Rattle Snake Canyon

Total Miles 9.6
Technical Rating
1 Easy
Best Time Summer, Spring
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

Fairly easy trail, the majority of the trail is dirt. There is one section of the trail that is gravel but then turns back into dirt. The trail is on the backside of the Colorado National Monument. During the trail, you will encounter some ruts caused by vehicles when the trail has been wet. The ruts are deep and would not recommend driving through the ruts unless you have a high clearance vehicle. The ruts do have an alternate route, so you will not encounter any issues. Be aware that you will encounter wildlife out on the trail and other explorers, so use caution when going around corners that you can not see around. The trail in itself is beautiful, it would be a perfect quick off-road adventure with the family. The trail is 11 miles one way. At the end of the trail, there are hiking trails, bicycle trails, and horse trails in and around the canyon. The longest hiking trail is 14 miles long, so if you are going hiking, bring food, water, first aid kit. This is a remote trail so plan accordingly, in the event you do require a rescue, it could take awhile to get to you. There is phone service out there with AT&T and Verizon. There is no water or restroom services so be prepared.

Photos of Rattle Snake Canyon

Difficulty

No difficult terrain. Any 4x4 or AWD vehicle can make it down the trail. In the event it has rained, the trail could be more difficult.

Technical Rating

1

Status Reports

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Stephane B
Dec 12, 2025
Open
A few snowy spots, but definitely doable in a stock 4x4 truck.
Christian Kelly
Jul 27, 2025
Open
Overall good condition, about what you’d expect from the descriptions. Saw only one other vehicle. Great views, peaceful area.
David Boies
Sep 28, 2024
Open
Some erosion causing larger rocks to be sticking out. Stock height 4x4 or larger. Easy trail, gets fun towards the end.
Katie A.
Oct 14, 2023
Open
Aaron Beier
May 27, 2023
Open
Inka Spatafora
May 07, 2023
Open

Rattle Snake Canyon Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Rattle Snake Canyon Map

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