Ventana Natural Arch

Ventana Natural Arch is different from many of the others you’ll find scattered around Colorado. Rather than being formed from uplifted sandstone as most arches are, the Ventana Arch formed within a magma intrusion called a volcanic dike.

Lava from the Summer Coon volcanic complex intruded into cracks in the surrounding alluvial and volcanic deposits about 30 million years ago. Parts of the magma cooled at different rates and separated from the rest of the wall, and when the surrounding deposits eroded away, the inner part of the arch collapsed, leaving a hole in the dike. The end result was a 40-foot-tall, 30-foot-wide arch.

A steep hike—more of a scramble, really—leads to the arch. The scramble is rewarded with views across the San Luis Valley to the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. The arch itself, however, is difficult to see from any direction except directly in front of or behind it.

The arch is a sacred site for the Jicarilla Apache and Ute tribes and is still used for ceremonies.

Getting Here

The arch is about 11 miles northwest of Del Norte, Colorado, on Forest Service Road A23. The road is rough and a high clearance vehicle is advised but not required. Signs in the area point to the arch. When hiking to the arch, wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Caution is warranted when climbing to the arch and when descending. Loose rock requires caution and stable footing.

To get to the Arch from Monte Vista – head north out of Monte Vista on Highway 285 for 18 miles to County Road G. Turn left and go west to the “Y” just past the La Garita Store. Take the dirt road south and follow the signs to the Natural Arch. Make sure you bring your camera to snap photos of the massive arch and the surrounding volcanic remains.

Nearby Sights

Other sights in the Penitente Canyon area include numerous petroglyphs, hikes, rock climbing, a campground, and a nifty Trading Post serving the best burgers in the San Luis Valley. The closest real town is Del Norte, which offers a small amount of lodging, shopping, and dining, including a microbrewery, Three Barrel Brewing.