Rattlesnake Canyon, Natural canyon in Mesa County, Colorado, United States.
Rattlesnake Canyon is a canyon in Mesa County featuring nine natural stone arches scattered across red sandstone cliffs and desert terrain. The arches rise from a remote landscape shaped by wind and water over millions of years.
The canyon sits within McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, which was created to protect Colorado's geological landscape. This protected status ensures the canyon's natural character is maintained over time.
The Bureau of Land Management maintains this area as part of Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness, preserving its natural state for future generations.
Two main access routes exist: a 15-mile (24 km) round-trip hike from Pollock Bench Trailhead or a high-clearance vehicle via Black Ridge Road to Upper Trailhead. Either way requires preparation for remote desert conditions and long exposure to sun and heat.
This location holds the second-largest concentration of natural stone arches in the United States, with Cedar Tree Arch standing out for its exceptional size. The arch is one of the most visually striking structures visitors encounter in the canyon.
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