Mee Canyon Alcove Hike: Hidden Gem In Fruita Colorado

HIKE TO: Mee Canyon Alcove
MILES: 6 mi out and back
TIME: 3:30 - 4 hrs (plus time to explore)
DATE I WENT:  4/26/25
DIFFICULTY: moderate   
ELEVATION GAIN/ LOSS: 1371 ft   
HIKE PERMIT: no 
ENTRANCE FEE/ PARKING: no
LOCATION: Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness near Fruita, CO

Fruita, Colorado hides one of the state’s most spectacular hidden gems that few think to visit: Mee Canyon. This dramatic sandstone canyon in the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness has been on my bucket list for five years, and after visiting this past weekend, I’m questioning why I waited so long.

Just a short drive from the popular Colorado National Monument, Mee Canyon offers adventurous hikers an unforgettable journey to what might be the largest alcove you’ve ever seen — this is your sign to add it to the top of your hiking list.

This geological marvel stands approximately 200 feet wide, 300 feet deep, and 80 feet high, making it the largest alcove in the Colorado Plateau. As I hiked through the diverse ecosystem with its towering sandstone walls, I was reminded of Escalante, but with one major difference: here, you’ll find genuine solitude that’s becoming increasingly rare on Colorado’s trails.

In this guide, I’ll share my experience hiking the 6-mile out-and-back route from the Upper Trailhead to this remarkable alcove, along with everything you need to know to plan your own adventure through this protected wilderness.

Getting to Mee Canyon Upper Trailhead

There are several ways to access the Mee Canyon Alcove and the Mee Canyon Upper Trailhead is the one we took, and what I’d recommend; it’s fun and keeps you engaged throughout the trail.

The journey to the trailhead is part of the adventure and requires some advance planning. Access is via dirt roads that can be challenging but are typically passable in a high-clearance vehicle during dry conditions.

From Fruita, it’s about 22 miles to reach the trailhead and half of it is on a dirt road. Head west on Highway 340 as if you’re going to Colorado National Monument. Turn left onto Kingsview Road and continue for 1.5 miles until you reach 16.5 Road (also known as Black Ridge Road). Turn right onto this dirt road and follow it for approximately 13 miles to the Upper Mee Canyon trailhead parking area.

Important Road Closures:

• Black Ridge Upper Road is open from April 15 – August 15. This is what you’ll need to hike this trail.
• Black Ridge Lower Road is open from August 15 – February 15.
• Both roads are closed from February 15 – April 15.

Black Ridge Road can be a little rough with some sections requiring careful navigation around ruts and rocks. My Ford Bronco Sport managed the drive just fine, but there were definitely some slow-going sections with large dips. 

The small parking area at the Upper Trailhead accommodates about 5-7 vehicles, and there’s a trail register that hikers should sign before setting out.

Important Note: This road can become impassable after rain or snow. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out, especially during spring months when afternoon thunderstorms are common. Cell service is limited in this area, so come prepared with offline maps. I have Verizon and had cell signal for most of the drive and beginning part of the hike, but lost service as I dropped into the canyon.

Hiking Mee Canyon via Upper Black Ridge Road: What to Expect

Trail Overview

Mee Canyon is not your typical hike-it’s a true canyon adventure. The trail is fully exposed to the sun, so come prepared for little to no shade. It’s unmaintained, and you’ll rely on cairns for navigation most of the way. Uniquely, this is a “backwards” hike: you descend into the canyon first and face the climb out on your return. Plan accordingly, especially in hot weather.

This route is best described as a hybrid between hiking and class one canyoneering. No technical gear or ropes are needed, but you’ll need good navigation skills, a willingness to scramble, and a sense of adventure.

The 6-mile round-trip from the Upper Trailhead offers diverse terrain, spectacular views, and a truly rewarding destination: Mee Canyon Alcove.

We started our hike at 9:33 am and it took us 1:51 hrs to reach the alcove. The hike back and out was oddly faster at 1:40 hrs, probably because we stopped less for photos.

The Rim Section (First Mile)

At 6,733 ft, the hike begins at a gate near the trailhead which hikers should be sure to close behind them. The first mile follows an old double jeep track that gradually descends along the canyon rim through pinyon-juniper woodlands. 

This section offers expansive views across the Black Ridge Canyon Wilderness and into the Colorado National Monument. In spring, the area is often dotted with blooming desert wildflowers, adding vibrant color to the landscape.

The Descent (Second Mile)

This is where the real adventure begins. About 40 minutes in, around the 1.75-mile mark, the trail narrows to singletrack and starts its steep descent into the canyon. Here, you’ll navigate a series of switchbacks and benches, hugging the canyon cliffs and scrambling down loose sandstone and dirt. Cairns mark the route, but the trail can be tricky to follow at times. 

Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a GPX track you can download here.

The descent drops roughly 548 feet in elevation rather quickly in 0.84 miles. Take your time-careful footing is essential as the terrain becomes more challenging. I found that moving slowly here made a big difference, especially as the trail became less obvious.

