Anyone crossing a bridge at a Colorado trailhead recently had a pretty good reason to stop. A rattlesnake was hanging out on the bridge, directly in the path of anyone trying to get across.
The snake was found at Big Easy Trailhead in Clear Creek Canyon Park near Golden. Jefferson County Animal Control Officer Moore came to move it away from the busy area.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office shared a video of the relocation on Sept. 4 for National Wildlife Day. The department said the snake was taken to a more suitable spot where it would not create a “trail traffic jam.”
Big Easy Trailhead provides access to the Clear Creek Trail. According to Jefferson County, the paved trail runs along the creek between steep canyon walls. The trailhead also has picnic areas and accessible fishing piers.
Officer Moore Moved the Snake Away From the Bridge
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The sheriff’s office didn’t say exactly when the snake was found or identify its species. It simply thanked Officer Moore for keeping both visitors and the animal safe in the post.
The department also reminded anyone who encounters wildlife to give it plenty of space.
Rattlesnakes Sometimes Rest on Paved Trails
Finding a rattlesnake on a trail is not unusual. Colorado Parks and Wildlife says the snakes often use pavement and other hard surfaces to warm themselves, especially during the cooler days of spring and fall.
Rattlesnakes usually prefer to avoid people. Their coloring helps them blend into their surroundings, which also makes them easy to miss until someone gets too close.
Give the Snake at Least Five Feet
If you hear a rattlesnake but cannot see it, Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommends stopping until you figure out where the sound is coming from. Moving too quickly could accidentally take you closer to the snake.
Once you see it, slowly move away and leave at least five feet of space. Visitors should never try to catch, kill or move a rattlesnake themselves. If a rattlesnake bites you, call 911 immediately.