The best cycling routes in Manti-La Sal National Forest

The Moab Canyon Pathway offers a truly immersive experience into the stunning red rock landscape of Utah, providing a safe and scenic touring cycling route away from highway traffic. As you pedal, you'll be treated to expansive views of canyons and plateaus, with the light changing on the cliffs creating a dynamic visual journey. Keep an eye out for the Courthouse Wash pictograph panel, a fascinating historical site along the way, adding a cultural layer to the natural beauty.

Planning your ride on this 11.3-mile (18.1 km) route is straightforward, as it's accessible year-round, though spring and fall offer ideal weather. The trail is rated easy, with 308 feet (94 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. While mostly flat, be prepared for a noticeable climb between miles 4 and 5.5 if you're heading northwest, which adds a bit of a challenge. Parking is available at various access points, including near the Colorado River bridge, making it easy to start your adventure.

What makes the Moab Canyon Pathway stand out is its crucial role in connecting Moab to iconic destinations like Arches National Park, offering a protected path for cyclists. It's a multi-use trail, popular with runners and hikers too, and even allows Class 1 e-bikes, making it incredibly versatile. This pathway also links up with other trails, such as the Moab Brands Trail System, providing opportunities to extend your ride onto unpaved surfaces if you're looking for more adventure.

The Moab Canyon Pathway to Navajo Rocks offers a unique cycling adventure, transitioning from a smooth, paved path to rugged mountain biking terrain. You'll start on the Moab Canyon Pathway, enjoying views of Arches National Park and red rock canyons, before reaching the Navajo Rocks area. The route covers 37.8 miles (60.8 km) with 1830 feet (558 metres) of elevation gain, making it a difficult ride that takes about 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete.

To tackle this route, plan for a mixed-terrain experience; the initial pathway is great for touring bikes, but the Navajo Rocks section requires a mountain bike due to its slickrock and sandy conditions. Spring and fall are the best seasons to ride, offering pleasant temperatures. Always bring ample water, as the desert climate can be very dry, and be prepared for varied surfaces.

This route is notable for connecting the accessible Moab Canyon Pathway, which was once Old Highway 191, to the challenging Navajo Rocks mountain biking system. It provides a safe, non-motorized way to experience Moab's iconic landscapes, from the Courthouse Wash pictograph panel to the distant La Sal Mountains, showcasing the region's diverse geological features.

This touring cycling route offers a fantastic way to experience Moab's dramatic red rock scenery without the hassle of traffic. You'll start by crossing the impressive Colorado Riverway Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge, then follow a smooth, paved pathway that winds through towering sandstone cliffs and red rock canyons. The path gradually climbs as it leaves the river valley, providing continuous "wow moments" as you cycle through the stunning landscape, often feeling completely immersed in nature away from the highway.

To plan your ride, head to the Colorado Riverway Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge, which serves as the starting point for this loop. Parking is typically available nearby, but it's wise to arrive early, especially during busy times in Moab, to secure a spot. The pathway is multi-use and suitable for various non-motorized vehicles, including Class 1 e-bikes, making it accessible for a wide range of cyclists. Remember to bring ample water, as the desert climate can be demanding, and consider an early morning or late afternoon start to avoid the midday heat.

This moderate 10.6-mile (17.0 km) loop, with 590 feet (180 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, is a highlight for its direct access to Arches National Park's entrance, allowing you to avoid busy roads. It's a perfect option for those seeking a scenic, family-friendly bike trail in Moab, or as a warm-up for more advanced touring cycling options in the region. The route's design, repurposing an old state highway, ensures a safe and enjoyable experience separated from vehicle traffic.

The Moab Canyon Pathway – Bridge over the Colorado River loop from Moab offers a truly immersive cycling experience through the heart of Utah's red rock country. You'll glide along a super smooth blacktop, passing beneath towering sandstone cliffs and enjoying continuous views of the Colorado River, including the impressive Colorado Riverway Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge. This moderate 17.6-mile (28.3 km) touring bicycle route, with its 1071 feet (326 metres) of elevation gain, provides a fantastic way to soak in the iconic Moab scenery, making it a popular choice for cyclists. Expect a rewarding ride that takes around 1 hour and 48 minutes, with plenty of "wow" moments as you navigate the canyon.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the pathway starts conveniently from the north end of Moab, where parking is typically available. This route is a safe, non-motorized alternative to busy highways, allowing you to enjoy the landscape without traffic concerns. While the path is generally smooth, be mindful of potential small gravel sections, especially after weather events. It's an excellent option for those looking for a well-maintained, scenic ride that avoids the hustle and bustle of main roads.

What makes this route particularly notable is its role as a key connector, linking Moab to the entrance of Arches National Park and providing access points for longer rides towards Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. Along the way, you'll encounter unique metal sculptures depicting prospectors and pack mules, adding a touch of local history to the stunning natural features. The pathway's design ensures that even though it parallels Highway 191 in parts, you'll often find yourself in peaceful stretches where the highway is neither visible nor audible, allowing for a truly tranquil cycling adventure.