Horsethief Bench via Mary's Loop & Wrangler

The terrain is notably diverse and demanding. It features a challenging initial 'drop-in' from Mary's Loop, which most riders dismount and carry their bikes down due to large drops, ledges, and boulders. Once on the bench, you'll encounter numerous rock ledges, slickrock-like drops onto sandy floors, and technical sections. The trail eventually transitions to smoother, faster singletrack over grassy terrain alongside a large rock wall, offering a mix of technical challenges and flowy sections.

The Horsethief Bench via Mary's Loop & Wrangler trail is located within the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day use of the trails in this area. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) website for the latest regulations and any potential changes before your visit.

While many trails in the area allow dogs, it's crucial to check the specific regulations for the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area and the Kokopelli Trails system. If dogs are permitted, they are typically required to be on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Given the technical nature of this particular trail, it might not be suitable for all dogs.

The best time to ride this trail is typically in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are milder. Summers can be extremely hot, making riding uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Winters can bring snow, making the trail impassable or very difficult. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Access to this trail is typically from the Kokopelli Trailhead near Fruita, Colorado. This trailhead provides parking facilities. From there, you would connect to Mary's Loop to begin the route. Always ensure you park in designated areas.

The trail is extremely scenic, offering amazing views throughout. You'll get incredible red-rock views rising above the Colorado River, especially as the path parallels the river for about 1.5 miles. Keep an eye out for vistas of west Pollock Canyon, Rattlesnake Canyon, and Bull Canyon within the Black Ridge Canyon Wilderness Area. A key feature is the challenging Horsethief Drop-In, and you'll also pass by the Horsethief Bench Trail itself, with a Great view of the Colorado River.

Yes, this route is part of a larger trail system and intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that overlap with the Kokopelli's Trail, Rustler's Loop, Mary's Loop, and Wrangler trails. It also briefly touches on Mary's Cutoff and Marys Wrangler Connector.

It is highly recommended to ride this loop in a clockwise direction. This approach is generally considered the standard and often less demanding way to tackle the various technical sections, especially the infamous drop-in.

Given the trail's difficult rating and technical sections, you should bring plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (including a spare tube, pump, and multi-tool), a first-aid kit, and appropriate protective gear like a helmet and gloves. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also advisable due to sun exposure. A GPS device or a downloaded map is highly recommended as well.

Yes, the broader Kokopelli Trails system near Fruita offers a range of trails for different skill levels. While Horsethief Bench is challenging, you can find easier, more family-friendly options like Rustler's Loop within the same area. It's a good idea to research other trails in the Fruita/Grand Junction area if you're looking for less technical rides.

The trail's uniqueness stems from its combination of extremely technical features and breathtaking scenery. The initial 'drop-in' from Mary's Loop is legendary, requiring most riders to dismount and carry their bikes down a 70-foot, boulder-strewn descent. Beyond this, the bench itself presents numerous rock ledges and slickrock sections that demand advanced riding skills, making it a true test for experienced mountain bikers.