The best MTB trails in Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness
3.3
(3)
253
riders
26
rides
Mountain bike trails in Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness are primarily found within the encompassing Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, characterized by striking Jurassic-age Navajo Sandstone formations. The terrain features red and white sandstone cliffs, rounded domes, and numerous small canyons. Riders can expect routes winding through desert shrubs like Utah agave and scrub oak, with higher elevations offering pinyon pine and Utah juniper. The area provides diverse landscapes for mountain biking, despite restrictions within the designated wilderness.
Best mountain bike trails…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
39
riders
26.8km
02:21
280m
280m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
1
riders
5.58km
00:31
90m
90m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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40
riders
33.5km
03:00
430m
430m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
10
riders
13.1km
01:13
190m
190m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
8
riders
16.3km
01:13
150m
150m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
A reservoir used as a local recreation area. You can kayak, jet ski, or simply swim. The water is very clear, and the entrance fee is $25 per car for people outside of Utah.
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Quail Creek Reservoir sits in Quail Creek State Park and has some of the warmest water in the state. With the long warm weather season it's very popular with water sport and fisherman.
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Leeds Reef trail is a relatively easy doubletrack and wide singletrack trail. It makes for a great loop when combined with White Reef trail and that combination can be ridden in either direction. Leeds Reef Trail offers some great scenery, a historic farm (at the beginning) and a movie set from the 1959 movie "They Came to Cordura".
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Harrisburg was a small town located north of the Quail Creek Reservoir, until floods displaced its inhabitants and it became a ghost town. Several houses remain; one house has no roof anymore, is completely abandoned, and is worth seeing.
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Even though the trail is not always clearly marked, the area is made of slick rocks and sand, making it really fun to ride, even off track.
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This is an easy and fun single track without too much climbing, going from Leeds to Washington.
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Quail Creek is a 600-acre reservoir. This beach offers a great view of the hills on the other side of the reservoir where mountain bikers will find several tracks. There also are informative boards about the park.
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Right outside of the parking lot, you will start to see red rock cliffs and building ruins. This continues along several sections of the Prospector trail, with views of Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness and Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness in the background.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mountain bike directly within the Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness?
No, mountain biking is generally prohibited within the designated Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness boundaries. However, the broader Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, which encompasses the wilderness, offers numerous mountain biking opportunities.
How many mountain bike trails are available in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, near Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness?
There are over 25 mountain bike trails available in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, offering a variety of experiences for riders. These routes are primarily found outside the designated wilderness boundaries.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails near Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness?
You can expect diverse terrain characterized by striking Jurassic-age Navajo Sandstone formations. Trails wind through red and white sandstone cliffs, rounded domes, and numerous small canyons. The landscape features desert shrubs like Utah agave and scrub oak, with higher elevations offering pinyon pine and Utah juniper.
Are there trails suitable for beginners or families in the area?
Yes, the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers trails suitable for various skill levels. While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are at least two easy trails available, which can be a good starting point for beginners or families looking for a less challenging ride.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see while mountain biking?
The area is rich in geological wonders, including spectacular checkerboard sandstone formations and small slot canyons. You'll also encounter red and white sandstone cliffs and can enjoy outstanding views of the red rock high country. In lower sections, historical pioneer aqueducts and tunnels cut through the Navajo sandstone are visible.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking near Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness?
The region experiences arid Mojave Desert conditions. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for mountain biking, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and potential for winter cold. During spring runoff or heavy rains, some washes might have temporary water flows.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area?
Yes, there are several loop trails available. For example, the White Reef loop is a moderate 3.5-mile path, and the Prospector Trail loop from Harrisburg offers a longer, more challenging 20.8-mile ride.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in this region?
The mountain biking routes in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars from over 12 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique sandstone landscape and the diverse desert ecosystems encountered along the trails.
Are there any specific permits or regulations I should be aware of for mountain biking?
While mountain biking is prohibited within the designated wilderness, the surrounding Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). It's always advisable to check the latest regulations and any potential permit requirements for specific trails or activities on the official BLM website: blm.gov.
Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails?
Regulations regarding dogs can vary within the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. It's best to check with the Bureau of Land Management directly or look for specific signage at trailheads to confirm if dogs are permitted on the trails you plan to ride and if leash laws apply.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 12 difficult-rated trails in the area. An example is the Leeds Reef Trail loop from Harrisburg, which offers a substantial climb and descent over its 8-mile distance.
Where can I find parking for mountain biking access?
Specific parking information varies by trailhead within the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. Many popular trailheads, such as those for the Prospector Trail or White Reef Loop, typically have designated parking areas. It's recommended to check individual route descriptions on komoot or local BLM resources for precise parking locations.
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