Slickrock Moab Bike Trail

The Slickrock Bike Trail is only 12 miles long and can prove absolutely exasperating. Rarely do you leave your easiest gears and "spin" at an easy cadence. Inasmuch, bikers should allow 4 hours to ride the entire loop; more if side routes are explored. Carry more water than usual, because the warm, dry weather and physical exertion can cause dehydration quickly. First time "rockers" might consider following the 2.3 mile Practice Loop before tackling the entire trail. Although no less difficult than the real thing, the Practice Loop allows you to get a feel for the trail without venturing too far from the trailhead. You must pay a small fee to enter the Sand Flats Recreation Area, which includes the Slickrock Bike Trail, whether you drive or ride to the trailhead. This "Pay to Play" policy is a proactive means to protect and rehabilitate the delicate ecosystem that has been impacted upon over the years.

By Gregg Bromka, author of The Mountain Biker's Guide to Utah.

Trailhead

(38.595228, -109.567011)