Pollock Bench Trail in the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area near Grand Junction and Fruita, CO is a pleasant surprise as you hike into its wilder areas. Sensational scenic views of Flume Canyon, Devils Canyon, and the beautiful canyon walls of Pollock Canyon.

 

Pollock Trail Loop, Grand Junction Hikes

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BEGIN ON POLLOCK BENCH TRAIL

From the parking lot, we started on Pollock Bench Trail and after hiking about 1.6 miles we came to the connection for the Rattlesnake Arches, Pollock Canyon, and Flume Canyon trails. We took the P1 trail to continue our loop hike for Pollock Canyon.

 

Pollock Trail, Rattlesnake Arches, hikes near Grand Junction, Fruita hikes, McInnis Canyons, Black Ridge Canyons, family hikes,

 

The trail became a single track as we came to a spectacular section along the edge of the canyon’s rim which is pure scenic eye candy for miles.

Non-essentials but fun to have when hiking in Colorado’s wilderness areas “Binoculars“, Wildflower Identificaton, & “What’s that animal track?“.

 

 

Gentle hiking through juniper trees, pinon trees, and a sprinkling of periodic wildflowers. It’s early May and the high desert is alive with color, deep blue skies, and mild temperatures.

CLICK HERE > for a look at the practical gear that we love at Crazy About Colorado and have in our backpacks on every hike.

 

 

 

Pollock Trail, Rattlesnake Arches, hikes near Grand Junction, Fruita hikes, McInnis Canyons, Black Ridge Canyons, family hikes,

 

Views along the canyon rim can’t be beaten, they are incredible, however, there were a few areas where the trail is very close to the edge. I mention this because watching your step and your kids seem crucial along portions of the trail.

 

 

 

 

An occasional cactus bloom, vibrant and startling in color, took my breath away mingled in the surrounding harsh terrain.

 

 

Pollock Trail, Rattlesnake Arches, hikes near Grand Junction, Fruita hikes, McInnis Canyons, Black Ridge Canyons, family hikes,

 

BEGINNER TO AVID HIKERS WILL ENJOY THIS TRAIL

A beautiful day hike with unparalleled views and in springtime a refreshing start to summer! Lower altitude and a gentle trail make this hike perfect for beginner to avid hikers.

NOTE: There is no shade on this trail! Please have plenty of water, electrolytes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to keep safe from dehydration and sunburn, so common on any hike in Colorado’s wilderness. Have you heard of a hiking umbrella? A great way to prevent sun exposure.

TIDBITS
6.5-mile loop

Rated: easy/moderate

Restroom

Ample parking

Horse Trailer parking

Popular for hiking, horses & trail running

Nearest Town: Fruita, CO

Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness

McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area

LOCATED

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Grandstaff Trail, a hop over the Colorado State Line

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Drop a comment below for any questions. Share your adventures with me. I’d love to hear from you, HAPPY TRAILS…

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Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).