The 5 Best Moab Mountain Bike Trails
Moab, Utah is a world-renowned mountain biking hotspot. Famous for its martian-like landscape, these red rocks attract thousands of riders each year looking to test their skills and fitness. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a weeklong here are in my opinion the 5 best Moab mountain bike trails.
1) The Whole Enchilada
Arguably the most famous trail in Moab, The Whole Enchilada is a must ride. Starting at 10,000 feet in the La Sal Mountains this trail descends 7,851 feet over 28 miles finishing just outside of town at the Colorado River. The best way to ride this trail is to book a shuttle with a local company. The shuttle ride takes roughly an hour and once you have reached the trail you can just focus on the descending. These are the most popular shuttle companies in town. The Whole Enchilada Shuttle Co., Porcupine Shuttle, and Poison Spider Shuttle.
Since The Whole Enchilada starts at a high elevation the best time to ride this trail is in the late summer or early fall as all the snow will be melted, the shuttle companies can advise you on the current state of the trail. This ride requires an intermediate to advanced skillset and fitness so make sure you are prepared before beginning the 28-mile ride.
2) Slickrock Trail
If you’re looking to maximize the amount of time spent riding red rocks Slickrock Trail is for you. Starting in the Sand Flats Recreation Area this 5-mile long trail takes you through a variety of punchy and technical climbs and descents 95% of which are on slick rock. This trail is on the more cross-country side of the spectrum and involves a lot of climbing. Most intermediate riders will have no trouble with the trail and there is a slick rock practice loop to warm up on before embarking on the trail itself.
The best time of the year to ride this trail is in the spring and fall because the slick rock can’t get very hot in the summer. It’s also worth noting that there is a daily fee to access the Sand Flats Recreation Area, which is also a great spot to camp.
3) Captain Ahab
Captain Ahab is a great quick technical loop that is not far from downtown Moab. This trail earns its black ranking from punchy climbs and technical descents with various bonus line options. Round trip this trail is 8 miles long with 1,200 feet of climbing and descent. While it is not a downhill trail there is only one direction in which this trail can be ridden. Like many of the other trails in Moab, it is worth noting that this trail is very physical because of its technicality. Since this trail is at a lower elevation it can be ridden most of the year. However, I would avoid summer riding as the rocks will trap the heat.
4) Mag 7
Short for Magnificent 7 this trail refers to the multiple downhill routes through 7 different trails. This trail is famous for its sustained descent and the views of the town from Gold Bar Rim. While there are multiple options depending on your skill level, a common route is to go Getaway, Bull Run, Great Escape, Gold Bar, Gold Bar Rim, Blue Dot, Gold Bar Rim, to Portal Trail. This is an advanced route that will test both fitness and skill. Prepare to ride at least 25 miles and have enough food and water for at least a 5-hour ride.
Like the Whole Enchilada, this ride can also be shuttled. The Whole Enchilada Shuttle Co., Porcupine Shuttle, and Poison Spider Shuttle run Mag 7 shuttles so it shouldn’t be tough to find a booking. The best time to ride this trail is in the spring and fall. In the winter the top portion of the trail can receive snow so check the trail conditions with a shuttle company before riding it.
5) Portal Trail
The fifth must-ride trail in Moab, Utah is the Portal Trail. This 2-mile trail is an optional part of the Mag 7 ride. It is by far the most difficult and dangerous trail in Moab Utah. While the riding itself is technical the trail follows the edge of a 150+ ft cliff exposing riders to a severe fall danger for the majority of the trail. While risky this is a must-ride trail. The majority of riders hike-and-bike it for their safety and to take in the beautiful views of the Colorado River. This trail is accessible all year and can be accessed alternatively via Poison Spider.
