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Kokopelli Loops: Wrangler Loop & Mary’s Loop

After Work Adventures | Tuesday, November 7, 2023

After hiking the western ends of Mary’s Loop and the Wrangler Trail last week on Halloween, I returned to the Kokopelli Loops right after work today so I could finish hiking the eastern ends of both of those trails. Even though we just had the Daylight Savings Time change over the weekend and afternoon sunlight would be limited, I figured that this loop would be short enough and I would be able to squeeze it in before sunset. I started my hike near the Kokopelli Trailhead and followed the Wrangler Loop to the point I had hiked to last week and then returned down Mary’s Loop to complete the loop. Even though it was a bit windy this afternoon, the clouds and light were a lot nicer than during my hike last week and I enjoyed the views along the way. In the end, the loop was just over 5.5 miles and I returned to my Jeep shortly before sunset, so the timing was perfect. Here are a couple of photos from the hike…

The eastern end of Mack Ridge as I started my hike up the Wrangler Loop.

Trailhead View

Looking back to the Grand Mesa from the Wrangler Loop as I climbed up onto the bench.

Wrangler Loop View

Wrangler Loop Trail

Wrangler Loop Trail

Looking down to the Kokopelli Trail / Mary’s Loop, which would be my return route.

Kokopelli Trail Below

The warm light was lovely this afternoon.

Wrangler Loop

Wrangler Loop Trail

Mack Ridge East

Mack Ridge East

Mack Ridge

Following Mary’s Loop back to the trailhead.

Kokopelli Trail

Horsethief Bench Overlook

Horsethief Bench Overlook

Rustler’s Bench View

Rustler's Bench View

Rustler’s Bench

Rustler's Bench

A final view over the Grand Valley to the Little Book Cliffs and Grand Mesa shortly before sunset.

Grand Valley Evening

>> Wrangler Loop & Mary’s Loop Photo Gallery

4 Comments

  1. Amanda Oldham
    Amanda Oldham November 8, 2023

    I passed you yesterday on my mountain bike. Didn’t know it was you at the time, but I follow you and all your great shots and adventures! I’m a local Fruita adventurer myself! Thanks for inspiring others with what you do!

  2. Tammy
    Tammy November 8, 2023

    Beautiful time of day to hike. Thanks for sharing!

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