McCarty Bench

Overview: Located in the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area & Dominguez Canyons Wilderness Area, this is a moderate out-and-back, totaling 4-6 miles with up to 1,000 feet elevation gain. The McCarty trail offers an abundance of solitude and natural beauty.  The trail composition is similar to the Grand Staircase-Escalante region in Utah – and contains Pinyon Pines, Juniper and smaller cacti.  From the first bench and then at the level mesa top, one has outstanding views of the Grand Mesa, West Elks, The Raggeds, The Ruby’s (above Crested Butte) and San Juan Mountains to the south. The hike is within the Dominguez Canyon Wilderness.  A wilderness designation is the highest protection for public lands – only hikers and horseback riders are allowed along this hike.  As a result, only 12 people are allowed to hike as a group at any one time.

Trail Description: Hiked as an out-and-back you choose your own distance.

Difficulty:

What to bring: Good boots, lots of water, sunscreen, extra layers, hiking pools, snacks, and lunch.

How to get to the trailhead: