Tempi'po'op Trail Loop

You can access the trail from a couple of main points. The western portion is easily reached from the Anasazi Valley Trailhead. For the eastern, more challenging side, the Tukupetsi Trailhead is your starting point. Both offer parking.

While the overall trail is rated as difficult, the western portion, accessible from the Anasazi Valley Trailhead, is considered more beginner-friendly. It features an easy climb over 1.3 miles to the main petroglyph area and is improved with packed road-base, making it suitable for those new to mountain biking.

The trail offers a varied experience with a mix of two-track and singletrack sections. The western side is smoother with packed road-base, while the eastern side, especially along the Santa Clara River gorge, is more technical, steep, and can be quite rocky. You'll encounter rugged red rock landscapes throughout.

This trail is rich in both natural beauty and history. You'll find numerous accessible Santa Clara River Petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into ancient rock art. There are also remains of an Ancestral Puebloan farmstead. For scenic views, don't miss the panoramic vistas from Land Hill, including the View of Wittwer Canyon, Red Mountains, and Snow Canyon State Park.

The Tempi'po'op Trail Loop is open year-round. However, due to the desert climate of southwestern Utah, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for mountain biking. Summers can be very hot, and winters can be cool, but the trail remains accessible.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the Tempi'po'op Trail Loop. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The Tempi'po'op Trail Loop is located within the Santa Clara River Reserve, managed by the BLM. Typically, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day use of these trails. However, regulations can change, so it's always a good idea to check the official BLM website for the latest information before your visit.

Yes, the Tempi'po'op Trail Loop can be extended by connecting to other trails in the area, allowing for rides ranging from 8 to 18 miles. The route itself also passes through sections of the Tempi'po'op Trail, Enepitsi Trail, Manaster Trail, Upper Graveyard Trail, Farmstead Loop, Fishhook Trail, East 800 South, Lower Graveyard Trail, Black Brush Trail, U'Waiv Trail, and Tava'atsi Trail.

The western portion, starting from the Anasazi Valley Trailhead, is considered easier and more beginner-friendly. In contrast, the eastern side, particularly from the Tukupetsi Trailhead, is more challenging and semi-technical. It features steep, bumpy, and rocky sections that follow the Santa Clara River gorge, making it more suitable for experienced riders.

Given the desert environment and varied terrain, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) is also essential. A helmet, appropriate mountain biking gear, a repair kit, and a map or GPS device are highly recommended. Consider bringing sturdy tires, as some sections can be rocky.

While the western section is generally smooth, the eastern side of the loop can be quite rocky and bumpy. Riders on hardtail bikes might find these sections particularly challenging. Full-suspension bikes may offer a more comfortable and controlled experience on the technical parts of the trail.