Rattlesnake Canyon Arches
Rattlesnake Canyon Arches is home to over 35 natural sandstone arches, making it the second-largest concentration of natural arches in the world.
Located within Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness, this remote landscape is one of the three contrasting and unique geographical landscapes that make up Grand Junction's Nature's Trifecta alongside Colorado National Monument and Grand Mesa. Towering sandstone formations, rugged canyon scenery and uncrowded trails create a one-of-a-kind hiking experience.
Getting There: Trailhead Options and Access
There are two primary ways to reach the Rattlesnake Canyon Arches. Pollock Bench Trailhead offers access entirely on foot, while the Upper Trailhead shortens the hike but requires a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Pollock Bench Trailhead
Pollock Bench Trailhead provides access to the arches through a strenuous 15.5-mile round-trip hike. From Grand Junction, take Horsethief Canyon Road (aka Kingsview Road) to the trailhead.
Follow Pollock Bench Trail (P1), staying right at trail junctions approximately 1.6, 1.8 and 2 miles from the trailhead. Beyond the final junction, expect a bit of scrambling, steep terrain and several short cliff sections.
At mile 3, take the right fork and continue west. Around mile 6, the route joins the Upper Trailhead route at Rattlesnake Arches Trailhead. Continue straight to see all of the arches from the bottom.
Upper Trailhead via Glade Park
The Upper Trailhead route is the most direct way to reach the arches but requires a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle.
From Colorado National Monument's east entrance, follow Rim Rock Drive to 16½ Road. Turn left, then right onto Black Ridge Road and continue to the junction where Upper Access Road branches left and Lower Access Road branches right.
Weather permitting, Upper Black Ridge Road is typically open April 15 through August 14, while Lower Black Ridge Road is typically open August 15 through February 14. Both roads are seasonally closed from February 15 through April 14.
After the roads merge, the final two miles are the roughest section, and many visitors choose to hike or bike this portion.
From the trailhead, follow the Upper Trail for views of Cedar Tree Arch and other formations, or take the Lower Trail into Rattlesnake Canyon for closer views of the arches from below.
Plan More Outdoor Time in Grand Junction
Rattlesnake Canyon Arches are just one part of Grand Junction's diverse landscape. While you're here, paddle or float the Colorado River; explore Colorado National Monument, known as the mini-Grand Canyon; and discover the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world with over 300 lakes.
Check out even more outdoor recreation opportunities and scenic areas around Grand Junction. Then use our Visitor Guide to start planning your next adventure.
