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.