Go Fruita

Rattlesnake Arches is a journey worth planning for. The high desert demands respect, but for those who come prepared, this is one of the most unforgettable hikes near Fruita, tucked into a rugged corner of McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area.

This area is home to the second-largest collection of natural arches in the world outside Utah. You can reach them two ways: a challenging 15-mile round trip from Po***ck Bench, or a shorter 4-mile round trip from the upper trailhead (open seasonally and only accessible with high-clearance 4WD).

What you’ll find: wide-open mesas, red rock walls, and quiet sandstone canyons that feel completely off the grid. It’s remote, wild, and unforgettable. Perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and their sense of adventure.

Some hikes you remember for the views. This one stays with you because of how it feels to stand in a place so rarely seen.