105 Year Tradition Continues on Independence Monument

Every year, a group of dedicated individuals scales Independence Monument in the Colorado National Monument to raise the American Flag on the 4th of July.

After successfully ascending the 450 foot Independence Monument on July 8, 1911, John Otto raised an American flag to celebrate. Otto continued to scale the iconic tower every year creating one of the Grand Valley's time-honored traditions.

This year marked the 105th anniversary of Otto's tradition, as well as the 100th year of the National Parks Service.

Thanks to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, we get a glimpse into what it takes to scale Independence Monument.