The scenery is spectacular, with the canyon walls displaying dramatic layers of red, orange, and tan sandstone.

Notable Obstacles

As you descend, you’ll encounter three memorable obstacles:

1. Wooden Ladder Through a Hole:
   The first challenge is hiking through a hole in the rock and climbing down a wooden ladder. Don’t worry, the hole is big enough for most adults to fit through just fine. After the ladder, expect a steep descent and for those navigational skills to really kick in—using your hands for balance is helpful.
2. Second Hole or Optional Bypass Above:
   The next obstacle is a smaller hole. If you’re tall, you might prefer to climb above it; otherwise, duck through as I did on the way in (and climbed over on the way back).
3. The Ledge:
   The final obstacle is a two-foot-wide ledge with a 20-foot drop-off. I was a bit nervous at first but it wasn’t as intimidating as I expected. As long as you hug the wall and move carefully, you’ll be fine-but do take it seriously, as a fall here would be dangerous.

Once you pass the ledge, you’re almost at the canyon floor, though there’s still a bit more hiking ahead.

The Canyon Bottom (Mile 2-3)

Once you reach the canyon floor, the environment transforms dramatically. The arid desert scrub gives way to a riparian zone with occasional pools, seasonal streams, and surprising pockets of greenery. We encountered very little water flow during our visit, making the occasional stream crossings easy to navigate but muddy at the same time.

The Alcove (Destination)

3 miles in and 1:51 hour from the start, we reached the massive Mee Canyon Alcove, the highlight of the journey. This enormous sandstone amphitheater measures at least 300 ft deep, carved over millennia by the forces of water and wind. The scale is truly impressive – photos simply don’t do it justice.

Inside the alcove, the acoustics are remarkable, with even whispers carrying clearly across the space. The walls display beautiful desert varnish patterns and, depending on recent weather, you might witness small waterfalls trickling down from above. The natural shelter remains cool even on hot days, making it perfect for a well-earned lunch break.

We spent about 75 minutes at the alcove, admiring its grandeur and enjoying the rare solitude before another hiking group arrived. We explored inside, carefully climbing the loose rock pile in the middle for a peaceful snack break with panoramic views. After exploring about 0.37 miles around the alcove’s interior, we reluctantly began our return journey.

Once you’re done enjoying it all, hike back out the same way you came in. Remember to look for the cairns, and it’s an uphill hike the whole way out. This is truly a place that invites contemplation and a deeper connection with the landscape than what you’ll find on Colorado’s busier trails.

Best Times to Hike Mee Canyon

Based on my experience and local knowledge, Mee Canyon is best hiked during the moderate seasons. It was a high of 70 degrees in the afternoon once we hiked out of the canyon, and a low of high 40s the night before we camped out near the trailhead.

Spring (April-May)

Spring offers comfortable temperatures typically ranging from 60-75°F during daytime hours. The canyon can showcase beautiful wildflower displays (it’s blooming as of 4/26/25). Spring hiking also means you’ll likely encounter flowing seasonal streams and have a higher chance of spotting wildlife. 

My hike in late April provided ideal conditions with mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, but it’s been a dry rain season and there was barely any water in the streambed — just enough to make the trail muddy and annoying to cross, but it’s only for a very short distance. We also saw a unique, colorful lizard on our hike out!

Fall (September-October)

Fall brings stable weather patterns and pleasant temperatures in the desert overall, but this upper trail is closed for access in the Fall. There’s also less chance of encountering afternoon thunderstorms or flash floods during this season.

Seasons to Avoid

Summer (June-August): Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, and there’s minimal shade during much of the hike. The exposed sections can be dangerously hot, and the risk of dehydration is significant. If summer is your only option, start very early (before sunrise) and plan to be off the trail by noon—remember, it’s a backwards hike so the hike out is an incline!

Winter (December-February): The north-facing sections of the trail can hold snow and ice for extended periods, making the descent treacherous. The dirt access road is often impassable after snowfall, adding another layer of difficulty and risk.

Wildlife and Plant Life in Mee Canyon

Mee Canyon showcases the rich biodiversity of the Colorado Plateau. During your hike, you might encounter:

Flora

• Desert Wildflowers: Spring brings displays of globe mallow, penstemons, and primroses
• Ancient Junipers: Some of the gnarled juniper trees on the rim are estimated to be over 800 years old
• Riparian Vegetation: The canyon bottom supports cottonwoods, willows, and other water-loving plants
• Cryptobiotic Soil: Watch your step for the delicate black soil crusts that are vital to the desert ecosystem

Fauna

• Desert Bighorn Sheep: Occasionally spotted on the canyon walls
• Raptors: Golden eagles and peregrine falcons nest in the high cliffs
• Reptiles: Various lizards and occasional rattlesnakes (watch your step in warmer months)
• Small Mammals: Desert cottontails, rock squirrels, and if you’re lucky, the elusive ringtail cat

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Nearby Adventures: Rattlesnake Arches

If you’re making a weekend of your visit to the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness, consider adding Rattlesnake Arches to your itinerary. Located in the same general area as Mee Canyon, Rattlesnake Arches boasts the second-largest concentration of natural stone arches outside of Utah’s Arches National Park. A high-clearance 4wd is required to access this trailhead.

