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Rifle Arch
4.6 ★★★★★ 62 Google reviews · Running trail in Rifle, Colorado · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Rifle Arch yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Rifle Arch
“Every time I make my way out here to Rifle, I have to do this beautiful hike!”
“Love this easy to follow trail with some hills no directions needed once you find the trail head outside of Rifle.”
Rifle Arch is very beautiful in the winter and summer. The trail is dog friendly. The trail is 2.8 miles to the arch and back to the parking area. There are some inclines, and it can be difficult in the snow and mud. Don't forget to pack plenty of sunscreen and water.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Rifle Arch Trail. A few basic things to note: It's just shy of 3 miles long round trip. The elevation at the parking lot is about 5,883 feet. I believe the elevation at the arch is about 6,514 feet. So that's an elevation gain of 631 feet.
We enjoyed our hike. First time being there and we had it to ourselves. Go early in the morning, can get hot!! Overall I would say moderate hike, have to scramble up the rocks to get up underneath, it was worth it.
Prepare for a mostly unshaded hike, bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Some steep grades. Once you get to base, it's careful rock climbing, take your time. Stunning views at arch.
Trail conditions & character
“Pretty nice free trail, the last 100ft was pretty steep girlfriend didn't climb it, I thought about turning around a couple times but made it!”
“Fantastic hike really impressive trails and the views and rock features are breathtaking!”
“The elevation at the parking lot is about 5,883 feet.”
Plan your run at Rifle Arch
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
Running trails near Rifle
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
