Take a Hike: West Bench Trail

Photos by Melanie Wiseman

The Grand Mesa, the largest flattop mountain in the Northern Hemisphere, is terraced with benches of aspen and spruce/fir forests. West Bench Trail rates as the classic Grand Mesa bench hike and one I generally do three times annually. Wildflowers are on full display in the summer, a photographer’s dream. Winter delights those looking for a gorgeous backcountry cross-country ski and snowshoe destination. Fall, however, is my absolute favorite time of year to hike West Bench Trail — especially September and early October. The temperatures are pleasant, the air free of annoying pests and the trail becomes a scene out of the Wizard of Oz. Aspen leaves, loosened by crisp breezes, fall like graceful snowflakes, converting the trail into a golden serpentine pathway. The trail’s landscape is a mix of lakes and streams, volcanic rock fields and meadows to lush forests; watch out for those tree roots.

Lower in elevation than the top of the Mesa, West Bench Trail is slightly easier for those not used to altitude. The trail is not difficult, but is rated moderate for its length and uneven surfaces. For beginners and experienced hikers alike, West Bench trail is a gem everyone (including dogs) can enjoy. Keep leashes handy to respect equestrians, mountain bikers and other hikers with dogs.

Getting There:

From the north side of the Grand Mesa, take exit #49 (Powderhorn/Grand Mesa exit) off I-70. This is Hwy. 65, which takes you through the town of Mesa and past the Powderhorn Ski Area. Continue on a few more miles and park for free at the Jumbo Reservoir parking area.

From the south side of the Grand Mesa, east of Delta off Hwy. 92, take Hwy. 65 north through Cedaredge 21-miles to the Jumbo Reservoir parking area.

The Trail:

West Bench Trail is an out-and-back trail with two length options to pick from. To Powderhorn lift #1, it is 3 miles each way. To Powderhorn lift #2, it is 5.5 miles each way. The elevation change overall is basically zero, because of the trail’s rolling flow. The trail begins at 9,700 feet with an elevation change of just 200 feet, because of the trail’s rolling flow. On the opposite side of the campground, the trail continues to another bridge and spillway off Sunset Reservoir. Traverse the reservoir edge to where the trail splits, and follow the West Bench Trail to the right. The trail will lead you to a road with private cabins; veer right. Between the last two cabins on the left is a West Bench Trail sign leading you down a hill to begin your remote adventure. At the 3-mile mark you will see a Powderhorn ski patrol hut, picnic table and the top of lift #1, offering stunning views. Enjoy a snack or lunch and head back to the trailhead, or continue on to lift #2, another 2.5 miles. In June and July, mosquitoes can be plentiful, so take your bug spray.

Note: I have scared up a couple bears on the second section and wish I’d had a bell on my pack. I was forced to sing all of songs from The Sound of Music out loud (the only songs I knew by heart). The bears took off as soon as they sighted me. Probably my singing.

Note: West Bench Trail is now part of the connector trail between The Plunge Mountain bike trail and Powderhorn Ski Area. Although hikers have the right of way, it’s advisable to step off the trail for bikers.

Originally published in the Fall 2022 issue of Spoke+Blossom.