Mountain Biking in Moab: Trails for All Skill Levels and Rentals

Moab, Utah, is a world-renowned destination for mountain biking, offering a wide variety of trails for every skill level, from beginner to expert. The area’s unique red rock landscapes, challenging terrain, and stunning views make Moab a bucket-list destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned rider looking for a thrilling challenge, Moab has something for everyone.

Mountain biking Moab

Beginner Trails: Perfect for First-Time Riders

If you’re new to mountain biking or looking for an easy ride, Moab offers several beginner-friendly trails with smooth surfaces and relatively flat terrain. These trails allow riders to experience the beauty of Moab’s iconic landscapes without the difficulty of steep ascents or technical challenges.

  1. Bar M Loop
    • Access Point: Located off Highway 191, just north of Moab.
    • Length: 7 miles (approximately).
    • Description: The Bar M Loop is a classic beginner trail, an easy ride with some beautiful views. The terrain is mostly smooth with a few mild climbs, making it perfect for riders who want to enjoy Moab’s desert without too much difficulty.
  2. Moab Brands Trail System
    • Access Point: From the entrance at the end of Kane Creek Boulevard.
    • Length: Varies (up to 6 miles for beginner loops).
    • Description: The Moab Brands Trail System features multiple interconnected loops that range in difficulty. The Klonzo Beginner Loop is an excellent starting point, offering a relatively flat and scenic ride. Riders will encounter some easy-to-navigate switchbacks and wide paths, making this a great first trail for beginners.
  3. Dead Horse Point State Park (Canyon Rim Trail)
    • Access Point: Entrance to Dead Horse Point State Park.
    • Length: 5 miles.
    • Description: For a stunning beginner trail with amazing views, the Canyon Rim Trail at Dead Horse Point State Park is a must-ride. The trail is relatively flat, with incredible vistas of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. The terrain is mostly smooth, making it accessible for beginner bikers.

Intermediate Trails: A Little More Challenge

For those with some experience who are ready to take on slightly more challenging terrain, Moab has a variety of intermediate trails. These trails feature more varied terrain, including moderate climbs, technical descents, and some rocky sections. They provide an opportunity to push your skills and explore more of Moab’s spectacular scenery.

  1. The Whole Enchilada (Upper Section)
    • Access Point: Starts at the top of the La Sal Mountains (accessible from the Geyser Pass Road).
    • Length: 9 miles (for the upper section).
    • Description: While the Whole Enchilada is known for its expert-level sections, the upper part of the trail offers an excellent intermediate challenge. Riders will face some technical sections, switchbacks, and short climbs, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Moab and the surrounding desert.
  2. Amasa Back
    • Access Point: Off Kane Creek Boulevard.
    • Length: 5.5 miles.
    • Description: The Amasa Back trail is a rugged intermediate trail known for its stunning desert scenery. Riders will encounter rock gardens, moderate climbs, and technical features like ledges and loose rock. It’s perfect for intermediate riders looking for a moderate challenge in the desert.
  3. Captain Ahab
    • Access Point: From the Klondike Bluffs trailhead.
    • Length: 4 miles.
    • Description: Captain Ahab is a fun, moderately technical trail, featuring rock gardens, drop-offs, and narrow ridgelines. It’s a great ride for intermediate riders who are comfortable with technical terrain, but not quite ready for expert-level trails.

Expert Trails: Thrilling Challenges

Moab is famous for its challenging, technical mountain biking trails that test even the most experienced riders. These trails feature steep climbs, rock gardens, technical descents, and narrow ridgelines. They are for experienced bikers who are comfortable with more challenging terrain and have solid technical skills.

  1. The Whole Enchilada (Lower Section)
    • Access Point: Starts at Geyser Pass Road, and continues down to Kane Creek Boulevard.
    • Length: 26 miles (full trail, but often done in sections).
    • Description: The Whole Enchilada is one of Moab’s most iconic and challenging trails. The lower section includes technical descents, tight turns, and steep drops. This trail is an adrenaline-pumping ride and an absolute must for expert bikers who want to test their skills on one of the most thrilling rides in Moab.
  1. Porcupine Rim
    • Access Point: Off the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (Hwy 128).
    • Length: 14 miles.
    • Description: The Porcupine Rim trail is a true test of skill and endurance. Riders will face sharp drop-offs, loose gravel, technical rock gardens, and a few tricky climbs. The trail offers amazing views of the Colorado River and is best suited for experienced riders with advanced technical abilities.
Moab Biking

2. Slickrock Trail

    • Access Point: Located at the Slickrock Bike Trailhead off Sand Flats Road.
    • Length: 10.5 miles.
    • Description: Slickrock is one of the most famous trails in Moab, offering a challenging ride with unique terrain. The trail’s signature feature is the smooth, sandstone rock surfaces, which create a slick, technical challenge. Riders will encounter steep climbs, descents, and technical maneuvers that demand precise control and confidence.

Mountain Bike Rentals in Moab

If you don’t have your own bike, no worries! Moab has several rental shops that provide high-quality mountain bikes for all skill levels. Rentals typically include bikes from top brands such as Specialized, Trek, and Santa Cruz, and you can choose from hardtail or full-suspension bikes, depending on the trails you plan to ride.

  • Moab Bike Shop – Offers a wide selection of mountain bikes for rent, including high-performance bikes for expert riders.
  • Kokopelli Bike Shop – Known for providing excellent customer service and a diverse selection of bikes.
  • Chile Pepper Bike Shop – Specializes in mountain bikes and accessories, with options for all experience levels.

Rental Costs: Expect to pay around $50–$100 per day for a standard mountain bike, and prices may go higher for high-end or full-suspension bikes. Some shops offer discounts for multi-day rentals.

Guided Mountain Bike Tours

For those who want to explore the best of Moab’s mountain biking trails with an expert, several companies offer guided tours. These tours are perfect for riders who are new to the area or looking for a more relaxed experience while still getting a chance to tackle challenging trails.

  • Moab Desert Adventures – Offers guided mountain biking tours that can be tailored to different skill levels. They provide an informative and fun way to explore Moab’s landscapes.
  • Kokopelli Bike Tours – Specializes in guided tours through some of the most iconic trails in Moab. They offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day tours for all skill levels.
  • Red Desert Adventures – Provides guided mountain biking tours that focus on the unique geological features of Moab, making them ideal for those who want to combine biking with education about the area’s natural history.