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It doesn't get much better than this scenic desert cruise over the Colorado River.


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Map Key

3.8

Miles

6.2

KM

Loop

4,794' 1,461 m

High

4,504' 1,373 m

Low

447' 136 m

Up

447' 136 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (3°)

27%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Views

Description

From the junction with Mary's Loop, hike about 100 yards down to the bench. It's large drop after large drop, with ledges, boulders, and a few slots thrown in to keep things complicated. Frequented by mountain bikers, if you get a chance to watch someone ride down, cheer them on!

Once down on the bench, hike the loop clockwise. Around the first corner, you'll come to a slickrock-like drop onto a sandy floor. The trail then meets the edge of the bench overlooking the river with several incredible viewpoints, a few small rock ledges, and then pokes in and out of small side canyons.

Once you turn in, away from the benches edge, you'll come to many rock ledges. Soon, this trail becomes much easier. You'll leave the rock behind and work your way through grassy terrain on smooth dirt singletrack, along a huge rock wall. Finish with a gentle climb until you return to the intense entrance section.

Contacts

Shared By:

Nicholas Shannon

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 4 votes

#8215

Overall
  4.5 from 4 votes
5 Star
50%
4 Star
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3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
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Trail Rankings

#638

in Colorado

#8,215

Overall
6 Views Last Month
1,188 Since Mar 18, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

0%
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67%
33%
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Photos

Beautiful desert running over the Colorado River on Horsethief Bench. Photo: Michelle Smith. Runner: Jordan Fields
May 2, 2016 near Loma, CO

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