for the best shaping light on the rim and a clearer view of the valley below.

Best Time to Visit Coal Oil Rim#

Late spring through early fall offers the most reliable access and pleasant conditions.

Summer
Jun-Aug · 60-85°F (15-29°C)
Warm days and long evenings; good for scenic drives.
Fall
Sep-Nov · 35-65°F (2-18°C)
Crisp air and clearer skies; leaf color where aspen groves are present.
Spring
Apr-May · 30-60°F (-1-15°C)
Snow melt and wildflower emergence; roads may be muddy early season.

Weather & Climate near Coal Oil Rim#

Climate

Coal Oil Rim's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -14°C to 33°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.

Air Quality: AQI 19 Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
33°
Warmest Month
-14°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - -14° - 0° -10° 12 mm - - 1.6 m/s - -
February - -11° - 4° -6° 13 mm - - 1.9 m/s - -
March - -4° - 11° 1° 24 mm - - 2.7 m/s - -
April - 0° - 17° 6° 28 mm - - 3.3 m/s - -
May - 4° - 23° 14° 27 mm - - 3.2 m/s - -
June - 9° - 29° 19° 23 mm - - 3.1 m/s - -
July - 13° - 33° 23° 26 mm - - 2.7 m/s - -
August - 12° - 32° 22° 23 mm - - 2.5 m/s - -
September - 7° - 26° 17° 29 mm - - 2.5 m/s - -
October - 0° - 19° 9° 31 mm - - 2.2 m/s - -
November - -6° - 9° -1° 19 mm - - 2.0 m/s - -
December - -12° - 2° -8° 16 mm - - 1.7 m/s - -