Rattlesnake Arches
Discover Colorado's hidden gem: Rattlesnake Arches, boasting the nation's second-highest concentration of natural arches. An adventurer's paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers & perfect weather
Rattlesnake Arches
Best Time
Wildflowers & perfect weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Colorado's hidden gem: Rattlesnake Arches, boasting the nation's second-highest concentration of natural arches. An adventurer's paradise.
"It's worth it. We went in November when it is cooler."
🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed
Don't attempt the final miles without a 4WD, high-clearance vehicle.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Route finding can be tricky; use Gaia GPS or COTREX.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Arch
Main trail
The largest and most iconic arch, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective from above.
Arch Alley
Upper trail
A concentration of numerous smaller arches, creating a stunning natural gallery.
Petrified Sand Dunes
Trailside
Explore the colorful, layered rock formations and ancient sand dunes that tell a geological story.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
High Clearance Vehicle is Key
Plan Your Route & Pack Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed
Don't attempt the final miles without a 4WD, high-clearance vehicle. +1
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Route finding can be tricky; use Gaia GPS or COTREX.
💧 Pack Ample Water & Snacks
Minimal shade and no water sources on the trail.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Some scrambling and uneven terrain expected.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 High Clearance Vehicle Needed
Don't attempt the final miles without a 4WD, high-clearance vehicle. +1
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Route finding can be tricky; use Gaia GPS or COTREX.
💧 Pack Ample Water & Snacks
Minimal shade and no water sources on the trail.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Some scrambling and uneven terrain expected.
📸 Capture the Arches
Bring your camera for stunning desert landscapes and unique rock formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible landscape and the sheer number of arches at Rattlesnake Arches, calling it a must-do bucket list item. However, many highlight the challenging road access, emphasizing the need for a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Some also note the potential for route-finding and the lack of shade and water, advising thorough preparation.
"Incredible landscape, just kind of a rough trip. We first tried to hike in from the CO river, (14 miles RT) but ran out of daylight. Then made the drive and yes, the last 2 miles you need high clearance. It’s worth it. We went in November when I is cooler."
Lee Kleinman
"Great hike! Took the lower trail around. Amazing series of arches! The colors of petrified sand dunes and layered cliff walls were breathtaking! After we hiked to the end of the trail, we hiked thru the arch to reach the upper trail."
Lennie t
"We missed the parking lot. Google reroute us to private road, keep reroute us to other private road. As we were given up on the way out, we saw a big sign said “Parking”. went in to find out it is Rattlesnake Arch trail.
The road to the TH was the worst. Small and midsize SUV can’t make it. Only very high clearance, 4WD truck, jeep or SUV make it. We chose upper trail, if you stay on the middle trail, you probably missed out the arches. We kind of stay on the left side. Wow, discovered arches after arches. So many. I count, we saw 8 arches on the left side. We didn’t have time to explore the other side, due to lost of day light. Didn’t want to drive out in dark.
Benefit of upper trail is that We get to walk on top of the arches. Only encountered a small group of people and a man kind of lost. Next time I would explore lower trail. I was told on the right side, there is a very steep scary slope to get up and down between the upper and lower trail
One star off due to the horrible road"
KH C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most critical factor is having a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for the last 2 miles of the road from Glade Park. Standard SUVs or cars will likely not make it. Some visitors have reported being rerouted to private roads, so ensure you have reliable navigation. +1
No, the road to the upper trailhead is very rough and requires a vehicle with significant ground clearance and 4WD capability. Smaller SUVs and cars are not recommended.
Directions can be tricky. From Glade Park, follow signs for Rattlesnake Arches or Pollock Bench. Using a GPS app with offline maps is highly advised, as cell service can be spotty.
Yes, but this is a much longer 14-mile round trip hike and may require a high-clearance vehicle to reach the starting point.
Currently, there are no public shuttle services to the Rattlesnake Arches trailhead. Visitors must provide their own transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no fee to enter the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area or to hike the Rattlesnake Arches trail.
Permits are not required for day hiking or overnight backpacking at Rattlesnake Arches.
Rattlesnake Arches is open year-round during daylight hours. However, access can be limited by weather conditions, especially snow in winter.
Backcountry camping is permitted in designated areas within the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, but specific regulations should be checked beforehand.
No reservations are needed for accessing the Rattlesnake Arches trail. It's first-come, first-served.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The difficulty varies by route. Shorter hikes from the upper trailhead are moderate, while longer routes or those involving scrambling can be considered difficult. Elevation gain can be significant.
Hikes can range from a 2.5-5 mile round trip from the upper trailhead to a 15-mile out-and-back from Pollock Bench. Some visitors create loops.
Sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to the rocky terrain and potential for scrambling. Dress in layers, as desert temperatures can fluctuate.
Shade is very minimal on the Rattlesnake Arches trail. It's crucial to bring sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Trail running is possible, especially on the upper trails, though some sections are challenging. Biking is generally not recommended on the narrow, rocky trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors. Midday sun can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the arches and the expansive desert landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The tops of the arches offer unique perspectives, and the 'Arch Alley' area provides numerous compositions. The Grand Arch is a must-capture.
Drone usage is subject to Bureau of Land Management (BLM) regulations. Check current rules for McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area before flying.
The sheer number of arches, the colorful petrified sand dunes, and the vast desert vistas provide endless photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as shade is scarce. Consider bringing a carrier for younger children if attempting longer routes. The unique geological formations and the thrill of exploring natural arches can be very engaging for kids. Always supervise children closely, especially near drop-offs or on scrambling sections.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts & Adventurers
Once at the trailhead, the hiking options cater to various fitness levels. Trail runners can enjoy challenging routes, while hikers can explore the extensive network of trails, including opportunities for scrambling and route-finding. The sheer number of arches and the rugged desert landscape provide a rewarding experience for adventurers.
📸 Photographers
Aim for golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the most dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the scale of the arches and the surrounding landscape. Don't forget to experiment with different angles and compositions, perhaps even venturing onto some of the less-trafficked paths for a more secluded shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Rattlesnake Arches Trail System
For those seeking a more extensive adventure, the Pollock Bench trailhead provides access to longer, more challenging routes, including a 15-mile out-and-back option. Some reviewers suggest combining upper and lower trails to experience a wider variety of arches, though this may involve steep sections and scrambling. It's highly recommended to download offline maps from apps like Gaia GPS or COTREX, as cell service is unreliable in the area.
Be prepared for varied terrain, which can include sandy washes, slickrock, and rocky ascents. While some arches are easily visible from the main paths, exploring further can reveal hidden gems. Always be mindful of your surroundings and the potential for route-finding challenges.
The Geological Marvel of Rattlesnake Arches
The arches are formed when softer sandstone erodes faster than harder caprock, creating openings that gradually enlarge over time. The petrified sand dunes visible along the trails are remnants of ancient desert environments, offering a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. These layered formations tell a story of shifting landscapes and the powerful forces of nature.
Many of the arches are accessible by foot, allowing visitors to walk through or even on top of some formations. This direct interaction with the geology provides a unique and memorable experience, highlighting the fragility and beauty of these natural wonders.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit