Near West Bench Trail #501
Always something to look at on this trail
Near West Bench Trail #501
Merging in the sky
Near West Bench Trail #501
Around the corner from here is a fun rocky section to come down.

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Hike Trail

West Bench Trail #501

4.0 (5 Ratings)
A fun, low-traffic, very scenic route at the top of Powderhorn Resort's lifts.
5.3
mi
Distance
393
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
ViewsWildflowers
Access Issues
Still muddy mid-July, it's probably snow covered until June most years. Hunting season would also be questionable.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
5.29mi
Distance
393ft
Elevation Gain
324ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
9,923ft
High Point
9,734ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
With a parking lot right off of Hwy 65 and restrooms, this is a very accessible trail. Signage could be improved, but if you just refer to the Mobile App, you should be fine. There were fewer rocks than expected and more smoother trail than expected. The trail has a few ups and downs, but nothing very steep. and there are a few rooty or rocky spots, but overall it's easy trail and the scenery is beautiful. There are a lot of wildflowers, aspen groves, water crossings, open meadows, and wildlife. There is some mud in places. We came across fresh bear tracks and scat on the trail but never did see the bear. Moose, elk, mountain lion, and others call this area home as well.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
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Contributors
Zack Loucks