FATMAP by Strava

Horsethief Bench

Fruita

Horsethief Bench is the most famous trail in the Kokopelli Trail System, primarily because of its uber-gnarly drop down to the main trail. The views are spectacular as well!

Mountain Biking Extreme

Distance
13 km
Ascent
286 m
Descent
286 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.4 km
High Point
1.5 km
Gradient
Horsethief Bench Map

The Horsethief Bench has acquired its fame due to the uber-technical descent from Mary's down to the main Horsethief Bench Loop. The drop in is highly technical with massive rock rolls, drops, and tricky moves that require advanced to expert-level technical skills... but more than anything, time spent studying the best line.

Description

Once on the Bench itself, there are a few technical portions but the singletrack is much easier, and very flowy in sections. While this trail can get rutted out from the high amount of traffic, the character changes throughout the year due to changing weather, traffic, and ongoing maintenance. Gorgeous views overlooking the Colorado River from atop massive cliffs are definitely photo-worthy.

While the drop in gets all the press, the singletrack itself on Horsethief is well-worth riding, and the views are spectacular. For a longer ride, combine this trail with others in this highly-rated trail network.

Difficulty

Extreme

Very steep, difficult, narrow singletrack with widely variable and unpredictable trail conditions. Unavoidable obstacles could be 15in/38cm tall or greater, and unavoidable obstacles with serious consequences are likely to be present. Obstacles could include big rocks, difficult root sections, drops, jumps, sharp switchbacks, and more. Ideal for expert-level riders.

Extreme Exposure

4 out of 4

Some trail sections are extremely exposed where falling will almost certainly result in serious injury or death.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

in March, April, May, September, October and November

Features

  • Flow
  • Technical
  • Hike a bike
  • Road sections
  • Drops
  • Rock Rolls
  • Rock Slabs
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area