The best gravel rides in Dixie National Forest

The Daves Hollow Loop offers a scenic gravel biking experience through the Dixie National Forest, winding through beautiful ponderosa pine forests and open meadows. You'll ride on a largely unpaved doubletrack dirt road, which can become muddy and rutted after rain, particularly past the old watering troughs. Keep an eye out for an osprey family nesting in the trees, especially when traveling south towards Tropic Reservoir, adding a touch of wildlife viewing to your ride.

This 10.1-mile (16.2 km) route, with 512 feet (156 metres) of elevation gain, is rated as difficult and typically takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes. It's easily accessible directly from Ruby's Inn guest rooms and RV/campground sites, making it a convenient option for those staying nearby. Always check trail conditions, especially after rain, and note the spring along Dave's Hollow for water refills.

The Daves Hollow Loop is notable for its historical interest, traversing an old sheep herding area from the late 1800s, complete with 120-year-old dug-out trees that once served as watering troughs. It's also part of the Great Western Trail - Utah and connects with the Bryce Canyon Multi-use Path, offering a versatile and well-maintained path that's even groomed for cross-country skiing in winter.

The Navajo Lake Loop Trail offers a unique gravel biking adventure, circling the beautiful Navajo Lake through diverse terrain. You'll ride through cool pine, fir, and aspen forests, encountering sections of packed dirt and singletrack. A distinctive feature is navigating ancient lava fields on the eastern side, where the trail can be bumpy with "toothed boulders" and broken lava chunks, providing a memorable experience for those seeking natural features on Navajo Lake gravel biking routes.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is generally open from late June through September, providing a high-altitude escape from summer heat. No permits or fees are typically needed for day use, and leashed dogs are welcome. Given its popularity, arriving early for parking is advisable, and always carry enough water for this 7.6-mile (12.2 km) loop.

This difficult route, with 272 feet (83 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 59 minutes, is notable for its unique geology, as the lake itself was formed by an ancient lava flow. It also connects to other trails like the Virgin River Rim Trail, offering options for extended rides. The high altitude, around 9,100 feet, adds an extra layer of challenge and makes it a cool destination.

The North View Overlook – Sidney Peaks loop from Brian Head is a demanding gravel biking route that offers a true high-country experience. You'll navigate a mix of paved roads, graded gravel, and sections of loose, rocky singletrack, all while climbing to elevations over 9,000 feet. The views are a constant reward, with sweeping vistas from Brian Head Peak and the impressive geologic amphitheater at North View Overlook, making the challenging 21.1-mile (33.9 km) distance and 2483 feet (757 metres) of elevation gain well worth the effort.

This difficult loop, typically taking around 2 hours and 47 minutes, is best tackled by experienced riders with good fitness. The high altitude means your lungs will get a workout, and some parts of the Sidney Peaks trail can be quite technical with loose rocks. The best time to ride is often in the fall for stunning autumn colors, but always check for seasonal closures or conditions, as snow can impact high-elevation access.

What makes this route stand out is its combination of diverse terrain and breathtaking, continuous views of the southern Utah landscape. It's a genuine mixed-terrain adventure that connects the iconic Brian Head Peak with the scenic Sidney Peak rock outcropping, offering a unique perspective on the Dixie National Forest and Cedar Breaks National Monument. This loop is a prime example of the challenging and rewarding gravel biking trails Brian Head has to offer.

Embark on a demanding gravel biking journey through the heart of Utah's stunning red rock country with the Scenic Byway 12 – Escalante Petrified Forest loop. This route plunges you into a world of vibrant sandstone cliffs and high mesas, offering panoramic views across the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. You'll navigate a challenging mix of paved and gravel surfaces, winding past ancient petrified wood formations near the State Park and through diverse desert landscapes. It's a ride that promises geological marvels and a sense of remote adventure.

This difficult 42.1-mile (67.8 km) gravel biking loop, with its substantial 3690 feet (1125 metres) of elevation gain, is best suited for riders with very good fitness and advanced skills. Expect to spend around 4 hours and 34 minutes on the saddle, tackling strenuous climbs and descents. The route begins at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, so plan for parking there and ensure you carry all necessary supplies, as services are scarce in this remote area.

What makes this route truly stand out is its integration of the iconic All-American Road Scenic Byway 12, renowned for its unparalleled beauty, with the rugged backcountry of the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. Beyond the challenging ride, you'll be cycling through a landscape rich in geological history, with the vibrant petrified wood at the State Park offering a unique starting point. This is a top-rated gravel biking experience for those seeking both a physical test and breathtaking scenery.