Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness: A Red Rock Sanctuary
Explore the dramatic red rock canyons, natural arches, and serene wilderness of western Colorado's Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness.
The Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness, near Fruita, Colorado, is a stunning landscape of red rock canyons, mesas, and natural arches. It offers a serene escape for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and dramatic scenery.
A brief summary to Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness (Colorado)
- Fruita, Colorado, 81521, US
- +1970-244-3000
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months, as the area is arid and water sources are limited.
- A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended for accessing the Rattlesnake Arches and Mee Canyon trailheads.
- Check seasonal road closures before heading out, particularly if you plan to visit Rattlesnake Arches or Mee Canyon.
- Be aware of wildlife, including mountain lions and desert bighorn sheep, and take necessary precautions.
- There are few established trails so plan your route carefully, and be prepared for challenging hiking conditions.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Grand Junction, take I-70 west to the Fruita exit (#19). Turn left and cross back over I-70, proceeding 1.5 miles to the Kings View Estates subdivision. This leads to trailheads for Devils Canyon, Pollock Bench, and the Fruita Paleontological Area. These are easily accessible year-round. There are no fees to access the wilderness area itself. Parking is available at the trailheads.
-
Driving (4x4)
For Rattlesnake Arches and Mee Canyon Trails: From Grand Junction, take CO 340 through Colorado National Monument towards Glade Park. Follow DS Road west for 6 miles past the Glade Park store to S 11 1/2 Road, then turn right. Follow it for a couple of miles to B South Road. Turn left (west) and follow it for 8-10 miles to the Knowles Canyon Trailhead. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is required for the last 1.5 miles. These roads are seasonally opened to motorized travel. The Upper Road is open from April 15 - August 15, with the Lower Road being open from August 15 - February 15. Both roads are closed to motorized travel from February 15 - April 15.
Discover more about Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness (Colorado)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Saddlehorn Utility Area Historic District
16.6 km
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Independence Monument
17.9 km
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Colorado National Monument
21.5 km
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Mesa Mall
28.3 km
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Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que
28.6 km
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Old Kiln Historical Site
29.0 km
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Grand Junction Tours
30.2 km
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Base Camp Beer Works
30.9 km
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Kodiaxe
31.2 km
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Solve It Escape Games
31.2 km
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Moon Mountain Gems Rock & Crystal Shop
31.5 km
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Atomic Legacy Cabin
31.6 km
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The Goat and Clover Tavern
31.7 km
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The Feisty Pint
31.7 km
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The Rockslide Brew Pub
31.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Horsethief Canyon
9.5 km
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Ruby Canyon
12.2 km
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Fruita Canyon View
16.5 km
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Historic Trails View
16.6 km
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James M. Robb - Colorado River State Park
16.9 km
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Saddlehorn Campground
17.1 km
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Dinosaur Journey Museum
17.3 km
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Book Cliffs View
17.5 km
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Western Slope Vietnam Memorial
17.6 km
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Grand View
18.0 km
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Red Canyon Overlook
22.7 km
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Two Rivers Winery
23.2 km
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Studt's Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze
24.1 km
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Cold Shivers Point Overlook
25.2 km
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Devil's Kitchen Picnic Area
26.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Ocotillo Restaurant And Bar At Redlands Mesa
27.2 km
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Genghis Grill
29.1 km
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Noodles and Company
29.1 km
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Outlaw Cafe
29.4 km
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Ristorante Pantuso
30.0 km
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Chick-fil-A
30.0 km
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Handlebar Tap House
30.0 km
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The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Grand Junction, CO
30.5 km
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Warehouse25sixty-five Kitchen + Bar
30.6 km
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No Coast Sushi
31.1 km
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The Garden of Eat'n
31.1 km
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Thai Number 9
31.2 km
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Pufferbelly Station Restaurant
31.4 km
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Dream Cafe
31.6 km
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Bistro 317
31.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hartmann Farmhouse
25.8 km
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Canyon View Marketplace
28.1 km
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francesca's
28.4 km
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Runway Fashion Exchange
28.8 km
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Old Navy
29.3 km
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T.J. Maxx
29.4 km
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Rimrock Marketplace
30.1 km
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Encore Shoppe & Gallery
31.1 km
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Eclectic
31.1 km
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Rustic But Elegant Home Decor & DIY
31.2 km
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Fashion Junkie
31.3 km
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La Fleur by Livvy Natural Perfumes
31.6 km
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Pollux Clothing
31.7 km
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Rebel Treasures
31.7 km
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Klik Boutique
31.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
SoCo Social House
31.5 km
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Cruise Control Kitchen and Cellar
32.0 km
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Quincy Bar
32.1 km
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The Point
32.6 km
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Ale House
32.7 km
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Cruisers Bar
33.2 km
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Orchard Mesa Cruisers
33.2 km
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Wrigley Field
33.6 km
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The Brass Rail Tavern
34.5 km
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Scallywags Bar and Grill LLC
35.1 km
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River Grill Restaurant
60.9 km
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The Cowboy Grill
65.0 km
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Sandbar Lounge Moab
79.2 km
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The Alley Sports Pub and Grill
79.8 km
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Moab Garage Co.
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