Trip Planner: USA / Utah / Moab / Trails / Slickrock Bike Trail

Slickrock Bike Trail, Moab

4.6

#3 of 8 in Trails in Moab

Biking Trail Nature / Park

The Slickrock Trail, located near Moab, Utah (U.S.A.), is a popular mountain biking destination with worldwide fame. This 13mi loop takes intrepid riders over a landscape of "petrified" sand dunes and the eroded remnants of ancient sea beds. The Slickrock Trail is one of the more difficult rides in the Moab area, both technically and cardiovascularly, and is not suitable for novice riders.Part of the Sand Flats Recreation Area, the Slickrock Trail was originally laid out in 1969 by Richard R. Wilson for use by Honda Trail 90s (before the mountain bike was invented), and the area is still open to such recreation today. 4X4 and off-road enthusiasts will find a challenge on the nearby Hell's Revenge Trail, which intersects the Slickrock Trail in several places.The so-called "slickrock" sandstone, which forms the majority of the trail's surface, is not slick at all, but has a surface much like sandpaper. The rubber tires of a mountain bike or off-road motorcycle will grip readily to its surface on all but the steepest hills. The sandpaper texture is notorious for inflicting severe abrasion injuries. The name "slickrock" was given by early settlers of the area because their horses' metal shoes had difficulty gaining traction on the rock's sloping surfaces. The same is true today for cyclists who use shoes with metal cleats while riding the Slickrock Trail. Slickrock also becomes very slick when wet.

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Where to stay in Moab

For affordable accommodations away from tourist crowds, stay outside Moab's busy downtown. Many inns in this area offer free shuttle services to the central part of town, allowing you quick and easy access to Moab's finest shops and restaurants. If you do not plan to spend much time in your room, consider staying at a budget-friendly motel or hostel. For the ultimate in outdoorsy options, campgrounds inside the area's national parks make up what they lack in modern amenities with their panoramic views of the red desert.

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201 reviews

Christina M

I'm a beginner mountain biker, considering this was my first off road. My boyfriend enjoys biking and we had recently acquired mountain bikes, so we found this spot and went for it. The trailhead is e... more »
Justin L

this is truly an mountain bike trail with lots of challenges. be prepared to push your bike up a hill or two but the views and challenge is worth the effort to be able to say you did it. clearly marke... more »
Roe C

Fun area for biking and walking along Slickrock trails.This is Jeep safari area. A perfect place to watch sunset. more »

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