Difficulty
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Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
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Directions to Trailhead
West Bench Trail
Table of contents
The West Bench Trail is an easy-going, albeit lengthy, hiking route near Mesa Lakes Colorado that will take you across a beautiful woodland landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse a relatively flat trail with some minor changes in elevation, while taking in the beautiful views of aspen groves and meadows. The best time for this hike is either the summer when the meadows will be blanketed with wildflowers, or during the autumn when the colors of the leaves begin to change.
Route Description for West Bench Trail
For beginner and casual hikers that are wanting to experience a longer adventure in the Mesa Lakes area, there is no better route than the West Bench Trail. This lengthy route will allow you to experience over 12.0mi of beautiful woodlands and meadows without the added difficulty of other long trails in the area. Setting out from the trailhead next to the Black Bear Cabin, you will head south across Mesa Creek, before meeting up with the West Bench Trail. Here, you will turn right and follow the trail as it bends to the northwest past the Osborn reservoir. From here, you will continue on along the trail, working your way through wonderfully atmospheric stretches of forest and open meadows, all while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding wildflowers and aspen groves. After passing by a number of small lakes, you will arrive at a junction with FS 44.5/10 Road that marks the terminus of the route. At this point, you will simply turn back and retrace your steps along the trail to return to the starting point of the hike.Getting to the West Bench Trail Trailhead
The starting point for the West Bench Trail can be found next to the Black Bear Cabin at the Jumbo Lake Campground.Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
Year-Round
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
West Bench Trail Elevation Graph
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