Rattlesnake Canyon - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There are many things to do in the canyon, including hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, and camping. The canyon is also home to various wildlife, including rattlesnakes, lizards, birds, and small mammals. In addition to exploring the canyon, visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area.

The canyon was carved by the Colorado River and is surrounded by cliffs that rise to 1,000 feet. The first people to settle in the area were the Ute Indians. They lived in the canyon for centuries before European settlers arrived in the 1800s. The Utes were driven out of the area by the settlers, who began ranching and farming in the canyon. Rattlesnake Canyon was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1976. It is also part of the Colorado National Monument, established in 1911. 

The best time to visit Rattlesnake Canyon is in the spring or fall. In the spring, the wildflowers bloom, and the temperatures moderate. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit, as the leaves change colour and the crowds thin out. 

1. Stay on the trails - With its cliffs and loose rock, Rattlesnake Canyon is a dangerous place to wander off the beaten path. Stick to the trails, and it will be safe.
2. Watch for snakes: As its name suggests, Rattlesnake Canyon is home to a number of these potentially dangerous reptiles. Keep an eye out. The best way to avoid being bitten by a rattlesnake is to stay on the trail and avoid areas where tall grass or rocks provide hiding places for the snakes. 
3. Bring plenty of water - It can get pretty hot in Rattlesnake Canyon, so ensure people bring enough water to keep themselves hydrated.
4.  Do not hike alone. It is always safer to hike with at least one other person.
5. The best time to visit Rattlesnake Canyon is spring or fall when the weather is cooler. Avoid hiking in the summer when temperatures reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Be aware that Rattlesnake Canyon is a remote area with no cell phone service.

1. The canyon is named for the abundance of rattlesnakes that can be found there.
2. Rattlesnake Canyon is known for its abundance of fossils, including petrified wood and dinosaur bones. 
3. The area was once home to the Ute people, who used the canyon for hunting and gathering.
4. In the early 20th century, homesteaders settled in the canyon, and a few old cabins remain from that time period.
5. The canyon has been featured in many films and television shows.
6. The canyon features a variety of rock formations, including hoodoos and fins.

Visitors cand spend multiple days hiking through the Canyon. It is highly recomended to visit the Canyon multiple times, hiking through different trails rather than trying to complete all the trails in one go.

To reach Rattlesnake Canyon, Mesa County, Colorado, take Highway 141 south from Grand Junction for approximately 33 miles. Then take a right turn onto D Road. After about 1.3 miles, take another right turn onto 27 Road. There is a sign for the preserve entrance after another mile. The canyon is located within the Colorado River Valley National Conservation Area.

The admission fee for Rattlesnake Canyon is $6 per person, which helps cover the cost of maintaining the trails and providing basic amenities for hikers.

Rattlesnake Canyon is open from 8 AM to 5 PM.