The Rattlesnake Arches trail offers another spectacular hiking opportunity through similar terrain but with distinctly different geological features. Look for my detailed guide to hiking Rattlesnake Arches coming soon, where I’ll cover the best routes, seasonal considerations, and photography tips for capturing these magnificent natural formations.

Combining Mee Canyon and Rattlesnake Arches makes for an ideal weekend of hiking in the Fruita area, showcasing two different but equally impressive aspects of the Black Ridge Canyon Wilderness.

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Where to Stay When Exploring Mee Canyon

Camping Options

This area is BLM which means free, primitive camping. Off Black Ridge Road near Mee Canyon, there were two designated dispersed camping sites but these will likely be occupied. Here are some other options:

• James M. Robb Colorado River State Park: Developed campground with amenities in Fruita
• Rabbit Valley Campground: Basic BLM camping area about 15 minutes from the trailhead
• Dispersed Camping: Permitted on BLM land near the trailhead (practice Leave No Trace principles)

During my visit, I camped at a flat turn-off along Black Ridge Upper Road where there was a previous camper, judging by the existing campfire pit. The weather was not as windy as expected and low in the high-40s. We brought our own portable single-burner propane stove to make breakfast with our morning campfire, and left the site just as we found it—with no trash.

Not into dispersed camping? No worries!

Lodging in Fruita, Colorado

Conservation and Responsible Hiking

Mee Canyon is part of the Black Ridge Canyon Wilderness, designated in 2000 to protect its unique ecological and geological features. As visitors, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact:

• Stay on established trails to protect fragile desert soils—while this “trail” isn’t exactly established, it’s clear enough to follow if you stick with the cairns or my GPS track.
• Practice proper human waste disposal (pack it out or bury 6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water sources)
• Pack out all trash (including toilet paper)—even products marketed as “biodegradable” take years to fully decompose, leaving unsightly trail evidence and diminishing the natural experience for future hikers
• Leave rocks, plants, and artifacts as you find them

The increasing popularity of areas like Mee Canyon means that each visitor’s commitment to responsible hiking practices becomes even more important for preserving these special places for future generations.

The Wrap-Up: Mee Canyon Hike in Black Ridge Canyon Wilderness Colorado

Mee Canyon represents the perfect blend of adventure and wilderness. While just a short drive from Fruita, the canyon feels worlds away from civilization, offering the type of solitude and dramatic landscapes that have become increasingly rare in Colorado’s popular hiking destinations.

The challenging nature of the trail, along with the dirt road in, keeps visitor numbers relatively low, preserving the wilderness experience for those willing to put in the effort. For hikers with proper preparation and reasonable experience, Mee Canyon delivers an adventure comparable to more famous destinations like Canyonlands or Grand Staircase-Escalante, but without the crowds.

My day spent exploring Mee Canyon ranks among my favorite hiking desert experiences. The combination of dramatic geology, diverse ecosystems, and the reward of discovering the massive alcove creates a memorable adventure that I highly recommend to anyone seeking to experience the true character of Colorado’s canyon country.

FAQs About Hiking Mee Canyon in Fruita Colorado

Is Mee Canyon suitable for beginners?

This trail is best suited for hikers with moderate experience. The route finding, steep sections, and remote location require some hiking confidence and proper preparation.

Can I bring my dog to Mee Canyon?

Dogs are permitted but not recommended due to the rough terrain, potential for heat stress, and lack of reliable water sources. If you do bring a dog, carry extra water and be prepared to assist them on difficult sections.

How long does the hike take?

Most hikers should plan for 3-5 hours round trip from the Upper Trailhead, allowing time for breaks and exploration of the alcove area.

Is overnight camping permitted in Mee Canyon? 

Yes, backcountry camping is allowed with proper permits from the BLM. There are some suitable sites near the alcove, but remember that carrying water will be necessary.

Are there any fees to hike Mee Canyon? 

Currently, there are no entrance or parking fees, but always check the BLM website for the most current information before your visit. However, you do pass through the kiosk for Colorado National Monument on the way into Black Ridge Canyon Wilderness so I’m not sure if they will try to charge you or not; it was closed when we drove in at night.

How does Mee Canyon compare to nearby Rattlesnake Canyon?

While Rattlesnake Canyon is known for its collection of natural arches, Mee Canyon offers a more dramatic vertical landscape with its massive alcove as the centerpiece. Both require similar access via dirt roads and present comparable hiking challenges, but the Mee Canyon hiking trail is far less maintained than Rattlesnake Canyon trail.

Have you hiked Mee Canyon or are you planning a trip there? I’d love to hear about your experience and conditions in the comments below!

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