Moab, Utah is arguably the most iconic mountain biking destination in the country. At QuikrStuff, we are lucky enough to be a short drive away from world class trails, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.
One of the best things about the trails in Moab is the range of difficulty. There is everything from family friendly beginner trails, to expert only advanced terrain. Often overlooked is the excellent paved bike path where road bikers can pedal the day away. Moab has a host of local bike shops that can set you up with a rental. We like Poison Spider, Chile Pepper, and Rim Cyclery.
Overlook in the Navajo Rocks area. Photo courtesy @bigshipmediahouse
Our Favorite Trails in Moab:
Captain Ahab
This is my personal favorite, and go-to trail in the Moab area. Located in the Amasa Back trail network, this ride is a trail-building masterclass. If you are an upper intermediate or advanced rider looking for a technical challenge on the climb and the descent, this is the route for you. Intermediate riders will likely have to walk in a spot or two, but it will be worth the endeavor. Advanced riders can find alternate lines and carry speed through technical rock sections to find some great flow.
Stats: 9 Miles (directional loop using Hymasa) and about 1200 feet of climbing and descending.
Mag 7
Mag 7 is a challenging route that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Even though it is a shuttle route, it takes most of a day to ride, and covers very technical terrain. It ends on the infamous Portal trail, the most exposed and dangerous trail in Moab. If you aren’t in great shape and don’t have advanced technical abilities, I’d recommend an alternative ride.
This route starts near the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands, and traverses and descends all the way down to the Colorado River.
If you want an alternative route, starting at the top and riding Bull Run, then using Getaway to get back to the car is a phenomenal loop, and great for intermediate riders.
Stats: 21 Miles, 1,300 feet of climbing and 3,300 feet of descending.
Garret riding an exposed section of Mag 7. Photo courtesy @bigshipmediahouse
Dead Horse State Park
This area offers excellent riding opportunities for beginner – intermediate riders. It is also home to some of the best views in the area, sitting high atop the Island in the Sky plateau and overlooking the rest of Moab and the La Sals. This is one of the best places for family riding, or your first stop on your vacation to acclimatize to the terrain.
This area is also a great option if you are looking for e-bike riding in Moab.
You can do the whole loop tour, or connect various trails into smaller rides.
Stats: 14 Miles (whole loop), 650 feet of climbing and descending.
The Raptor Route
The Raptor Route is a new series of trails that provides an alternate descent down from the classic Porcupine Rim. It connects Eagle Eye, Hawks Glide, Falcon Flow, and Kestrel Run to form a 10 mile ride that is mostly flowing descending. The riding is mostly intermediate in difficulty, with a few advanced moves in there to keep it interesting.
Charles making a splash! Photo courtesy @bigshipmediahouse
After Your Ride
Enjoy food and drinks from a variety of restaurants and food trucks.
Some of our favorites are The Quesadilla Mobilla, Milt’s (for a burger and shake) and Gilebertos.
Grab a beer at Moab Brewery or the Broken Oar.
Moab is of course home to several National Parks. I bring my camera along on all my trips, and after my rides I’ll take a drive into Arches or Island In the Sky. There are many hiking trails, or easy to access viewpoint opportunities that you won’t want to miss. My favorites are Grand View Point, Devil’s Garden, and the Needles Overlook.
Grand View Point, Island In The Sky. Photo courtesy @bigshipmediahouse
