McDonald Creek Trailhead

About

The McDonald Creek Trailhead in Mack, Colorado, is a moderate hike through a desert canyon that follows the creek down to the Colorado River. The primary draw is the collection of rock art sites visible along the streambed. The trail is located within the McDonald Creek Cultural Resource Area, where Fremont Indians lived approximately 1,000 years ago. Access is via a dirt road off I-70 west of Grand Junction. The area is a day-use zone open to foot traffic only, with camping and campfires prohibited. Hikers should stay on the trail to view the rock art, as leaving the trail is discouraged to preserve the fragile canyon. Thick vegetation can make reaching the river itself difficult. The trail is suitable for fall hiking, typically accessed between September and November.